 |
Hurricanes |
|
Hurricanes |
|
Tropical Depression: A tropical cyclone with maximum sustained winds near the surface of less than 39 m.p.h. Tropical Storm: Tropical cyclone with 39 to 74 m.p.h. winds. Tropical Storm Watch Tropical Storm conditions are possible in the specified area of the Watch, usually within 36 hours. Tropical Storm Warning Tropical Storm conditions are expected in the specified area of the Warning, usually within 24 hours. Hurricane A tropical cyclone with winds of 74 m.p.h. or more. Hurricane Watch Hurricane conditions are expected in the specified area of the Watch, usually within 36 hours. "The first alert when a hurricane poses a possible, but as yet, uncertain threat to the coastal area, or when a tropical storm threatens the watch area and has a 50-50 chance of intensifying into a hurricane." When a watch is issued, everyone in the area should listen for advisories, watch the probabilities issued by the Hurricane Center, and be prepared to act quickly if a hurricane warning is issued. Hurricane Warning Hurricane conditions are expected in the specified area of the Warning, usually within 24 hours. WHAT IS A HURRICANE Hurricanes are tropical cyclones with torrential rains and sustained winds of 74 miles per hour or greater which blow in a counter-clockwise direction around a center "eye". Hurricane winds can exceed 155 miles per hour and severely effect areas hundreds of miles inland. It is the wind and low pressure that create the STORM SURGE, a wall of water pushed by the storm and responsible for 9 out of 10 hurricane deaths. During Hurricane Camille, which hit the Mississippi coast in 1969, the storm surge reached 25 feet above sea level ! Moving ashore, it sweep the ocean inward while spawning tornadoes and producing torrential rains and flooding. A normal seas has ten tropical storms, six of which reach hurricane force. Former Director of the National Hurricane Center, Dr. Bob Sheets, announced that "weather patterns appear to be returning to those of the 1940’s & 1950’s when killer hurricane battered the entire East and Gulf coastlines". Don’t be lulled into thinking it can’t happen here; you can weather a storm by EARLY PREPAREDNESS and CONSTANT VIGILANCE DURING A THREAT. Hurricanes have tremendous forces with massive potential to cause widespread destruction and loss of life. In the Atlantic, the Caribbean and the Gulf of Mexico, an average of six HURRICANES develop from the many TROPICAL STORMS that are sighted each year. Most occur in August, September and October, but June 1st to November 30th is the official hurricane season. For a TROPICAL STORM to be classified as a HURRICANE, its steady winds must equal or exceed 74 miles per hour. HURRICANES spiral counterclockwise around a relatively calm center known as the EYE of the storm. This calm is deceptive, bordered as it is by hurricane force winds and torrential rains. Many persons have been killed or injured when the calm eye lured them out of the shelter, only to be caught in the hurricane winds at the far side of the eye. At hurricane strength, WINDS can gust to more than 200 miles per hour and as far out as 20 to 30 miles from the eye. The greatest threat from hurricane wind is flying debris. The forces of wind and flying debris can damage or totally destroy homes, buildings and other structures. Winds may also disrupt electric power, gas and tap water supplies and transportation. Hurricane winds do much damage, but drowning is the greatest cause of hurricane deaths. As the storm approaches and moves across the coastline, it brings huge waves, raising tides (often 15 feet or more above normal). The rise may come rapidly and produce FLOODING and battering waves. Torrential rains may also cause flash floods. TORNADOES frequently accompany or follow hurricanes and are another major hazard. A TORNADO WARNING means a tornado has been sighted and you should seek inside shelter immediately. If a tornado catches you outside, move away from its path at a right angle. If there is no time to escape, lie flat in the nearest ditch. To minimize damage to property and loss of lives in the event of a hurricane, the National Weather Service will post first a hurricane watch, then, as the storm nears, a hurricane warning. A HURRICANE WATCH is an announcement that within 30 to 48 hours hurricane conditions may pose a threat to specific coastal and inland communities. Under a watch, you should take stock of your preparedness requirements, keep abreast of the latest advisories and bulletins and be ready for quick action in case a warning is issued for your area. When a HURRICANE WARNING is issued, the following dangerous effects are expected in the specific coastal area in 24 hours or less: (a) Sustained winds of 74 miles per hour or more (b) Dangerously high water and high waves, even though expected winds may be less than hurricane force. The hurricane threat to SOUTHEAST LOUISIANA may be the GREATEST PROBLEM facing the state today. The low lying coastal parishes are extremely vulnerable to flooding by the HURRICANE STORM SURGE and HEAVY RAINS. In addition, the flat terrain does little to diminish the strength of the damaging wind when hurricanes approach the coast. Add the fact that over a million people live in coastal areas of southeast Louisiana and it’s easy to understand that WE MUST BE PREPARED. Although major hurricanes are relatively rare, they are very dangerous. Learning about hurricanes, the hurricane warning systems, and planning ahead can reduce your chances of experiencing injury or major property damage. Disaster can strike quickly and without warning. It can force you to evacuate your neighborhood or confine you to your home. What would you do if basic services - water, gas, electricity, or telephones - were cut off? Local officials and relief workers will be on the scene after a disaster, but they cannot reach everyone right away. Families can - and do - cope with disaster by preparing in advance and working together as a team. Follow the steps listed in this booklet to create your Family’s disaster plan. Knowing what to do is your best protection and your responsibility. The next time disaster strikes, you may not have much time to act. Prepare now for a sudden emergency. Learn how to protect yourself and cope with disaster by planning ahead. The checklist will help you get started. Discuss these ideas with your family, then prepare an emergency plan. Post the plan where everyone will see it- on the refrigerator or bulletin board. For additional information about how to prepare for hazards in your community, contact your local emergency preparedness office and American Red Cross chapter. Saffir Simpson Scale The National Hurricane Center uses the Saffir Simpson Scale to classify hurricanes
- Winds 74 to 95 mph.
