Some useful Hurricane survival guides

Hurricanes are violent tropical storms with sustained winds of at least 74 mph. They form over warm ocean waters – usually starting as storms in the Caribbean or off the west coast of Africa. As they drift slowly westward, the warm waters of the tropics fuel them. Warm, moist air moves toward the center of the storm and spirals upward. This releases torrential rains. As updrafts suck up more water vapor, it triggers a cycle of strengthening that can be stopped only when contact is made with land or cooler water. Hurricane season is typically from June 1st to November 30th.

Top 10 Hurricane Myths

1. My windows are ready. I have them taped.

2. I'm going to open the windows on the side opposite the wind so the difference in air pressure doesn’t explode my house.

3. Why should I prepare my house? When the big one comes, it’s going to be destroyed anyway.

4. The storm surge is only going to be 15 or 20 feet at worst. My condo is on an upper floor. I’m riding the storm out here.

5. We get high winds in our summer thunderstorms. A hurricane can't be much worse.

6. I’ve got my mobile home tied down and braced. It will be a safe place to ride out the storm.

7. When I get the evacuation order, I’m leaving Pinellas County. There's no high ground here, and everyone knows that it will be much safer inland.

8. Why do I need an evacuation plan? When the order comes down, I'm going to go to an emergency shelter.

9. The weather looks great, but we're under an evacuation order. That doesn't make any sense. I’m going to wait until the weather gets bad before I evacuate.

10. It will never happen here!

via evacuationhelp

Do something right for safe

ALWAYS:

Keep a full tank of gas in your car if an evacuation seems likely. Gas stations may be closed during emergencies and unable to pump gas during power outages. Plan to take one car per family to reduce congestion and delay.
Make transportation arrangements with friends or your local government if you do not own a car.
Listen to a battery-powered radio and follow local evacuation instructions.
Gather your family and go if you are instructed to evacuate immediately.
Leave early enough to avoid being trapped by severe weather.
Follow recommended evacuation routes. Do not take shortcuts; they may be blocked.
Be alert for washed-out roads and bridges. Do not drive into flooded areas.
Stay away from downed power lines.

WHEN TIME PERMITS:

Gather your disaster supplies kit.
Wear sturdy shoes and clothing that provides some protection, such as long pants, long-sleeved shirts, and a cap.
Secure your home by closing and locking doors and windows.
Unplug electrical equipment, such as radios and televisions, and small appliances, such as toasters and microwaves. Leave freezers and refrigerators plugged in unless there is a risk of flooding.
Let others know where you are going.

EVACUATE WHEN:

If you are directed by local authorities to do so. Be sure to follow their instructions.
If you live in a mobile home or temporary structure—such shelters are particularly hazardous during hurricanes no matter how well fastened to the ground.
If you live in a high-rise building—hurricane winds are stronger at higher elevations.
If you live on the coast, on a flood plain, near a river, or on an inland waterway.
If you feel you are in danger.

IF YOU ARE UNABLE TO EVACUATE:

If you are unable to evacuate, go to your safe room.
If you do not have safe room, stay indoors during the hurricane and away from windows and glass doors.
Close all interior doors—secure and brace external doors.
Keep curtains and blinds closed. Do not be fooled if there is a lull; it could be the eye of the storm - winds will pick up again.
Take refuge in a small interior room, closet, or hallway on the lowest level.
Lie on the floor under a table or another sturdy object.