Hurricane Prep Guide: Essentials for Safety

Hurricane Preparedness Guide Page 1
Hurricane
Preparedness Guide
Table of Contents
Introduction:......................................................................................................................................2
Terms to know:..................................................................................................................................3
Before Hurricane Season Starts: ..........................................................................................................5
When the storm threatens:.................................................................................................................6
When the stormis approaching:..........................................................................................................6
When you have to evacuate:...............................................................................................................6
During the Storm:...............................................................................................................................7
After the storm:..................................................................................................................................7
Filing Insurance Claims:.......................................................................................................................8
Disaster Supply Kit:.............................................................................................................................8
Pets:................................................................................................................................................13
Considerations:................................................................................................................................14
Aiding the injured:............................................................................................................................15
Miscellaneous Items:........................................................................................................................15
Coping with Disaster:........................................................................................................................16
Preparing your boat for the storm: ....................................................................................................16
Additional Resources and Direct Assistance:.......................................................................................17

Introduction:
HurricaneSeason is from June 1st through November 30th. Hurricanepreparedness is notjustnecessary,but
allows you and your loved ones to maintain peaceof mind duringthis stressful time. The followingis a basic
outlineof what is recommended for hurricanesurvival. This information isa compilation fromthe Federal
Emergency Management Agency, The American Red Cross,The Salvation Army, Florida Division of Emergency
Management and the National Weather Service.
Florida has themost lightningstrikes and thunderstorms than any other state. FEMA states that Americans livein
the most severe weather-prone country on Earth. Each year Americans cope with an average of 10,000
thunderstorms, 5,000 floods,1,000 tornados,an average of two land fallingdeadly hurricanes. Wealso need to
consider all thewinter storms, intense summer heat, high winds,wild fires and other deadly weather impacts.
Almost 90% of all presidentially declared disasters areweather related, leadingto over 500 deaths per year and
nearly $14 billion in damages. The recent natural disasters such as;the tornados in the Southern United States,
the earthquake & tsunami in Japan and floodingin North, Central and South America serves as a reminder that
these catastrophic events can happen anytime/anyplace. Hurricanes allowadequatetime to prepare whereas
these other natural disasters aremuch more sudden.
Many important lessons were learned from HurricaneKatrina and arecontained in this outline. If Tampa was to
take a Hurricanefrom the South straightup Tampa Bay, the storm surge would be tremendous. Many catastrophe
models call for the majority of Pinellas County and South Tampa to be completely submerged. This water would
not stand likeitdid in New Orleans for over a month after the storm because Tampa is above sea level. The water
that is forced up Tampa Bay will eventually recede but not as quickly as other areas in Florida. Tampa Bay creates
a perfect funnel to force a tidal surgeinto our area. It will takesome time for this water to naturally drain back
into The Gulf of Mexico. New Orleans is located in-land fromthe coastwhereas we are situated righton it and
subjectto much faster flowing water. Two to three feet of continuous fastflowingwater can compensate a
building’s foundation. Many pets were lostand families could notlocatetheir loved ones after HurricaneKatrina
because many citizens choseto rideout the storm. One of the most significantlessonswe learned from Katrina is
to evacuate immediately when the order is given. The storm surgewill make that impossibleto rideout the storm.
Havinga plan and the needed provisions on hand will help you survivethis stressful and challengingtime.
Accordingto the seasonal outlook issued by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA’s)
ClimatePrediction Center – a division of the National Weather Service is predictingan abovenormal hurricane
season for 2011 for the Atlantic Basin. They arepredictingwith a 70% likelihood for the six month season 12 to 18
named storms (winds above 39mph) of which 6 to 10 could become hurricanes (winds above74 mph) including:3
to 6 major hurricanes (Category 3,4 or 5 winds above111 mph). The average for our area which is the Atlantic
Basin is 11 named storms, six hurricanesand two major hurricanes. Lastyear the United States was lucky that
most tropical storms and hurricanes weresteered away from our coastlines by wind. The activity for the 2011
hurricaneseason is projected to be consistentwith the more active seasons since1995 butnot as bad as 2004-
2005. In 1995 The Atlantic Basin entered into a High Activity Era. The ocean & atmospheric conditions are in-sync
to generate tropical Storms and hurricanes. The Atlantic Ocean average temperature is 2 degrees Fahrenheit
above normal. Hurricanes thriveon warm water. La Nina is weakening in the Equatorial Pacific Ocean butthe
effects such as reduced wind shear areexpected to continue into hurricaneseason.
The ingredients for a hurricaneincludea pre-existingweather disturbance,warmtropical oceans,moisture,and
relatively lightwinds aloft. If the rightconditions persistlongenough, they can combine to produce the violent
winds,incrediblewaves,torrential rains,and floods weassociatewith this phenomenon. A hurricaneis a type of
tropical cyclonewhich is a generic term for a low pressuresystem that generally forms in the tropics. The cyclone