•Category 2 -Winds 96 to 110 mph.
•Category 3 -Winds 111 to 130 mph.
•Category 4 -Winds 131 to 155 mph.
•Category 5 -Winds in excess of 155.
DURING A HURRICANE WATCH -Turn on a battery-operated radio to get the latest emergency information.
BE PREPARED TO PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY A well-constructed house or apartment building that is in good condition, and not located in an area subject to flooding, should be safe during a hurricane provided you make the necessary preparations. 1. PROTECT YOUR RESIDENCE a.) Consider flood insurance for your home. Remember, there is a five day waiting period before a policy becomes effective. Don’t wait until the last minute. b.) Any objects that hurricane winds could blow about should be tied down or brought indoors (garbage cans, patio furniture, garden tools, hoses, signs, toys, etc.). c.) Close shutters, lash down or remove awnings, tap wedges in the top track of sliding glass doors and brace French doors. d.) Taping windows will reduce shattering, but will not prevent windows from breaking. e.) If you board up your home, be sure to use strong material and fasten securely. f.) Lower or remove your television/CB antenna with extreme caution. Be aware of power lines and make sure you turn off the power FIRST! g.) If you have a wind turbine on your roof for ventilation, cover it with plastic and tie down securely. 2. MOBILE HOMES ARE NOT SAFE DURING A HURRICANE Mobile homes are particularly vulnerable to over turning during strong winds. Trailer owner should evacuate as soon as a hurricane warning is issued and after they have taken the following steps to secure their residence: a.) Damage from strong winds can be minimized by securing your mobile home with heavy cables anchored in a concrete footing. b.) Tape all windows. c.) Turn off the water where it enters the home. Open faucets and leave them open. d.) Turn off fuel lines and/or turn off gas at the tanks. e.) Disconnect electricity and sewer lines. f.) Anchor or stow away outside objects such as garbage cans, awnings, etc. g.) Relocate early! 3. SECURE YOUR PROPERTY a.) Don’t drain your swimming pool. Turn off the electricity to your pool equipment and secure. Add extra chlorine to prevent contamination. b.) Take a trailered vessel to an enclosed shelter. If the boat must be left in the open, let the air out of the trailer’s tires. If the boat is small, slide if off the trailer onto the ground and partially fill it with water. This will keep it from being blown about. c.) Fill your gas tank at the first warning; pumps may be out after the storm. d.) Park your car in your garage if you have one. If you have no access to a covered area, park your car close to the wall of well-constructed building, staying clear of any trees. Securing Windows People used to think that they were supposed to put tape over windows when a hurricane threatens. While tape may keep windows from shattering, it will not keep them from breaking When strong winds get inside your home or business, that’s when the damage happens. Wind puts pressure on inside walls and the roof. These winds inside a building often cause the roof to blow off, followed by interior and exterior wall failure. Keep in mind that delaying evacuation is more dangerous than having unprotected windows. (6) The best way to protect your home is to install storm shutters that are rated to withstand winds of 120 mph or more. If you do not have storm shutters, get 5/8" marine plywood, and cut panels to fit over every window of your home well ahead of time. Install anchors and pre-drill holes in the plywood panels so that when a hurricane watch is issued, you can put up the plywood panels quickly. The plywood panels should overlap the windows by 4 or more inches on every side. Do not fit the plywood inside the window opening, but to the wall of the house. Anchors should be set 2" from the edge of the plywood and 18" apart. Securing Entry Doors Sliding glass, double and french doors should be prepared the same as windows, however, you’ll need to add support to the plywood panels. Angle a 2x4 beam to the ground and secure the beam at the ground with a stake. All other types of doors should also be reinforced against the storm’s pressure and protected from flying debris. To strengthen doors, add surface mounted slide bolts to the inside and outside or bolt a 2x4 beam across the opening and secure it to the house frame. Securing Garage Doors In securing and strengthening garage doors, install vertical supports 18" to 24" apart, either wood or metal, behind the garage doors. They should be bolted to the garage floor and house frame. (Refer to brochure, ARC5023 "Against the Wind" for detailed instructions.) HURRICANE WARNING a hurricane with sustained winds of 74 mph or greater is expected within 24 hours. When a hurricane warning is issued, all precautions should be taken IMMEDIATELY!! WHEN A WARNING IS ISSUED: -sterilize bathtub, sinks, jugs, bottles and fill with drinking water
