TROPICAL STORM OR HURRICANE SAFETY

The most important thing to remember about tropical storms and hurricanes is
to take issued watches and warning seriously.  Strong tropical storms and
minimal hurricanes usally cause minor damage, but do present dangerous
situations like falling trees, flying debris, storm surge, and flooding.
Hurricanes the magnitude of Camille or the Galveston Hurricane of 1900 present
catastrophic conditions.

Over the past forty years, millions of people have moved to coastal
communities, partcularly to the coastal areas of Florida.  Many of these
residents have never experienced a major hurricane.  They should be aware of
the dangers of a hurricane, and understand the importance of hurricane watches
and warnings.

HURRICANE SAFETY

The information gathered at the Hurricane Center is not only important in
tracking a hurricane, but is also used to warn the public of the storm's
approach.  Formal advisories are written and issued by the National Hurricane
Center to inform the public of the storm's location, intensity, and movement.
The public is also advised of any precautions to be taken as the storm
approaches.

TROPICAL STORM OR HURRICANE WATCH

When forecasters dertermine that a tropical storm or hurricane may threaten a
coastal area or group of islands within a 24 to 36 hour period, a watch is
issued. If a watch is issued for your area, you will need to follow the safety
rules shown below:

1.  If you live in a coastal area or on an island, make yourself aware of the
nearest shelter or evacuation route.

2.  Be aware of the latest advisories issued by the National Hurricane Center.
    Keep informed of changing weather conditions by watching The Weather
    Channel, your local radio or television stations, or by tuning into your
    local NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) radio station.

3.  Make sure that there is plenty of fuel in your car.  If you are asked to
    evacuate your area, you do not want to lose time waiting in long lines at
    the gas station!

4.  Stock up on canned goods that can easily opened, water and any special
    medications that you must take.

5.  Secure any loose materials found outside your home.

6.  Be sure that you have flashlights, new batteries and a first aid kit
    available.


TROPICAL STORM OR HURRICANE WARNING

When forecasters at the National Hurricane Center determine that tropical storm
or hurricane force winds will affect a coastal area or a group of islands in a
short period of time, they will issue a warning (usually within a 24 hour
period).  It is extremely important that you observe by the following safety
rules:

1.  Follow the instructions of local officials.  Leave the area if you are
    asked to do so.

2.  If you live in a mobile home, go to a Red Cross, Emergency Management or
    Local County approved shelter.

3.  Evacuate coastal areas that may be affected by a storm surge.  Head for
    higher ground immediately!

4.  Fill containers with fresh drinking water.

5.  Turn your refrigerator temperature control to the coldest setting.  This
    will allow your food to keep longer if you lose electricity in your area.

6.  If you are caught in the eye of the hurricane, stay put!  Strong winds and
    heavy rain can return within a matter of minutes!

7.  After the storm passes, be on the lookout for downed power lines,
    especially those that have fallen into water.

8.  A storm surge can drive poisonous snakes from their usual habitats.  Be on
    the lookout for them.

9.  If your electricity has gone out for any length of time, eat canned food to
    avoid food poisoning from spoiled food.

10. Beware of weakened tree limbs or downed power lines.  You can be hurt or
    killed long after the hurricane is gone.

11. Use the telephone only if it is an emergency.


                    AFTER THE TROPICAL STORM OR HURRICANE ENDS

1.  Watch for downed power lines and weak building structures that could cause
    injury or death. Be careful not to drink the water if its been ruined.

2.  Inspect your home for damage and report any utility or power line damage
    that could bring immediate danger to you, your family, or your neighbors.

3.  If you have gone to an inland location or shelter stay there until all
    warnings have been lowered and its safe to return home. For some storms it
    will take a long time for the storm surge to lower especially inlets and
    back bays.

4.  Follow instructions from your county officials on areas that have been
     blocked off.  Don't try to sight see in a devastated area.  You'll only
     get in the way of emergency agencies crews and agencies trying to help.

5.  Assess and report the damage to your insurance carrier to help start
    repairs.

6.  If a major storm like Andrew, or Hugo, be prepared for a long recovery
    time.  You'll want to make arrangements to find living quarters or a
    shelter that you can stay at if your home has been destroyed or heavily
    damaged. It could be months to a year before all gets back to normal.

7.  Volunteer if you wish, to help people where you can that were hit by the
    storm Best to do this through a county agency like the local chapter of The
    American Red Cross.


    Source:  The American Red Cross & NOAA