is accompanied by thunderstorms and in the Northern Hemisphere a counterclockwisecirculation of winds near
the earth’s surface.Tropical cyclones areclassified as thefollowing:
1. Tropical Depression – an organized system of clouds with a defined surface circulation and maximum
sustained winds of 38 mph.
2. Tropical Storm – an organized system of strong thunderstorms with a defined surfacecirculation and
maximum sustained winds of 39-73 mph
3. Hurricane – an intense tropical weather system of strongthunderstorms with a well-defined surface
circulation and maximumsustained winds of 74 mph or higher. Hurricanes arecategorized accordingto
the strength of their winds usingthe Saffir-Simpson HurricaneScale.
The storm surge for our area is much higher than what is stated on the Saffir-Simspson HurricaneScale. When the
winds that form these storms reach 39mph (34 knots), the cyclones aregiven names. Through a vote of the World
Meteorological Organization Region IVSubcommittee, Atlantic cyclonenames areretired usually when hurricanes
resultin substantial damageor death or for other special circumstance. The names for the 2011 Atlantic Basin
Tropical Cyclones areas follows:Arlene, Bret, Cindy, Don, Emily,Franklin,Gert, Harvey, Irene, Jose, Katia,Lee,
Maria,Nate, Ophelia,Philippe,Rina,Sean, Tammy, Vince and Whitney.
Terms to know:
HURRICANE WATCH: Hurricaneconditions are possible within the specified coastal area. Becausehurricane
preparedness activities become difficultoncewinds reach tropical stormforce, the Hurricane Watch is issued 48
hours in advance of the anticipated onset of tropical-storm-force winds.
HURRICANE WARNING: Hurricaneconditions are expected in the specified area of the warning.Because hurricane
preparedness activities become difficultoncewinds reach tropical stormforce, the Hurricane Watch is issued 36
hours in advance of the anticipated onset of tropical-storm-force winds.
TROPICAL STORM WATCHES AND WARNINGS: Although Tropical Storms have lower wind speeds then
Hurricanes,they often bringlife-threatening floodingand dangerous winds. Take these alerts & precautions
seriously!

STORM SURGE: Along the coast,storm surge is often the greatest threat to lifeand property from a hurricane.
HurricaneKatrina (2005) is a primeexampleof the damage and devastation that can be caused by surge. At least
1500 persons losttheir lives duringKatrina and many of those deaths occurred directly,or indirectly,as the result
of storm surge. Storm surge is an abnormal riseof water generated by a storm, over and above the predicted
astronomical tides. Stormsurge should not be confused with storm tide which is defined as the water level rise
due to the combination of storm surge and the astronomical tide. The risein water can causeextreme floodingin
coastal areas particularly when storm surge coincides with normal high tide which results in stormtides reaching
20 feet or greater. In the Gulf of Mexico we experience a semi-diurnal lunartideschedulewhich means we will
have two high tides and two low tides duringa 24 hour period. At certain times of the year our area (Tampa Bay)
will experiencediurnal tides which is onehigh and low tide per 24 hour period due to the nature of the Gulf of
Mexico. The tides for our area run an average of 2-5 feet between high and lowtide. Havingtwo high tides during
most 24 hour periods will givethe hurricanesurge time to coincidewith a high tide. The storm surge is produced
by water pushingtoward the shoreby the force of the winds moving cyclonically around the storm. The storm
surge is a very complex phenomenon becauseit is sensitiveto the slightestchanges in storm intensity,forward
speed, size(radius of maximum winds-RMW), angleof the approach to the coast,central pressure,and the shape
and characteristics of coastal features such as bays and estuaries. Unfortunately,Tampa Bay will actas a funnel
and direct the surge into the heart of Tampa.
Another factor which can impacta storm surge is the width and slopeof the continental shelf. A shallowslope
(Our coastline’s characteristic) will potentially producea greater storm surge than a steep shelf such as the
Atlantic Coast. For example, a category 4 storm hitting our coastwould generate a 20 foot surge where as on the
Atlantic Coastit would only generate a 9 foot surge. Because water weighs approximately 1,700 pounds per cubic
yard,consistently rapidly movingwater of 2-4 feet can compensate a building’s foundation and structural integrity.
Add the poundingaction of the waves and you have a recipe for destruction.
Notable Surge Events:
 HurricaneIke2008 – category 2 – surge of 15-20 feet - $24.9 billion in property damage
 Hurricane Katrina 2005 – surge of 25-28 feet -most devastating hurricane in the history of the
United States $75 billion – 1500 deaths
 HurricaneOpal 1995 –category 3 – storm tide of 24 feet that covered approximately 120 miles of
coast line
 HurricaneHugo 1989 – storm surge of 19.8 feet was recorded
 HurricaneCamille1969 –category 5 – surge of 24 feet and 256 deaths.
Surge Facts for the Gulf Coast Region:
 72% of ports, 27% of major roads, and 9% of rail lines within the Gulf Coast region are at or below 4
feet above sea level.
 A storm surge of 23 feet has the ability to inundate 67% of interstates, 57% of arterials, almost half
of rail miles, 29 airports, and virtually all ports in the Gulf Coast area.
Tornadoes: Hurricanes can producetornadoes that add to the storm’s destructive power. Tornadoes are most
likely to occur in the right-frontquadrantof the hurricanebutcan also be found well away from the center of the
hurricaneembedded in the rain bands. Studies have indicated thatmore than half of land fallinghurricanes
produced at leastone tornado. Hurricane Beulah in 1969 spawned 141 tornadoes!