HURRICANE WARNING SAFETY ACTIONS When your area receives a hurricane warning: 1. Keep your radio, television, or NOAA Weather Radio on and listen for the latest Weather Service advisories, as well as, special instructions from your local government. Also listen for tornado watches and warnings. Tornadoes spawned by a hurricane are among the storm’s worst killers. 2. Plan your time before the storm arrives and avoid the last-minute hurry which might leave you marooned or unprepared. 3. Leave low-lying areas that might be swept by high tides or storm waves. 4. Leave mobile homes for more substantial shelter. Unless properly anchored, mobile homes are particularly vulnerable to overturning during strong winds. 5. Moor your boat securely before the storm arrives, or move it to a designated safe area. When your boat is moored, leave it, and don’t return until the storm has passed your area. 6. Board up windows or protect them with storm shutters or tape. Danger to small windows is mainly from wind-driven debris. Large windows may be broken by wind pressure. 7. Secure outdoor objects that might be blown away. Garbage cans, garden tools, toys, signs, porch furniture, and a number of other harmless items become missiles of destruction in hurricane winds. Anchor them or store them inside before the storm strikes. 8. Store drinking water in clean bathtubs, jugs, bottles, and cooking utensils. Your town’ s water system may be contaminated or damaged by the storm. 9. Check your battery-powered equipment. Your radio may be your only link with the world outside the hurricane, and emergency cooking facilities and flashlights will be essential if utility services are interrupted. 10. Keep your car fueled. Service stations may be inoperable for several days after the storm strikes because of flooding or interrupted electrical power. 11. Stay at home if it is sturdy and on high ground. If not - and especially if local authorities order an evacuation of your area- move to a designated shelter and stay there until the storm is over. 12. Remain indoors during the hurricane. Travel is extremely dangerous when winds and tides are whipping through your area. Stay in a safe place unless emergency repairs are absolutely necessary. But remember, at the other side of the "eye" the winds will increase rapidly to hurricane force and will come from the opposite direction. Do not stay in a mobile home during a hurricane. Even if a mobile home is anchored, there is no guarantee it will withstand the strong winds of a hurricane. If you are unable to evacuate before the hurricane hits, stay inside. Do not be fooled by the eye of the hurricane and its temporary period of peaceful weather conditions. The length of time within the eye varies from several minutes to a couple of hours, depending on the size of the storm. The larger and more intense the hurricane, the larger the eye. Stay away from windows and glass doors. You could be struck by flying debris. Continue to listen to your radio or television for hurricane updates and emergency information WHEN THE HURRICANE STRIKES: -stay indoors
Beware of the "Eye" When the storm center passes directly overhead, there is usually a lull that can last a few minutes to half-an-hour. This calm is not a sign that the hurricane is over, but is most likely the center or "eye" of the storm. In fact, the most intense part of a hurricane comes just before and just after the eye has passed through an area. AFTER THE HURRICANE STRIKES: -recount power lines, immediately report loose or dangling lines to
power company, police or fire dept
AFTER THE STORM REMEMBER: Hurricanes moving inland can cause severe flooding. Stay away from river banks and streams until all potential flooding is passed. Local authorities will announce when it is safe to return to your home. Stay tuned to local stations for current information. When you get home: Look for visible structural damage before you go inside. Watch for loose or dangling electrical power lines and broken sewer. 1. Tune to your local radio station for information and official instructions.
• Return home only when authorities advise it is safe to do so.
SHUT OFF UTILITIES ONLY IF INSTRUCTED TO DO SO BY LOCAL OFFICIALS. ALWAYS HAVE UTILIES TURNED BACK ON BY A PROFESSIONAL • Inspect utilities: - Check the gas, electrical and water lines for damage. Wear heavy shoes
or boots for protection.
• Look for electrical system damage. If there is damage to the electrical
system, turn off the system at the main circuit breaker or fuse box.
Checking Electrical Appliances If any of the electrical appliances are wet, turn off the main power switch in the house. Unplug the appliance, dry it out, then reconnect it and turn the main power switch back on. If fuses blow when the electrical power is restored, turn off the main power switch again and reinspect for short circuits in the home wiring or appliances. Call a professional, such as an electrician, if you are unsure about doing this. Pets After A Disaster The behavior of pets may change dramatically after a disaster. Normally quiet and docile cats and dogs may become loud and vicious. Monitor animals dosely. Use a leash or place dogs in a fenced yard. After Disaster Strikes Life may never return to "normal" for victims of a major disaster. Experiencing a major disaster such as a hurricane can be a traumatic experience that changes peoples lives forever. A sense of security may be lost and in most cases, there is some sort of property loss is involved. In the Aftermath Following a major hurricane, it may take several weeks to restore services and clear roads and several months to remove all the debris from the neighborhoods. Be patient and also keep in mind that the better prepared you are - the less inconvenienced you will be. RETURNING HOME AFTER A DISASTER Returning home after a major disaster can be both dangerous and difficult. Be careful entering a disaster area. Before returning to an area that has been evacuated (RISK AREA), make sure that local officials have advised it is safe to travel through areas between where you are and home. Be ready to adapt to the conditions at hand and use the following information as a guide for returning home after disaster strikes. (9)(10) • Turn on a battery-operated radio for emergency information.
