Be Prepared for Storm Season

Posted: June 1, 2022 at 9:20 am

Hurricane season has arrived in Louisiana, and residents in high-risk areas are preparing for a possible storm. This list may help in planning needs and making preparations.

Think ahead and be prepared; last-minute shopping could be a waste of time.

Critical points: Plan ahead. Get a 2-week supply of emergency necessities and have a portable “Hurricane Kit” if you live in an evacuation area. Don’t forget special supplies for babies, the elderly, and those with “special needs.” Store clean-up and repair supplies in a “safe” room.

BASIC HURRICANE KIT (2-week supply)

  • Battery-operated clock
  • Battery-operated radio & TV
  • Bottled water or water jugs (7 gallons per person)
  • Flashlights (one for everyone in the family)
  • Extra batteries (enough for all needs over several days)
  • Blankets/pillows
  • Cell phone and charger
  • Butane Lighter
  • Can opener
  • Canned and dry food
  • Camp stove (and lamp) with fuel
  • Fire extinguisher
  • First Aid kit
  • Propane for stove or grill
  • Wired telephone (cordless phones won’t work without power)

Additional tips to help you get prepared can be found at Get a Game Plan!

DANGER!

  • If you use an emergency generator, NEVER operate it indoors or plug it directly into home wiring through an outlet. Plug appliances directly into generator sockets.
  • Never cook with charcoal indoors or near structures.
  • Stay indoors. High winds will turn loose items into deadly projectiles. High water will drive snakes and wild animals to higher ground; highway pavement may be undermined, and power lines may be down in the wake of a storm.
  • Take special care with open fires while cooking. Roads may be impassable and emergency help not available.
  • Cooperate with emergency repair crews. Utility and cleanup crews will be on the job as soon as they can safely make their way to the damaged locations.
  • Use your phone only for emergencies.

Repairs and the restoration of services will take time. Some parts of an entire utility system may need to be rebuilt after damage and debris are cleared away.

Track the most recent storms at The National Hurricane Center.

Generator Safety