[Is this needed?]
General tornado tips (non-hurricane):
 Take shelter in an interior hallway on a lower floor,closet or small room
 As a lastresort, safely get under heavy furniture, away from the windows
[What is the title of this paragraph? You are in the “terms to know” section] [Should this be moved to the “Disaster
Supply Kit” section?
It’s best to get out of town before it becomes mandatory, or even recommended. If you wait until the lastminute,
an hour will havepassed before you get out of the building. The storm’s fringe activity will makepreparations
difficult.Traffic will beoutrageous and itis best to be ahead of this to conserve time, fuel and reduce your stress
level. Rushingand leavingatthe lastminute will cause you to make hasty and rushed preparations. This stress is
increased when you get stuck in bumper to bumper traffic for hours as the weather deteriorates. Havinga plan in-
placeand everything pre-packed will reducestress and get you out town quickly. It is importantto develop a
primary plan for evacuation and have a backup plan that considers the possiblepath of the hurricane. Keep in
mind most hotels/motels will fill quickly if thereis a multi-county evacuation. If possible,makearrangements to
stay with the friend or relativewho resides closestto your home and who will not have to evacuate. Discusswith
your intended hostthe details of your Family Evacuation Plan well before the beginningof HurricaneSeason.
When preparingand packingyour DISASTER SUPPLY KIT, choosecarefully becauseyou have a limited amount of
spacein your vehiclefor your supplies,humans and pets. Select products which are lightweight and compact in
size.
Whiledevelopinga Family Disaster Plan discuss thetype of hazards that could affect your family (storm surge,
floodingand wind). Have an out-of-state friend as a family contact, so all your family members have a singlepoint
of contact. Make a Pet Plan and have supplies ready for your pet. Consider special careand needs of babies,
children,the elderly and the ill. Putyour plan in writingand followit.
Topics of discussion for your Family Disaster Plan:
 What to do about power outages?
 How to deal with personal injuries?
 How shut off the water, gas,electricity and where the shutoff arelocated and if any special toolsare
required?
 What to do if you have to evacuate & where to go?
 Where to meet and whom to contact if you get separated?
Before Hurricane SeasonStarts:
 Have a plan in placeand stick to it (determine a safe evacuation route with a backup plan)
 Have your DISASTER SUPPLY KITready to go (make sureyou have fresh batteries and your food & water
supply has not gone bad)
 Have your Pet Plan in place
 Learn the locations of official shelters
 Review your condo-unitowner’s policy (HO-6) with your insuranceagent.

o Discuss the“loss of use limit”and how to access this coverage
o Review your Hurricanedeductible. What percentage is the deductible? Is ita named storm
deductible or for all wind claims? Is ita calendar year deductible?
o Ask about the additional coverages provided by the policy?
o Ask about the debris removal percentage limitin your policy?
o Ask if your policy will providereimbursement for expenses for takingaction to mitigate damage
to your property when the hurricaneis approaching?
o Ask your agent aboutthe claimprocess for your specific condo unitowner’s policy (HO-6)
When the storm threatens:
 You should immediately refill special medications
 Get cash (ATMs may not work for several days after)
 Check your food & water supply and replenish if needed
 Fill your vehicles gas tank and check the oil,battery and coolant. Make sureyou have a sparetire and
aerosol kits thatfix and inflateflats.(Gas stations will nothavepower to run their pumps after the storm)
 If you own a boat, make necessary preparations (knowwhat is required by your insurance company
(photograph the boat as evidence that you did what was required)(You should havea Plan for your boat
and have the extra gear to properly moor/secure it)
 If you own a plane,have it flown out.
 Have your DISASTER SUPPLY KITpacked and ready to go.
When the storm is approaching:
 Move furniture off balcony and store inside(anythingoutsidethat could become a potential missile
should be moved indoors)
 Check your mailbox
 Move vehicles out of flood-prone areas
 Move furniture as far away from the windows as possibleand cover with plastic
 Take everything off your walls and put in a closetand cover with plastic
 Do not leave anythingout that could become a projectile
When you have to evacuate:
FEMA recommends that you should evacuate immediately if directed by local authorities. FEMA states that
high-risebuildings experiencestronger winds at higher elevations and should be evacuated. FEMA also states
areas that aresubject to floodingsuch as near a river or waterway should evacuate.
 Turn off the water and gas to your unit(Check with the Association concerningturningoff the gas)
 Unplug all appliances
 Put your HurricanePlan in-effect and take your DISASTER SUPPLY KIT.
 Inform your family and friends thatyou are evacuatingand where you are going.
 Communication and teamwork is key. Stick together, work together and heed to the instructions of safety
officials.
 Lock and secure your unit.