RECOVERY AND REBUILDING THE EMOTIONAL AFTERMATH ....COPING WITH STRESS You and your family have been through a disaster. Your life has been turned upside down, and it will take time for things to return to normal. You should recognize that the disaster can take its toll on you as well as your property. It is important to look after yourself and your loved ones as you focus on the obvious tasks of cleanup and recovery. DISASTER ASSISTANCE Although many forms of disaster assistance will become available after a disaster strikes, do not expect it to be available as soon as you need it. Some forms of assistance to anticipate could include: 1. Disaster and emergency loans to repair or rebuild your home, business
or personal property.
During this stressful time, do your best to remain patient. Realize that many of the people who are trying to help you also are living through exactly the same situation with their own homes and families. FILING INSURANCE CLAIMS TIPS: 1. Call insurance adjuster immediately.
HIRING A CONTRACTOR IN THE AFTERMATH Perhaps one of the most critical post-disaster recovery issues you may have to deal with will be the hiring of competent, licensed, and bonded contractors. Because of the scope and severity of a major disaster, many contractors will be coming from out-of-town or out-of-state to do repairs. Be cautious about the contractor you hire. Warning signals include: 1. You must make a large down payment for work to start, or the contractor
asks for money frequently during the early construction work.
Unlicensed contractors have done substandard work, disappeared with thousands of rebuilding dollars, and even placed liens on the property of hurricane victims. A good contractor realizes his or her responsibility to document state licensor; an unscrupulous contractor should be reported to our local officials immediately. PLAY IT SAFE WITH FOOD Hurricanes usually disrupt electrical power for hours, sometimes days. Among the first things affected by the loss of electricity is the food in your refrigerator and freezers. There are certain precautions you should take before you begin using these foods FREEZER TIPS: 1. Full freezers will last at least 72 hours if you minimize opening
it. Put all foods that could defrost first on the left side of your freezer
for minimum door opening.
DISASTER DRIVING Listen to radio or television for the latest National Weather Service bulletins on severe weather for the area in which you will drive. During hot weather, heat build-up in a closed or nearly closed car can occur quickly and intensely. Children and pets can die from heat stroke in a matter of minutes when left in a closed car. Never leave anyone in a parked car during periods of high summer heat. Never attempt to drive through water on a road. Water can be deeper than it appears, and water levels can rise quickly. Most cars will float dangerously for at least a short while. A car can be buoyed by flood-waters and then swept downstream during a flood. Floodwaters also can erode roadways, and a missing section of road - even a missing bridge will not be visible with water running over the area. Wade through floodwaters only if the water is not flowing rapidly and only in water no higher than the knees. If a car stalls in floodwater, get out quickly and move to higher ground. The floodwaters may still be rising, and the car could be swept away at any moment. A car is the least safe place to be during a tornado. When a warning is issued, do not try to leave the area by car. If you are in a car, leave it and find shelter in a building. If a tornado approaches and there are no safe structures nearby, lie flat in a ditch or other ground depression with your arms over your head. Flooding can begin well before a hurricane nears land. Plan to evacuate early, and keep a full tank of gas during the hurricane season. Learn the best evacuation route before a storm forms, and make arrangements with friends or relatives inland to stay with them until the storm has passed. Never attempt to drive during a hurricane or until the all-clear is given after the storm. EVACUATION DRIVING TIME FORMULA Multiply regular driving time x 4 EVACUATION When hurricanes approach us, many coordinated activities must begin simultaneously. Various local, state, federal and voluntary agencies must prepare to respond to the hurricane threat. One response is evacuation. Government officials, who are responsible for evacuation decisions, must consider many factors before announcing that an evacuation is in effect: • What does the National Weather Service expect from the storm system
(wind strength, forward speed and direction, flooding, storm surge, etc.)?
