HURRICANE SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

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By Terry Orr

A couple days ago, I wrote about Tornado Safety and today we will focus on hurricanes – another one of nature’s force we endure.

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What is a Hurricane?

A hurricane is a type of tropical cyclone, the generic term for a low pressure system that generally forms in the tropics. A typical cyclone is accompanied by thunderstorms, and in the Northern Hemisphere, a counterclockwise circulation of winds near the earth’s surface.\

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PRE-SEASON PREPARATION

• Enter the season prepared
• Know all evacuation routes if you live in close to the coast
• Make sure your home meets building codes for withstanding hurricanes, and have storm shutters
• Have proper tools, supplies, and first aid kit
• Always have plenty of non-perishable foods on hand.

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WHEN A WATCH OR WARNING IS ISSUED

• Leave low lying areas
• Protect windows with plywood boards, or storm shutters
• Secure outside objects
• Make sure you have plenty of fuel and water
• Have several days supply of food and water for each family member
• If called to evacuation, do so immediately.

BEFORE THE STORM

• Be ready to put your plan and preparation into action
• Pat attention to local weather reports on radio, television, or the internet
• Have house boarded up, or have storm shutter in place
• Have plenty of food and water
• Make sure all tools, supplies, and first aid kit available for use
• Have a secure room available.

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DURING THE STROM

• Stay in Secure Room
• Stay away from windows
• Do not use the phone, or candles
• Monitor Weather and Civil Service Bulletins on either regular or NOAA radio
• Have supplies on hand
• Remain indoors when the eye moves over your area because the storm will resume shortly

AFTER THE STORM

• Make sure that all is definitely clear outside and the storm has completely passed before going out
• Report downed power lines, and stay away from them
• Use stored water and food
• Be patient.  Things will take a while before they get back to normal

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Here is the list of hurricane names for 2012:

Alberto

Beryl

Chris

Debby

Ernesto

Florence

Gordon

Helene

Isaac

Joyce

Kirk

Leslie

Michael

Nadine

Oscar

Patty

Rafael

Sandy

Tony

Valerie

William