During the Storm:
 Keep a battery-powered radio with you so you can listen for emergency updates and news reports .
 Stay indoors and stay away from windows.
 Waitfor official word that the storm has passed.
After the storm:
 Don’t return to your flood damaged area before the area is declared to be safe by local officials.
Returning home can be both physically and mentally challenging.
 Stay in contact with your condominiumassociation and property manager. They will beableto inform
you if you can return to your unit. The buildingwill need to properly inspected for flood damage, glass
damage, gas leaks,broken/frayed electrical wires,foundation & structural damage- this may take some
time – so be prepared. These inspections arefor your safety.
 It is not uncommon for high-risebuildingsto suffer great deal of damage due to windows being blown
out. Your unit will notbe habitable. Consequently, the areas around these buildings can bevery
dangerous.
 Turn on the flash lightoutsidebefore entering a structure. The battery may produce a spark that could
ignite leakinggas,if present. (if you smell gas DO NOT ENTER)
 Watch out for animals, especially poisonoussnakes. Usea stick to poke through debris.
 Be wary of wildlifeand other animals.
 Stay off the streets. If you must go out, watch for fallen objects,downed electrical wires;and weakened
walls,bridges,roads,and sidewalks.
 Be aware of slippery floorsand debris insideof your unit.
 Throw out all food and other supplies thatyou suspectmay have become contaminated.
 Open all cabinets –be alertfor objects that may fall
 Disinfectitems that may have been contaminated by raw sewage, bacteria or chemicals.
 Call your insuranceagent. Take pictures of the damages. Keep good records of repairs and cleaning
costs. Inventory your belongings and report any losses. Many condo-unitowners’ policies offer
supplementary provisionsthatwill beof great benefit duringyour recovery. (Review your policy with
your insuranceagentto know what you are entitled to – do this before the storm)
 Be aware of new safety issues created by the disaster. Watch for washed out roads,contaminated
buildings,contaminated water, gas leaks,broken glass,damaged electrical wiring,and slippery floors.
 Inform local authorities abouthealth and safety issues,includingchemical spills,downed power lines,
washed out roads,smolderinginsulation and dead animals.

Filing Insurance Claims:
 Give notice of loss -- letting your insurancecompany know you’ve sustained a loss.
 Show proof of ownership and damage – documentation of what you lostand what it was worth. (video
inventory of all of your possessions)
 Controversy arises when you claimunusual items – jewelry, artwork, furs,antiques – without receipts or
documentation (most policies havesub-limits for jewelry,furs,guns, silverwareand many policies require
artwork, antiques and other big ticket items to be scheduled with appraisals)
 Speak with your agent before hurricaneseason and get an understandingof your insurancecarrier’s claim
process & any special requirements.
Disaster Supply Kit:
The following items shouldbe placedin a DISASTER SUPPLY KIT that is
immediately available: [Has anyone figuredout how much space this disaster kit
would take up?]
INSURANCE& VITAL RECORDS
 Obtain copies of your property, auto, health and lifeinsurancepolicies –know what your deductibles are
and what provisionseach policy provides.
 Inventory home possessions –make a record of your personal property & belongings for insurance
purposes. The most efficientway to do this is to usea video camera and narrate each item in each room.
(Includevideo of the contents of your dressers,closets and bathrooms). Where applicablerecord when
the item was acquired,how much was paid for it and model number.
 Important Documents – Store importantdocuments such as property deeds, insurancepolicies,property
records,wills,businessdocuments,contracts,stocks and bonds in a placeaway from your home such as a
safety depositbox. Make copies and keep in your DISASTER SUPPLY KIT.
 Money – Consider savingmoney in an emergency savings accountthatcan be used in any crisis. Keep a
small amountof cash or traveler’s checks at home in caseof evacuation. A family of four needs
approximately $500 to lasta week if you are stayinghotels (assumingyou prepaid for the hotel room) and
less if stayingwith friends or family.
IMPORTANT FAMILY DOCUMENTS
 Copies of insurancepolicies,policy numbers and insuranceagent’s and carrier’s contactinformation
 Photo IDs, passports,social security cards,voter registration card,immunization records
 Medical records of any family member with special needs or illness
 Bank accountnumbers (have most current bank accountrecords, contactinformation)
 Credit cards (bringmostrecent statement and company contactinformation)
 Inventory of household goods (on video/compact disk)
 Important phone numbers
 Family records (birth,marriage,death certificates)