All people in hurricane risk areas should be well-acquainted with the Saffir-Simpson measurement scale for hurricanes, but people must also understand that no two storms are alike regardless of category. Not all Category 4 hurricanes, for example, will require everyone to evacuate. Some may require only those in danger of the storm surge to leave their homes. Even weak hurricanes, Categories 1 or 2, may require some people to evacuate. Based on their best information, government officials will make evacuation decisions as early as possible. Similarly, specific evacuation instructions issued by public officials vary with each hurricane. Officials take into consideration the effects of the hurricane in relation to such factors as available routes, transportation resources, weather conditions, population concentrations and tourist seasons. American Red Cross Local government will provide the media and the general public with evacuation recommendations and instructions. Law enforcement agencies will provide security and traffic control. American Red Cross will provide information regarding where safe shelters can be found. In the interest of safety, American Red Cross shelters will not be opened in areas under evacuation orders, nor in areas subject to major flooding or substantial wind damage. American Red Cross shelters will be located in safe areas outside the risk area It is also important to note that most American Red Cross chapters and local governments announce a general information telephone number which you can use to get information that may be needed during the emergency. If you do not know this number, call your local American Red Cross chapter. The listing is under "A" in the telephone directory. MANDATORY EVACUATION This is the final and most serious phase of evacuation. Authorities will put maximum emphasis on encouraging evacuation and limiting entry into the risk area. Designated State Evacuation Routes will be enhanced by turning two outbound lanes into three wherever possible. When the storm gets close to the risk area, evacuation routes will be closed and any persons remaining in the area will be directed to Last Resort Refuge. HURRICANE EVACUATION GUIDELINES Prepare to evacuate, if advised to do so by the Governor or elected officials through radio or television announcements. Plan to evacuate as early as possible - before hurricane gale force winds and storm surge force road closings. Leaving early may also help you to avoid massive traffic jams encountered during late evacuation efforts. Listen to the radio and/or television for evacuation and sheltering information. The LOCAL EVACUATION PLAN establishes zones within the parishes bases on elevation. Zone 1 being the most crucial to evacuate. Besides hurricanes, other high tidal conditions throughout the year may necessitate a move from lower elevations to higher elevations. The local plan will involve resources within the parish and take care of the evacuation of its’ residents within the parish. The homebound, elderly and disable population of our parishes have special needs which our local government recognizes. In cooperation with the Council on Aging, plans to take care of these citizens first will be instituted. When possible, these "special needs" family members should evacuate with family. If a local evacuation order is called, officials will notify everyone primarily by the local media and Emergency Broadcasting System (EBS). All emergency information including shelter openings, evacuation routes and weather conditions will be given through the media. Stay tuned to your radio and televisions stations for the latest official advisories, warnings and bulletins. The local plan will be in effect for a Category 1, Category 2 and Fast Moving Category 3 hurricane threat. When told to evacuate: * Stay Calm
Remember to do the following: * Turn off electricity at main box, gas, heating, cooling and ventilation
systems.
HURRICANE EVACUATION TIPS: If you live in an unsafe structure, mobile home or residence subject to flooding, be prepared to evacuate when recommended by State and local officials. * Before hurricane season, check with local emergency preparedness officials
for evacuation plans in your area and obtain a copy.
- Friends and relatives well outside the flood risk area
* Carry along survival supplies: - Family medication
* Keep important papers with you in a waterproof container at all times: - Insurance policies
* Shut off water, electricity, and gas when told to do so. Return home when authorities tell you it is safe. Call your local emergency preparedness officials now to ask about evacuation routes. Living in a shelter People gathered in public and private shelters to escape hurricanes and other disasters might have to stay there - at least part of the time - for up to two weeks. To augment the supplies of water and food which may be found in or near large structures where shelters are usually located, you should plan to take the following with you: - As much drinkable liquids (water, fruit and vegetable juices, soft
drinks, etc.) and ready-to-eat food as you can carry to the shelter.
DISASTER SHELTERS One of the key response elements for any hurricane is mass care, providing shelter and food for disaster victims and workers. American Red Cross’ success has been developed through pre-disaster planning, coordinating of community resources, as well as sharing its vast experiences of over 100 years of responding to major disasters. When disaster strikes, the American Red Cross immediately initiates its disaster plan. If evacuation orders are given by local emergency management officials, then American Red Cross is responsible for providing temporary shelters away from the dangerous effects of a hurricane. There are a number of factors the American Red Cross utilizes in selecting a hurricane shelter such as surge inundation areas, rainfall flooding, wind hazards and hazardous materials. •Surge inundation areas -Evacuation shelters will not be located in areas that are vulnerable to hurricane surge inundation. Surge inundation is where a wall of water, pushed ahead of the hurricane, comes inland from a lake, river or ocean and could cause flooding or devastation to the "RISK AREA." In determining such areas, mathematical models developed by the National Weather Service and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers will be used by Red Cross. These models, such as SLOSH (Sea, Lake and Overland Surges from Hurricanes), are essential tools in determining the potential surge levels in any given area. •Rainfall flooding -Evacuation shelters will not be located in areas that are vulnerable to maior rainfall flooding. By using Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) prepared by the National Flood Insurance Program, flood inundation areas can be determimed. •Wind hazards -Evacuation shelters will not be located in buildings that have
either a design problem or a construction problem such as:
•Hazardous Materials -Evacuation shelters will not be located in or near buildings that manufacture or store certain types or quantities of hazardous material. Drawing upon their pre-planning arrangements, American Red Cross personnel have not only identified safe shelter facilities, but have also designated space within these shelters for specific uses, such as child care and feeding areas. By doing your part, evacuating from a major hurricane can help ensure the safety of your family. You may have seen cots in the video Before the Wind Blows. Cots are usually not provided in evacuation shelters, or shelters that may be opened for just a short time. That’s why it’s important to bring a sleeping bag or other bedding for your comfort. Also, you may have seen some clothing in the shelter in the video. The American Red Cross does not solicit used clothing. That requires a huge effort to ship, receive, sort, and make available to the public. Instead, we provide a way for people to purchase new clothing. This allows them to feel better about making their own selections, and also helps the local economy. Please help us by avoiding the urge to drop off used clothing and canned goods. Thanks. SUPPLIES The following are items you should gather now and take with you wherever you go if ordered to evacuate: • A change of clothing, rain gear and sturdy shoes.
