As all or most of you know, Hurricane Dorian is ramping up and it’s looking more likely it will impact the east coast of Florida at category 3 or category 4 strength.
Here in Hernando County, they are forecasting severe weather and recommend being prepared. Below are some helpful tips and links to help you and your family get ready for inclement weather.
Be sure to check the Hernando County Emergency Management site for important information such as emergency contacts, evacuation routes, alerts and more.
If you would like to track the storm online, please visit the NOAA National Hurricane Center website or download their app on the iTunes App Store or on Google Play.
Before a Hurricane:
- Build or restock an emergency preparedness kit. Be sure to include key items like a flashlight, batteries, cash and first aid supplies and make sure you have enough of your medications to last at least 2 weeks.
- Bring in items, such as outdoor furniture, that the wind can blow away.
- Have drinking water ready for use.
- Be sure to keep your primary vehicle in good working condition and keep the gas tank full. Stock it with emergency supplies and a fresh change of clothes.
- Plan how to communicate with family members if you lose power – even consider building an emergency communication plan.
- Turn off propane tanks and unplug small appliances. Click here for more information on how to practice electrical safety during flooding.
During a Hurricane:
- Close storm shutters and stay away from windows, as flying glass from broken windows could be dangerous.
- If you are outside, move to higher ground and do not walk, swim or drive through floodwater.
- If power is lost, be sure to use a flashlight. Using candles can pose an unnecessary fire risk.
- Turn your refrigerator or freezer to its coldest setting and open it only when necessary. If you lose power, this could help preserve your food supplies.
- Watch or listen to a TV or radio for the latest weather updates or emergency instructions. Many city or county websites also often supply updates every 30 minutes or so.
After a Hurricane:
- Avoid walking or driving through floodwaters. Just six inches of moving water can knock you over and fast-moving water can sweep your vehicle away.
- Avoid any floodwater that may be electrically charged from underground or downed power lines. In addition, be extra vigilant as floodwater could be hiding dangerous debris and areas where the ground has washed away.
- Only return home when authorities indicate it is safe. Be sure to keep in touch with friends and family so they know that you are safe.
We will continue to post updates throughout the next few days so please be sure to follow us here on this site and join our facebook and/or twitter page to be alerted when something is posted.
Thank you and stay safe.