 Pet vaccination records and copies of licenses
Recommendation: Create a “take box”. The ‘take box” should haveeverything you need to reconstructyour
lifein the event you evacuate and everything is lost. Items to be included in a take box include;Passports,
birth, wedding, adoption, divorce,armed services separation certificates,copies of insurancepolicies,
mortgage, debt & investment information;house, car, boat, planeand recreational vehicletitles and large
purchasereceipts. Scan and burn onto a CD or copy on external hard drive family albums, images of other
keepsakes, pictures,videos, music and documents. Make sure to have original documents. Remember CDs
can malfunction so make several back-ups.
WATER
It is recommended that you should have a three day supply of drinkingwater and one gallon of water per person
per day. A normally activeperson requires atleastone-half gallon of water daily justfor drinking. FEMA suggests
a three day supply whilemost other professionalssuggestenough food and water to lastup to two weeks.
Additionally,in determiningadequate quantities take the followinginto account:
 Individual needs vary,depending on age, physical condition,activity,diet,and climate.
 Children,nursingmothers, and ill peoplerequiremore water.
 Bringextra water for your pets.
 Very hot temperatures can double the amount of water needed.
 A medical emergency might require additional water.
 Water will beneed for washinghands,flushingtoilets and bathing
It is recommended that you purchasecommercially bottled water. Keep water in original bottleand do not open it
until you use it. Observe the expiration date.
If you areconsideringfillingyour own bottles of water pleasefollowthe Federal Emergency Management Agency’s
(FEMA’s) guidelines for what types of containers to use, how to fill thecontainers and how to treat the water. This
information can be found on the FEMA website (www.fema.gov) under HurricanePreparedness and the sub-
heading“Water”.
[Legal issueof tellingpeople how to do this – hot water and electricity areinvolved!!]
Recognize that your hot water heater contains 50 to 75 gallons of fresh drinkingwater. Newer construction may
have instantheating elements in lieu of a water heater. Followthe manufacturer’s directions to remove any
sediment that has collected at the bottom of the tank [Does this impede the family’s ability to use the water?] If
not I would not be the one to recommend it due to accidents thatmight occur without a hurricanein sight. Water
damage, tore the faucet off because itwas rusted out, etc. ] (Do this well before the storm and turn off the circuit
breaker to the hot water heater and allowthe HOT water to cool) Attach a garden hose to the drain valveand run
the water out of the tank. To get the water out of the tank after a storm you will need to open the plumbing
system by opening any hot water faucet. This will releasethe vacuumin the tank. You must turn off the electrical
breaker to the hot water heater to prevent damage if power is restored.
FOOD

It is recommended that you store at leasta three-day supply of non-perishablefood. Some experts recommend
havingenough food supplies to lasttwo weeks. Select foods that requireno refrigeration,preparation or cooking
and littleor no water. If you must heat food, pack cans of STERNO or a portable compact campingstove. STERNO
are small cansof cookingfuel and can be purchased atthe grocery store. These cans arethe same heatingsources
used by many buffets to keep the food warm. Consider food items that arecompact and lightweight. Avoid foods
that make you thirsty. Choose salt-freecrackers,wholegrain cereals,and canned foods with a high liquid content.
Includea manual can opener and disposableeatingutensils in your DISASTER SUPPLY KIT. Rotate your food
supply.Use foods before they go bad, and replacethem with fresh supplies,dated in marker.
NUTRITION TIPS
 In a crisis,itwill bevital thatyou maintain your strength
 Eat at leastone well balanced meal every day
 Drink enough liquid to enable your body to function properl y (minimum of 2 quarts per day)
 Take in enough caloriesto enable you to do any necessary work
 Includevitamin,mineral and protein supplements to assureadequate nutrition
Include a selection of the following foods in your DISASTER SUPPLY KIT:
 Ready-to-eat canned meats, fruits
and vegetables
 Canned juices,milk,soup (if
powered, store extra water)
 Staples—sugar,salt,pepper
 High energy foods – peanut butter,
crackers,granola bars,trail mix,
energy bars
 VITAMINS (very important)
 Foods for infants,elderly persons
or persons with special dietary
needs (plan ahead for these
special needs)
 Have powdered Gatorade or
similar energy drinks. The
powdered form is much lighter
than prepackaged bottles and can
make a much larger quantity.
(These energy drinks can help in
situations of dehydration and
other medical conditions.)
 Comfort/stress foods—cookies,
hard candy, sweetened cereals,
lollipops,instantcoffee and tea
bags
FIRST AID KIT
Assemble or purchasea firstaid kitthat includes the followingitems:
 Sterile adhesivebandages in assorted sizes
(Band-Aids)
 Basic manual on administering first aid
(availablefrom your local American Red
Cross chapter)
 2-Inch and 4-inch sterilegauze pads (4-6 in
each size)
 Hypoallergenic adhesivetape
 Triangular bandages (3)
 2-inch and 4-inch sterileroller bandages (3
rolls in each size)
 Scissors
 Tweezers
 Needle
 Moistened towelettes
 Antiseptic
 Thermometer
 Tongue blades (2)
 Tube of petroleum jelly or other lubricant
 Assorted sizes of safety pins
 Cleaningagent/soap