-Passports, social security cards, immunization records. -Bank account numbers. -Credit card account numbers and companies. -Inventory of valuable household goods, important telephone numbers. -Family records (birth, marriage, death certificates). LAST-RESORT REFUGE FACILITIES The American Red Cross affirms that if you are ordered to evacuate, you should do so immediately. The information provided here is given for those situations where people may be caught by quickly changing or rapidly deteriorating conditions. In such situations, it may become necessary to take refuge wherever you can find it. Buildings and structures used to seek protection from the hazards of a hurricane are called Last-Resort Refuge Facilities. Choosing to go to a last-resort refuge is not condoned or recommended by the American Red Cross as a planned response to a hurricane. Be advised that buildings that are not officially designated as American Red Cross shelters, may not be safe havens during the storm. High rise buildings are subject to wind stress, blowing projectiles, broken glass and undermining of foundations by flood waters. Even if the structure withstands the forces of a hurricane, these refuges may lack: • Electricity
If you find that seeking refuge is your only option, try to locate a structurally sound building with minimal glass exposure. Where possible, use rooms or corridors away from large windows and above the potential flood level. Remember, that the best planned response for a hurricane is early evacuation away from the risk area. 10 STEP DISASTER PREPAREDNESS PLAN To survive a hurricane you have to create your own disaster plan; one that fits your life style. One that is so well rehearsed it becomes a reflex. We believe that your disaster plan can be developed in 10 steps or stages. FIRST You need to decide NOW where you will go to escape the physical dangers of a storm. a. evacuate to central or northern Louisiana
SECOND Learn what evacuation routes will be used. That means you must know the MAJOR and MINOR highways to travel from your area to the North or Northeast. a. decide your destination NOW so that you can familiarize yourself
with the area.
THIRD THE SURVIVAL KIT - this kit must include the special needs of your entire family. Putting together a disaster kit is relatively simple. Your kit need to contain items in each of the following categories: WATER: The most essential and life sustaining item you need in your families kit. Stocking water reserves and learning how to purify contaminated water should be among your top priorities in preparing for an emergency. FORMULA FOR CONSUMPTION: 1 gallon for each person in your household per day for 21 days. In hot environments you can double that amount. For children, nursing mothers and the elderly more water will be required. STORAGE: Always store your water in a cool, dark place. Also store water in your freezer in ziplock bags. Remember a full freezer runs more efficiently year round and will keep your frozen foods from spoilage for at least 72 hours. SHELF LIFE: 6 months. WATER RESOURCES: Purchase spring water from area vendors or start storing in plastic containers NOW. When storing water in plastic containers, always treat with 8 drops of liquid chlorine bleach per gallon. Bleach MUST contain 5.25 % sodium hypochlorite and no soap. 3 WAYS TO PURIFY WATER: Purification Tables: inexpensive and available at local sporting goods or drug stores. Boiling: is the safest method. Bring to a rolling boil for 10 minutes. Put oxygen back into the water by pouring it back and forth between containers. Chlorination: uses liquid chlorine bleach to kill microorganisms. Use 8 drops per gallon of water and let stand for 30 minutes. HIDDEN WATER SOURCES IN YOUR HOME Water beds: contain 400 gallons of water. If you designate your water bed as an emergency water source, put fresh water and add 2 ounces of bleach per 120 gallons. Hot Water Tank: flush out before hurricane season removing all sentiment. To use this source open the drain at the bottom of the tank making sure that the tank’ s gas or electricity source is OFF, turn off the water intake valve and turn on a hot water faucet to start the flow. FOOD: Food provisions and liquids for people during a period of emergency or catastrophe rank in the top priority with medical care. It is important to select foods which are familiar to your family and which will last for months without refrigeration. Realize that without refrigeration, food poisoning poses a real danger in the summer heat and humidity along the Hurricane Belt. Whenever possible, choose foods in waterproof containers or put into water-proof containers for that reason. 21 DAY SUPPLY CHECK LIST FOOD: -fruits; canned, dried & fruit rollup
PERSONAL ITEMS -washcloth and small towel
SANITARY NEEDS -paper towels, toilet paper
BABY SUPPLIES (if needed) -clothes
CHILDREN’S SUPPLIES -favorite stuffed animal, doll or toy
ADULT SUPPLIES -cards, books, needlework, magazines stationary, postcards, stamps
CLOTHING AND BEDDING -one complete change of clothing per person, appropriate for season
and weather conditions -sturdy work boots
COMMUNICATION, LIGHTING & SAFETY -battery-operated radio
COOKING EQUIPMENT *Note: Do not attempt to cook indoors on outdoor equipment. Be sure that there are no possible gas leaks indoors. -barbecue grill
