Steps for a Hurricane Disaster - Essay Example

Taking care of yourself and your loved ones is always a number one priority. Yet, there are some things that we can’t control, like natural disasters, making it imperative to have a safety plan. One such catastrophic event to prepare for is a hurricane because, with increased global warming and drastic climate changes, they are becoming a more common occurrence. Hurricanes are a scary thought to consider but armed with proper planning and knowledge the risks involved can be greatly minimized. It is essential to have an emergency plan and necessary supplies before the arrival of a hurricane, along with knowing what to do during and after the storm, for this will ensure the health and safety of your loved ones and belongings.

Preparing for a hurricane before it arrives involves making an emergency plan and getting together the important supplies. The first step is to see what your insurance covers and see if any adjustments are needed in the policy. Many valuables, like cars, are damaged so it is best to make sure that all costly belongings are insured. Also, have an evacuation plan and map out the closest escape routes that will take you and your family away from the danger zone. Have emergency family or friend contact numbers and decide beforehand where to go in case of an evacuation. This also involves organizing a list of the absolutely necessary items to take along to avoid confusion and panic when a storm does hit. It is also important to locate the safest room or area of the house, preferably on the lower level, if the need arises to stay inside rather than evacuating.

After a plan has been set up, it is now important to get the supplies and disaster kit ready. Make a list of the items needed such as a first aid kit, non-perishable food items, water, blankets, medication, hand crank-powered radio, batteries and flashlights (Henthorn 2011). It is essential to secure all the important documents in waterproof bags or containers. Make sure to have a sufficient amount of cash at home and do not wait till the last minute to fill up your vehicle with gas. Also, get together plywood or shutters and the required tools to board up windows and doors if hurricane warnings are close. If your budget allows, have a backup generator in case of power outages and electricity failure. Be knowledgeable about any weather changes and continue to listen to the news about updates. This will help you and your family make any necessary adjustments to the plan and gather supplies.

Knowing what to do during a hurricane is just as important as planning for it. If staying inside, seek protection in the safest area of the house and keep yourself and your family away from windows and glass doors. Make sure to turn off all heavy-duty appliances, like refrigerators and microwaves, to minimize damage. Do not go out to check on the hurricane even if it seems calm, because there can still be flying debris and rapidly increasing winds (Henthorn 2011). Throughout the storm continue to communicate with your family in order to engage in normal activity and help with any feelings of fear and panic. Also, keep on listening to the radio to be informed of any changes taking place. If the need arises to evacuate, try to turn off all utilities and appliances, gather only the necessary items and follow the proper evacuation routes. Remember that during a hurricane it is important to stay calm and ensure the safety of your loved ones.

It is equally critical to be precautious after a hurricane because injuries can still be sustained even if the storm has passed. Do not leave the house in order to check on the damage done until a clear sign is given by the authorities. Avoid coming into contact with puddles, loose wires and smashed trees (Henthorn 2011). Try to use your phones for emergency purposes only, reporting broken gas or water pipes, and unstable power lines. If power had to be restored, carefully go about the house checking on food and other items, staying clear of electrical appliances and wires. In the case of an evacuation, return to your homes when the officials have deemed it safe to do so. Read More