 Latex gloves
 Sunscreen
 Basic Respirator (facemask) the single-use
disposablemasks. (to provide protection
from inhalingdustand other fine particles)
 Eye flushingliquid (ifyou wear contacts,
pack cleaning and lubrication drops - pack
your glasses)
 Aspirin and non-aspirin pain reliever
 Anti-diarrhea medication
 Antacid (for upset stomach)
 Ipecac (use to induce vomitingif advised by
the Poison Control Center)
 Laxative
 Activated charcoal (useif advised by the
Poison Control Center)
 Insectrepellent
 Insectbite medication
 Allergy, cold,cough medication
 Rubbing Alcohol
 Iodine
 Cotton-tipped swabs
 Mouth-to-mouth resuscitation protection
device
 Water purification tablets
These are the basic items. Always prepare for the unexpected. Your firstaid kitshould contain much more than
this becauseduringand after catastrophes medical attention may be unavailableor delayed. You should purchase
an advanced firstaid kitthatwill providethe items needed to treat fractures,major cuts/lacerations,eye injuries,
dehydration, heat stroke and various other possibleailments. These advanced firstaid kits aremarketed as
Prolonged Hiking/CampingFirstAid Kits and Prolonged MarineVoyage FirstAid Kits. These advanced kits provide
firstaid items for when medical careis not readily available.
CLOTHING AND BEDDING
The majority of our Hurricaneseason in Central Floridaisduringthe warmest time of the year, but keep in mind as
hurricaneseason extends to the end of November the weather could be much cooler and will requireplanningto
pack some warmer clothingitems. Infants,children,the elderly or the ill will need more attention and you should
take this into consideration and plan ahead.
Includethe followingitems in your DISASTER SUPPLY KIT:
 Includeat leasttwo complete changes of clothingand footwear per person
 Extra underwear/ personal garments
 Crocs area good pair of footwear because they have protection for the toes, areextremely lightweight,
can get wet and quickly dry.
 Sturdy shoes or work boots (The hurricanewill generate a massiveamount of debris and this debris will
have sharp items (such as glass or metal) and appropriateshoes mustbe worn to protect your feet.
Hurricanes generate a lotof moisture and a foot injury can quickly getout of control in this type of
environment. The debris most likely will becontaminated in some way (example: raw sewage, hazardous
materials). The sharp items in the debris,the contamination to the debris and the moistenvironment are
an invitation for a massiveinfection. Being mobile duringand after a catastropheis very important.
 Jacket or Coat
 Rain poncho (lightweight compared to a traditional raincoat)
 Long pants
 Long Sleeve Shirt(fishing or outdoor long sleeve shirts by Columbia or Patagonia are lightweight,
breath, dry quickly and provides protection from the sun)
 Hat, gloves,scarf
 Blankets or sleepingbags/pillow

 Ground mat to sleep on (the type you would use when camping – lightweight and portable)
 Sunglasses
SANITATION
 Toilet paper
 Soap, liquid detergent
 Waterless hand sanitizer
 Feminine supplies
 Personal hygiene items
 Plastic garbagebags
 Plastic bucketwith tight lid
 Disinfectant
 Household chlorinebleach
 Hydrogen Peroxide
TOOLS
 Flash lights with extra batteries. (LED
flashlights are brighter and more efficient
than traditional flashlights)
 Have several glow sticks to use a light
source(lightweight and disposable)
 Battery operated lanterns. (Candles,
kerosene and propane lanterns arefire
hazards. Kerosene and propanelanterns
can causecarbon monoxide and carbon
dioxidepoisoningand even death when
used indoors)
 A manual can opener
 Manual phone (power will belostand
cordless phones will notwork)
 Make sureyour cell phone is charged & you
have the wall and car charger (keep an
extra battery charged)
 Mess kits, paper plates & cups, heavy-duty
plastic utensils
 Emergency preparedness manual (Barnes &
Noble or other largebookstore)
 Portableradio with extra batteries
(emergency radio is recommended) –
normal portableCD player with radio will
also providesome comfort.
 CASH, Traveler’s checks,change
 Utility knife/ survival knife
 Fireextinguisher: small canister,ABC type
 Battery operated fans
 Tube tent
 Pliers
 Bottle opener
 Screw drivers (assorted Flathead and
Philips head)
 Hammer
 Miscellaneous fasteners (various nails,
screws)
 Sturdy work gloves
 Duct tape
 Rope
 Compass
 Clock
 Waterproof matches and a lighter
 Aluminum foil
 Plastic storagecontainers
 Signal flares
 Paper, pencils & pens
 Needles & thread
 Medicinedropper
 Shut-off wrench (to turn off household
water and gas)
 Whistle
 Plastic sheeting/tarp
 Map of area (for locatingshelters)
SPECIAL ITEMS
Remember family members with special needs,such as infants and elderly or disabled persons.

