PBSO Hurricane Preparedness Tips

Preparedness is essential, and Sheriff Ric Bradshaw and the members of the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office would like to ensure you and your family’s safety during the Hurricane Season.

Below please find information, which will help you and your family become better prepared for any situation Hurricane related. If you need additional information, please refer to the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office website at www.pbso.org and don’t forget to print out an Emergency Door Hanger if you or someone you know will need assistance before or after the storm.

Develop a Family Hurricane Plan

Discuss the types of hazards that could affect your family. Know your home’s vulnerability to storm surge, flooding and wind.

Secure your home (doors and windows).

Locate a SAFE ROOM or the SAFE AREAS in the home for each hurricane hazard.

Determine safe escape routes and meeting places prior to the storm

Have an out-of-state friend as a family contact, so all your family members have a single point of contact.

Make arrangements prior to the storm for pets in case of mandatory evacuation.

Gather all non-emergency phone numbers and discuss the proper use of 911 with all children.

Prepare a Family First Aid Kit and put it in the SAFE ROOM.

Have a battery-operated radio for weather and safety updates.

Prepare a Disaster Supply Kit:
• Water (1 gallon per person for 3 to 7 days)
• Food (3 to 7 day supply for each person) ◦ non-perishable packaged or canned food/juices
◦ foods for infants or elderly individuals
◦ snack foods
◦ non-electric can opener
◦ cooking tools/fuel
◦ paper plates/plastic utensils

• Blankets/Pillows, etc.
• Clothing
• First Aid Kit/Medicines/Prescription Drugs
• Special Items
• Toiletries/Hygiene items/Moisture wipes
• Flashlight/Batteries
• Radio (battery operated)
• Cash
• Keys
• Toys/Books/Games for children
• Important documents (waterproof container: birth certificates, insurance documents, medical records, bank account information, pictures)
• Tools
• Vehicle fuel tanks filled
• Pet care items (If not going to shelter)

Hurricane Watch vs. Hurricane Warning
Know the Difference

Hurricane Watch: Hurricane conditions are a possibility for a specific area usually within 24 to 36 hours.

Hurricane Warning: A Hurricane is expected within 24 hours or less (winds 74 miles per hour or greater, or dangerously high water or rough seas). Begin precautionary actions immediately.

 

Hurricane Watch – What To Do

• Listen to local radio and television stations for up-to-date storm information.
• Prepare to bring inside any lawn furniture, outdoor decorations, trashcans, hanging plants, and anything else that can become a flying object during a storm.
• Cover all windows and doors of your home.
• Fill your car/vehicles with gas.
• Check your Disaster Supply Kit.
• Turn refrigerator/freezer to coldest settings.
• Store drinking water in clean jugs, and bottles.
• Secure boats and trailers.
• Make arrangements for pets.
• Make arrangements for elderly and others with special needs such as those who depend on electrical life support.
• Make arrangements for a shelter if you are in an evacuation area.

Hurricane Warning – What To Do

• Listen to local radio and television stations and listen to the advice of local officials on whether to evacuate or not.
• Complete preparation for storm.
• If you are not advised to evacuate, stay indoors and away from windows.
• Be aware that the calm “eye” of the storm is deceptive; the storm is not over. Stay inside until local officials say it is safe to leave the home.
• Be alert of tornados. Stay indoors, in the center of your home, in a closet or bathroom without windows.
• Stay away from floodwaters.

After the Storm – What To Do

• Listen to local radio and television stations for safety instructions.
• If evacuated, return to home when local officials tell you to.
• Stay away from disaster areas. DO NOT SIGHTSEE!!!
• Obey all curfews and emergency orders that are issued.
• If you must drive, drive with CAUTION!! Lights are down, so use all four-way intersections as a four way stop.
• Advise interested parties that you are safe.
• Call for emergency workers if medical assistance is needed.
• Avoid downed power lines. Assume that they are all live.
• Use flashlights in the dark, not candles.