Hurricane Season: Staying Safe When Sheltering in Place

Staying safe when Sheltering in Place

Hurricane Idalia made landfall in the Big Bend region of Florida as a Category 3 storm on August 30, which reminds us that we need to make a plan sooner rather than later. The peak time for hurricane season is upon us and staying informed of local weather alerts and emergency information is critical when determining whether to evacuate or shelter in place. For those living in mandatory evacuation zones, if told to evacuate, you should do so immediately.

If you live in manufactured housing, get out!

Manufactured structures, such as mobile homes, are unsafe during hurricanes and high winds. Evacuate to the nearest shelter site. Take your go-bag and critical documents with you.

Do not walk, swim, or drive through flood waters.

If you decide not to evacuate or it is too late to evacuate, follow these tips for safely sheltering in place:

Get inside, stay inside.

Monitor local radio or television stations for instructions.

Bring your loved ones, emergency supplies, and pets with you.

Find a safe spot in this location (see below).

Stay put until officials say it’s safe to leave.

If you live in a one- or two-story building or multi-story building:

For flood or storm surge danger: Go to the highest level of the building or onto the roof if necessary.

Take your go-bag and critical documents with you.

Do not climb into a closed attic—you may become trapped by rising flood water.

Call 9-1-1.

For high wind: Go to a small, interior, windowless room in a sturdy building on the lowest level.

Stay in touch.

Call or text your emergency contact to let them know your location, if family members are missing, and how you are doing.

Use your phone only when necessary. Keep lines open for emergency responders.

Continue to monitor radio and television stations and social media for updates.

 

Sources: cdc.gov, fema.gov.

Accessible video on hurricane prep:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=umolcYUCuow