 For baby
o Formula (week supply)
o Diapers
o Baby wipes
o Diaper-rash ointment
o Medicinedropper
o Bottles
o Pacifiers
o Powdered milk
o Medications
o Baby food
o Portableplaypen( to use as a crib
if at shelter)
 For Adults
o Heart & high blood pressure
medication
o Insulin
o Prescription drugs (fill
prescriptions before the
Hurricane)
o Denture needs
o Contact lenses and supplies
o Extra eye glasses
o Hearingaid batteries
o
 Entertainment
o Books to read
o Games to keep the children occupied (Nintendo type hand held video games/Apple I-Touch -
remember to pack extra batteries)
o Portableradio with tape/CD player
Pets:
If you have to evacuate your condominium unit, DO NOT LEAVE YOUR PETS BEHIND! Pets in condominium
buildings cannot survive on their own and will most likely perish.
If you have an aquariumyou can use battery operated portablebaittank aerators to keep the water oxygenated.
The portableaerators were designed for five gallon buckets and for a 50 gallon tank you may need 10 aerators.
Once the power to the buildingis off the individual unitswill heatup rapidly. As the water temperature in the
aquariumincreaseso will the fishes need for oxygen. For example, if you were to leavefor three days and used
the portableaerators the batteries would eventually wear out and the water temperature would increaseto near
or higher than the outside temperature. Many fish can’t survivein water above 85 degrees Fahrenheit; therefore
you will mostlikely looseyou fish. Consultwith your local petstore that specializes in aquariums aboutbattery
operated devices to help save your fish.
Animals haveinstincts aboutsevere weather changes and will startto become stressed. Take time to comfort your
pets before, duringand after the storm. Keep different animals isolated from each other because the anxiety of
the emergency can causethe animals to actirrationally. If you have two dogs itis recommended that they stay
together. Dogs are social animalsand will become stressed when they are separated.
For birds takethe cage and make surethe cage is covered by a thin cloth or sheet to providesecurity and filtered
light.
If you have to evacuate research ahead of time whether your local shelter will allowpets and what the
requirements are. It is advised thatyou leaveyour pet with someone you trust that is not in the Hurricane’s path.
If you areplanningon stayingata hotel/motel call in advanceand check on their policy on acceptingpets and

restrictions on number, sizeand species. Ask whether “no-pet policy”can be waived. The website
www.petswelcome.com maintains a listof hotels that acceptpets.
Make sureyour pet’s vaccinationsareup to date and have documentation on hand to prove so. In addition,make
sure your pet has its collar on with current tags and ID. The pet’s name, your cell phone number and name should
be printed or stitched on your pet’s collar.
Your pet should also be“microchipped” in caseyou areseparated. Take clear color photos (frontal,left and rights
sides) of you with your pet. Includeany pictures of the pet with you to help with any challengeto your ownership.
Includedetailed information aboutspecies,breed, age, sex, color and distinguishingcharacteristics.
It is recommended that you have two weeks’ worth of food and water on hand for your pet. The food should be
placed insideplastic storagecontainers to keep it dry.
Make a Pet Plan for what you will do in an emergency. Be prepared to access the situation. Usecommon sense
and whatever you have on hand to take careof yourself and ensure your pet’s safety duringan emergency.
 Plan for evacuation and know where you will go with your pet. Make arrangements to stay with a relative
or friend or research and have reservations for a pet friendly hotel/motel.
 Develop a buddy system with neighbors, friends or relatives and stay together. With the buddy system if
you have to leaveyour pet to attend to something, someone will be availableto watch and help carefor
your pet.
 Take time to talk with your pet’s veterinarian aboutemergency planning. Discusswhatshould be
included in your pet’s firstaid kitand ask for recommendations of veterinarians in thearea your plan calls
for you to evacuate to. Ask for ways to reduce your pet’s stress duringthe storm.
The basic itemsfor your pet:
 Extra water
 Leash/crate/carrier
 Copies of vaccination records and license
 Water and food bowls
 Pet food – Dry food is lighter than canned
food but will requirethe animal to drink
more. Canned food is heavier but is moist.
Changingyour pet’s food is not a good idea
duringthe evacuation becauseit will result
in possibleabdominal discomfortor
diarrhea. Your pet will bealready under a
lot of stressed and a change in food will
causemore stress.
 Medications
 Garbage bags/newspaper for waste
 Favoritetoys (will help to reduce stress)
 Favoriteblanket or bed (will help to reduce
stress)
 Cleaningsupplies to clean up waste
(disinfectant)
 Include a “Pet First Aid Care Book” in your
main first aid kit
For the firstfew days after the disaster,leash your pets when you go outside. Always maintain closecontact.
Familiarscents and landmarks may bealtered and your pet may become confused or lost
Considerations:
 Stay calmand collected, especially when you are around children. They will pick up on your attitude and
emotions. Make this evacuation into an unexpected vacation or adventure for the children and/or pets.