"IF ONLY WE HAD" SUPPLIES -chain saw, extra gas & oil
CLEAN-UP SUPPLIES -camera & extra film to photograph your damaged home before clean-up
begins. This will help you for insurance claims
PAPERS AND VALUABLES Secure all these items in a waterproof containers or ziplock bags and store safely. Make copies in the event they are lost. -social security cards birth certificates
FIRST AID SUPPLIES Keep contents in a waterproof metal or plastic container. Keep medicines tightly capped. Check periodically and replace any medication which has expired. -first aid handbook
MEDICINES THAT GO ONTO YOU INCLUDE: -hydrogen peroxide
MEDICINE TO GO INTO YOU INCLUDE: -aspirin or acetominophine
SPECIAL NEEDS FAMILY MEMBERS STEP FOUR CHILDREN: One of the most important tasks you will face will be preparing your children for the possibility of an approaching hurricane. This should be done in a non-threatening way; try to be positive and protective. Remind children that some of the toys and games they care about may be lost and emphasize that, overtime, material things can be replaced. Give your children simple tasks to do in your preparations. This will encourage their self-esteem and help them to feel that they are more in control of the situation they will be faced with. ELDERLY: The homebound, elderly and disabled populations of our Parishes have special needs which the government recognizes. However, because of their ever increasing numbers, it would be impossible to provide aid to everyone without the assistance of their relatives, neighbors and friends forming a "BUDDY SYSTEM". The "BUDDY SYSTEM" is a care program in which you offer assistance to someone in need, or who cannot help themselves during warning periods and throughout the duration of a hurricane or other type of emergency. In this way, people will not be isolated and will have help during a disaster. If someone you know is elderly, disabled, homebound or perhaps does not speak or fully understand English, we ask that you give some though to their well being and become their "BUDDY". EMERGENCY PLANNING FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES 1. Call the Council on Aging and register yourself or your family TODAY. These records of our elderly will be given to local office of emergency preparedness so that their needs will be taken care of first. 2. If you must take a family member to a medical shelter, decide now who will go and remember only one family member is allowed. The responsible party must bring along proof of insurance, medication history, critical medications and any special dietary food needs. 3. And please, if at all possible take your elderly family with you if you evacuate. 4. If you live in an apartment building, ask the management to mark accessible exits clearly, and to make arrangements to help you evacuate the building. 5. Keep extra wheelchair batteries, oxygen, catheters, medication, food for guide or hearing -eye dogs, or other items you might need. Also, keep a list of the type and serial numbers of medical devices you need. FRAIL ELDERLY IN NURSING HOMES: 1. Learn from the Director of our relative nursing facility exactly what their disaster plan entails. Check to see if they have adequate generator supplies. 2. Check to see if the plan makes provisions for proper identification of patients being evacuated. These identification bands should include the name, age, medical condition and current medications. 3. See to it that the facility has insect repellant to avoid hospitalization due to excessive bites. 4. Make sure they will be evacuated to a shelter with air conditioning. STEP FIVE PROVISIONS FOR YOUR PETS Pets cannot be housed in shelters unless they are seeing-eye dogs. Some hotels do allow pets but check before making reservations. STEP SIX PREPARING IMPORTANT DOCUMENTS AND MEMORABILIA Remember: anything that is not replaceable should be protected. Those old family photographs of our great, great grandmother, of your wedding day, our children or valuable items that have been in the family for generations. These cannot be replaced: Please protect them with all your heart. STEP SEVEN INSURANCE AND RECORDING OF YOUR PROPERTY FOR POTENTIAL INSURANCE CLAIMS. Appropriate and adequate insurance is an important component in recovering after disaster. Check your policy today! Ask about "replacement costs" on your homeowner’s. Your property insurance will fall into one of 4 categories: 1. Homeowner’s Insurance: usually covers losses caused by wind, storms, broken water pipes, but not surface flooding. Some policies may cover basement flooding caused by sewer backup or sump pump failure. 