History teaches that a lack of hurricane awareness and preparation are common threads among all major hurricane disasters. By knowing your vulnerability and what actions you should take, you can reduce the effects of a hurricane disaster.

Hurricane hazards come in many forms:

• Storm Surges
• High Winds
• Tornadoes
• Flooding

This means it is important for your family to have a plan that includes all of these hazards. Look carefully at the safety actions associated with each type of hurricane hazards and prepare your family disaster plan accordingly.

The first and most important anyone should do when facing a hurricane threat is use common sense. It is strongly advised that you should purchase an all hazards alert portable radio. These radios can be found at department stores, pharmacies and other stores that sell electronics. They cost anywhere from $20.00 to $80.00.

Hurricanes are tropical cyclones that threaten areas of the United States along the Atlantic Coast and the Gulf of Mexico. They can cause extensive damage due to the winds, flooding and even tornadoes they produce. The hurricane season extends from June 1^st to November 30^th, and the peaks from mid-August to late October.

Tropical Depression: An organized system of clouds and thunderstorms with a defined surface circulation and maximum sustained winds of 38 MPH or less.

Tropical Storm: An organized system of strong thunderstorms with a defined surface circulation and maximum sustained winds of 39 to 73 MPH.

Terms to be Aware of:

Tropical Storm Watch: An announcement that tropical storm conditions (sustained winds of 39 to 73 MPH) is possible within the specified coastal area within 48 hours.

Tropical Storm Warning: An announcement that tropical storm conditions (sustained winds of 39 to 73 MPH) are expected somewhere within the specified coastal area within 36 hours.

Hurricane Watch: An announcement that hurricane conditions (sustained winds of 74 MPH or higher) are possible within the specified coastal area. Because hurricane preparedness activities become difficult once winds reach tropical storm force, the hurricane watch is issued 48 hours in advance of the anticipated onset of tropical-storm-force winds.

Hurricane Warning: An announcement that hurricane conditions (sustained winds of 74 MPH or higher) are expected somewhere within the specified coastal area. The hurricane warning will be issued 36 hours in advance of the anticipated onset of tropical-storm-force winds.

Storm Surge: A dome of water pushed ashore by hurricane-force winds.

Storm Tide: A storm surge combined with normal tide.

Hurricane winds can range from 74mph to more than 150mph. The likely hood of a major hurricane above a Category 2 hitting our area is slim; however Category 1 and Tropical Storms can do some damage and most frequently occur.

What you can do to be prepared is

• Create a disaster supply kit, (www.redcross.org) and bring it with you if you are asked to leave.
• Stay tuned to TV and radio for weather updates. On radio 1010 wins is the best station and most accurate.
• Secure outside objects or bring them inside.
• Fuel up your vehicle
• Stock up on food and water in case you must take shelter in your home.
• Turn off utilities at the main valves or switches if instructed by authorities.
• Shutter or Board up windows.
• Make arrangements to have pets cared for as pets are not allowed in public shelters.
• Make arrangements with family or friends not in the area to stay with them, and advise all in your family of the meeting place in case you are separated.

During a Hurricane you should take refuge on the ground floor in a small central room or hallway, stay away from all windows and glass doors, get under a table or similar strong object and close all inside doors and brace all outside doors.

After a hurricane remain in a secure location until you are notified to leave, do not drive unless necessary, do not drink the tap water until authorities say it is OK then boil the water. If it is safe check any damage to your home and property, Report damage to your insurance company.

Information on Hurricanes and all other disasters both natural and manmade can be found on the following web-sites:

• www.fema.gov
• www.redcross.org
• www.nws.noaa.gov
• www.ready.gov/america: Emergency Plan on Line
• www.nhc.noaa.gov

Stay tuned to our website as updates and new articles will be added during this season. Further information can also be obtained by calling 201-440-1815 ext 165.

Thank you and stay safe.

Michael J Ward
OEM Coordinator

Posted on Wednesday, June 2nd, 2010 at 7:30 am | Filed under Emergency Management .