 Communication and teamwork is key. Stick together, work together and heed the instructions of safety
officials.
 Heed to all directionsof both the Red Cross and Government officials.
 Do not let your loveof adventure overwhelm your common sense.
 After the storm use caution when outside (snakes and other dangerous may have entered the area,
downed power lines,sharp debris and possiblesewage contamination)
 Be aware of exhaustion. Don’t try to do too much at once. Set priorities and paceyourself.
 Drink plenty of clean water, eat well,take your medications & vitamins,and get rest.
 Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and clean water often when workingin debris.
Aiding the injured:
 Check for injuries. Do not attempt to move seriously injured persons unless they are in immediate
danger of death or further injury. If you must move an unconscious person,firststabilizethe neck
and back, then call for help immediately
 If the victimis notbreathing, carefully position thevictimfor artificial respiration,cleartheairway,
and commence mouth-to-mouth resuscitation.(You should includea mouth-to-mouth protector in
your firstaid kit)
 Maintain body temperature with blankets and make sure the victimdoes not become overheated.
 Never try to feed liquidsto an unconscious person.
Miscellaneous Items:
 Determine how and where to secure your boat. (Know ahead of time what is required by your insurance
company)
 Have recreational vehicles and airplanes moved and secured. (Know ahead of time what is required by
your insurancecompany)
 Have a bicyclefor transportation after the storm. After a big storm gasolinemay not be avail ablefor
several days and most roads will befull of debris makingit difficultto use a car for transportation. (Due to
the high probability of an 18 to 25 foot storm surge, vehicles on the street and lower garage levels will be
flooded).
 Anything of great valueto you should be properly protected or brought with you when you evacuate.
 Family photos should be stored in a plastic storagebox (water proof boxes are available) in a protected
area of your unit (in a closetwhich is furthest away from any wi ndows). If the photo collection is small
and valuableto you bringitwith you. You can scan all thepictures on to your computer and burn a CD or
use an external hard drive.
 Take your jewelry with you
 Art work and other valuables too bigto take with you should be wrapped in plastic and moved to the
furthest partof your unit away from any exterior windows or doors.
 Silverwareshould be stored in a safe that is bolted down. (Safe should be fireand water proof)
 Put all of your valuables into clear plasticbags and placeoff the floor.

Coping with Disaster:
The emotional toll that disaster brings can sometimes be even more devastatingthan the financial strainsof
damage and loss of home, business and personal property. Everyone who sees or experiences a disaster is
affected by it in some way. Itis normal to feel anxious aboutyour own safety and that of your family and friends.
Profound sadness,grief,and anger are normal reactions and acknowledgingyour feelings helps you recover.
Focusingon your strengths and abilities will help your ability to heal. Accepting help from the community
programs and resources is healthy,you can’t do it all on your own. Contact local faith based organizations,
voluntary agencies,or professional counselors for counseling. Additionally,FEMA and state and local governments
of the affected area may provide crisis counseling.
Disasters can leavechildren feelingfrightened, confused and insecure.Whether a child has personally experienced
trauma, has merely seen the event on television,or has heard it discussed by adults itis importantfor parents to
be informed and ready to help if reactions to stress begin to occur. Seek professional help immediately.
Preparingfor disaster helps everyone in the family acceptthe fact that disasters do happen and provides an
opportunity to identify and collectthe resources needed to meet basic needs after disaster. Preparation helps
because when people feel prepared they cope better and so do children.
Preparing your boat for the storm:
 Take action early. The storm’s fringe activity will makepreparations difficult
 If your boat is stored in a high & dry facility and you have a trailer,consider securingtheboat at a safer
location or take it with you when you evacuate.
 If your boat will remain in berth, before hurricaneseason check the strength of the primary cleats,
winches and chocks.
 Purchaseextra mooring lines and chafinggear in advancesincethese items may not be availablejust
before a hurricane. Get professional guidanceon which mooring lines would be best and how to moor
your vessel off properly. Most importantly seek professional adviceon how to compensate for the storm
surge and storm tide (attach lines high on the pilings to allowfor storm surgeand storm tide). All lines
should be doubled, with rigcrossingspringlines foreand aft.
 Protect lines fromchafingby coveringrub spots with leather or an old garden hose.
 Seal all openingwith duct tape to make the boat as watertight as possible.
 Make surebatteries arefully charged for the automatic bilgepumps.
 Reduce dock or pilingcrash damageby securingold tires alongthe vessel or dock.
 Remove all loosegear from the vessel and store itat home. (small outboard motors,electronics)
 Remove all canvas,eisenglass,strataglass
 For a boat stored on a trailer,lash theboat and trailer down in a protected area. Let the air out of the
tires before tying the trailer down. Placeblocks between the frame members and the axleinsideeach
wheel. Secure with heavy lines to fixed objects from four different directions if possible. (Seek
professional adviceon how to do this properly and how to compensate for the storm surge)

Additional Resources andDirect Assistance:
 FEMA – Federal Emergency Management Agency www.fema.gov
 Poison Control Center/American Association of Poison Control Centers www.aapcc.org FOR A POISON
EMERGENCY IN THE UNITED STATES CALL 1 (800) 222-1222
 American Red Cross www.redcross.org
 Salvation Army www.salvationarmyusa.org
 Florida Division of Emergency Management www.floridadisaster.org
 National Weather Service www.noaa.gov
 The Humane Society www.humanesociety.org (Tampa) www.humanesocietytampa.org

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