National Weather Service Southern Region - Climate, Water and Weather

Hurricane Safety Rules

Before the Hurricane Season

Know the hurricane risks in your area.
Learn the evacuation routes and location of official shelters.
Assemble a supplies kit, including a NOAA Weather Radio and/or a battery-powered AM/FM radio, flashlights, non-perishable food, water (3 gallons per person), a first-aid kit, clothes and blankets, and prescription medications.
Obtain and store materials, such as plywood, necessary to properly secure your home.
Clear loose and clogged rain gutters and downspouts.
Keep trees and shrubbery trimmed.
Make a plan for any pets you may have. Public health regulations do not allow pets in public shelters, nor to most hotels/motels allow them.

Learn the NWS hurricane watch and warning terminology

Hurricane/Tropical Storm WATCH: Hurricane or tropical storm conditions are POSSIBLE in the specified area of the watch, usually within 36 hours. Prepare to take action in case a warning is issued.
Hurricane/Tropical Storm WARNING: Hurricane or tropical storm conditions are EXPECTED in the specified area of the warning, usually within 24 hours. Complete all storm preparations and evacuate if directed by local officials.

During a Watch

Listen to radio, TV, or NOAA Weather Radio for official bulletins of the storm's progress.
Prepare to cover ALL window and door openings with shutters or other shielding materials.
Fuel and service vehicles.
Prepare to bring lawn furniture and other loose, lightweight objects inside.
Have an extra supply of cash on hand.
Prepare to evacuate if you live in a mobile home, on the coastline, or in a high-rise building.

During a Warning

Closely monitor radio, TV, or NOAA Weather Radio for official bulletins.
Complete preparation activities, such as putting up storm shutters, storing loose objects, etc.
Follow instructions issued by local officials. Leave immediately if told to do so!
If evacuating, leave early (in daylight if possible). Stay with friends or relatives or at a low-rise inland hotel or motel. If this is not possible, go to a predesignated public shelter.
Notify neighbors and a family member outside of the warned area of your evacuation plans.

If you are staying in a home

Only stay in a home if you have NOT been advised to evacuate. Stay inside a well-constructed building.
Turn the refrigerator to maximum cold and open only when necessary.
Turn off utilities if told to do so by authorities.
Fill bathtub and large containers with water for sanitary purposes.
If winds become strong, stay away from windows and doors even if they are covered. Go to an interior first-floor room such as a bathroom or closet. Close all interior doors and brace external doors.