2. Flood Insurance: covers most losses caused by surface floodwater 3. Wind and Hail Insurance: covers losses in coastal areas from the winds of hurricane. In coastal areas, homeowner’s insurance often does not cover damage from wind. 4. Renters: at minimum, insure your rental unit’s contents. Also ask about special coverage for hurricanes and government’s flood insurance for renters. UPDATE ON THE CHANGES IN THE NATIONAL FLOOD INSURANCE EFFECTIVE MARCH 1, l995 #1 WAITING PERIOD - IS NOW 30 DAYS BEFORE IT GOES INTO EFFECT. This means you can no longer wait until a tropical system nears the Gulf of Mexico to purchase flood insurance. This 30-day waiting period means you need to be prepared well in advance of a hurricane. Don’t get caught without flood insurance. And don’t be lulled into thinking that since your home is not in what is considered a HIGH RISK FLOOD ZONE that it can’t happen to you. Flooding can happen anywhere and at anytime. #2 NO FEDERAL DISASTER ASSISTANCE -may be used to make payments, including loan assistance, to a person for repairs, replacement, or restoration for damage to any personal, residential or commercial property if that person had previously received such assistance on condition of obtaining flood insurance under federal law and subsequently failed to obtain and maintain coverage as required. PROPERTY INVENTORY: One good suggestion is to have current inventory of your property and personal belongings. You can do this by either photos or videotaping. Mark or record the date of purchase, it’s value and serial number on each item. Do not underestimate the value of these items. This will be a very stress-free way to file insurance claims. Because remember during times of great stress sometimes we forget items that we own. STEP EIGHT SECURING AND PREPARINGYOUR HOME AND PROPERTY Don ‘t wait until a hurricane enters the Gulf to start preparing your home against wind and water. Things you can do NOW: 1. Trim dead branches from your trees. 2. Purchase the materials needed to properly board up your home. 3. Make plans NOW as to what you will do with the loose items in your yard. Make a list of what they are and where you will store them. Keep it handy so that all responsible families members can help when the time comes. 4. Teach all responsible household members the correct way to shut off all utilities in you home at the main source. STEP NINE DESIGNATING A PLAN FOR FAMILY NOTIFICATION & COMMUNICATION When a disaster strikes your area it is easier to make a call out-of-state then to your relatives or friends across town. We recommend that you and your family or friends choose your OUT-OF-STATE CONTACT PHONE NUMBER THE RULES ARE SIMPLE AND EASY: Everyone in the family, wherever they are, must call that number to let the family know their condition, whereabouts and messages. THIS OUT-OF-STATE CONTACT PHONE NUMBER SHOULD BE CONSIDERED AS YOUR COMMUNICATION LIFE-LINE. CHOOSE WISELY who that person will be. And teach everyone in the family that number. For those of you with infants or toddlers write the number visibly on what they are wearing. Also have a RE-GROUPING LOCATION picked out in the event that you are separated from one another. This is especially important for those families that have members working out-of-town, offshore or are service providers. STEP TEN FINANCIAL PLANNING You need to plan financially for surviving a hurricane. We often overlook the fact that preparing your home, stocking food in your cabinet and evacuating costs money. Plan ahead and budget for the additional expenses. By gradually making the purchases you need throughout the six months prior to hurricane season, you will be able to afford the ($$$$$) dollars it will cost to execute your plan. Let’ s consider the expenses for a family of four, including someone with special needs, such as a baby or elderly person: (1) For your disaster supplies kit, which includes your basic supplies of food, water, toiletries, paper goods and cooking items, the cost will be over four-hundred ($400) dollars. (2) To secure an average home of fourteen-hundred (1400) square feet, with 11 to 13 windows and doors, you can expect to pay over two-hundred and fifty ($250) dollars. That will pay for the basics—five-eighths-inch (5/8") plywood, visqueen, screws, etc. (3) When you have to evacuate out of the community, you need to budget for fuel expenses, eating on the road and hotels. Don’ t forget that hotels average about $50 per night. (4) If you require special medication, budget the cost of your prescription in your financial planning. (5) You must also budget for a decrease in revenue. Unfortunately, you may be out of work for a few weeks and will not be paid. Consider a loss of wages. Take these ten steps...review them...understand them...study them...execute them. Remember "SURVIVING THE STORM...IT’S UP TO YOU" HERE IS A CARE GUIDE FOR YOU TO FOLLOW: 1. KEEP THE FAMILY TOGETHER - in bad times, togetherness provides mutual support for everyone. 2. DISCUSS YOUR PROBLEMS - sharing your anxieties will help release tension. Crying is a natural response to a disaster. 3. REST OFTEN AND EAT WELL - your body must have proper rest and nourishment for you to keep going. 4. SET A MANAGEABLE SCHEDULE - you have a million things to do, make a list and do jobs one at a time. Stick to your schedule. 5. WATCH FOR SIGNS OF STRESS * short tempers, frequent arguments
6. SEEK HELP - if you cannot shake feelings of despair or other telltale signs of stress get professional help. Special outreach programs and crisis counseling are often set up. 7. CARE FOR CH1LDREN & ELDERLY - listen to what they have to say about their experiences. Reassure them through words and actions that life will return to normal. Touching, hugs and holding are important. 8. BE PATIENT - above all, try to be patient with your family, neighbors, the local, state and federal authorities and volunteer agency personnel. Remember that many others are in the same situation you are in, and it may take time for everyone to get service. |
