Learn more  National Hurricane Center  American Red Cross

When is the best time to prepare for a hurricane?

Now.

Don't wait until a storm approaches. No one knows how many storms will form or if Florida will be affected this season.  But, whatever happens, you can help promote your and your family's safety. Figure out in advance what you and your family will do in case a hurricane approaches.  This is especially important if you have elderly or persons with health conditions or disabilities in your family.

While North Shore Medical Center has an extensive emergency plan for hurricanes, please understand that hospitals are not emergency shelters.  Contact agencies such as the American Red Cross or watch local TV to learn about shelters. 

Stay Informed  Hurricane season is June 1 through November 30.  During these months, stay alert to weather and news reports. Statistically, most hurricanes make landfall in the U.S. in September, followed by August and July.

Knowledge Is Key  A "watch" means conditions are favorable for a tropical storm or hurricane to develop within 36 hours. A "warning" means tropical storm or hurricane conditions are expected within 24 hours. The watch and warning system gives you time to plan and evacuate, if necessary. Know if  your area is prone to flooding or storm surge damage after a storm. If your area is low-lying, evacuate before a storm hits. Some coastal areas are subject to mandatory hurricane evacuations. Check with local officials to see if this applies to you.

Prepare Your Family  Make a disaster plan for your family.  Decide where you will go in case of an evacuation. Since hurricanes often change course, have several possible safe locations in mind.

Other Tips  Make a list of important telephone numbers. Have an updated road map in your car. Locate the safest area of your home, if you decide to stay. Plan for pets if you need to evacuate. Not all hurricane shelters take pets.  Contact the American Red Cross to learn more about evacuating with pets.

Pack A Family Disaster Supply Kit  You may want to include:

Medications (list of prescriptions, pharmacy information, prescribing physician)

At least one gallon of water per person for three to seven days

Non-perishable food for three to seven days

Special foods for infants, those on restricted diets and the elderly

Manual can opener

Cooking tools and fuel

Paper plates, napkins, plastic utensils

Bedding including blankets, sleeping bags, pillows

Clothing for several days

First aid kit

Hygiene items such as toilet paper, baby wipes, waterless hand cleanerImportant documents such as insurance policies, social security cards, deeds, wills, proof of residence, drivers license, birth and marriage certificates, etc. in a waterproof, resealable container

Cash and credit cards. (banks and ATMs may not be available following a storm)

Battery operated flashlight, radio, extra batteriesBooks, games and other items to pass the time

When traveling with an infant, plan for special needs. Remember formula, baby food, bottles, wipes, medications and over-the-counter fever reducer.

If you take pets, you'll need food, water, carrier, cage, proof of immunizations, medications and leash.

Get Your House Ready  Tropical storms and hurricanes mean high winds. Consider having storm shutters installed or purchasing pre-cut outdoor plywood at least 1/2 inch thick for each window.C heck trees near your house for diseased or dead limbs, overhanging branches and other possible hazards. Bring in outdoor furniture, plant containers, awnings or other items that can be picked up by high winds.

Get Your Car Ready If a storm is brewing, you may want to keep your car filled with gas. Stations often run out of fuel in an evacuation and can't pump if electricity is out.   Check vital fluids, hoses and belts to make sure your car is in good working order.