Hurricane Safety Tips for Floridians

Living in Florida means knowing how to stay safe during hurricane season. With its east coast exposure to the Atlantic and its central location in the state, Orlando faces a moderate risk of hurricane strikes. Understanding the right precautions can make all the difference in protecting yourself and your property. Let's dive into some essential hurricane safety tips everyone living in Orlando should know.

First, it's crucial to understand the hurricane warning system. The National Weather Service (NWS) issues watches and warnings for Florida. A hurricane watch means that hurricane conditions are possible within the next 48 hours, while a hurricane warning indicates that hurricane conditions are expected within the next 36 hours. Being aware of these alerts and acting accordingly can give you precious time to prepare.

Preparing Your Home

When a hurricane watch is issued, it's time to start preparing your home. Orlando's low elevation and flat landscape can lead to widespread flooding, so having a plan in place is vital.

Secure your home's exterior. Bring in outdoor furniture, decorations, and loose items that could become projectiles in high winds. Trim trees and shrubs around your home to prevent limbs from damaging your property. Install hurricane shutters or board up windows and doors with plywood.

Stocking Up on Supplies

Assemble an emergency supply kit. Include essentials like water (one gallon per person per day), non-perishable food, flashlights, extra batteries, a first aid kit, medications, important documents, and cash. It's also a good idea to have a portable charger for your electronic devices.

Consider your pets as well. Have enough food and water for them, and make sure they have proper identification in case you get separated. A pet carrier and leash or harness are also essential supplies.

Develop an Evacuation Plan

Know your evacuation route and have a safe place to stay. Orlando has numerous shelters, but they can fill up quickly. Consider staying with family or friends who live inland, or book a hotel room in advance. Don't forget to practice your plan with your family to ensure everyone knows what to do when a warning is issued.

If you decide to evacuate, do so immediately when told to do so. A delay of just a few hours can mean the difference between safe evacuation and being trapped by floodwaters or high winds. Remember, you won't be able to return home until authorities say it's safe, so plan accordingly.

What to Do During a Hurricane

If you've decided to stay in Orlando during a hurricane, there are steps you can take to stay safe during the storm.

Stay indoors, away from windows and doors, in a small interior room on the lowest level of your home. This could be a closet, bathroom, or interior hallway. Stay there until the storm passes entirely, and local authorities say it's safe to come out.

Stay Informed

Keep a battery-powered radio tuned to a local station for updates and instructions from the NWS. Follow the guidance of local officials, who are best equipped to make decisions about your safety.

Use your phone sparingly to conserve battery life and prevent networks from becoming overwhelmed. Text message is often more reliable than calling during a storm. However, avoid posting updates or checking social media unless absolutely necessary.

Protect Yourself from the Aftermath

After the storm passes, use extreme caution when moving around your property. Be aware of fallen power lines, damaged structures, and flooding. Never enter a flooded area, as it could be electrically charged or hiding hidden hazards. Use a battery-powered flashlight instead of candles or torch to avoid causing a fire.

When using a generator, ensure it's properly vented and follow the manufacturer's instructions. Never use it indoors, as it can produce deadly carbon monoxide fumes. After using a generator, turn it off and let it cool before refueling to avoid sparks.

Finally, don't let your guard down as the storm starts to weaken. Keep listening to local updates, and follow the advice of emergency personnel. The most dangerous part of a hurricane can often be the storm surge and flooding that occurs after the winds have died down. Be patient, and don't return home until local authorities say it's safe to do so. By following these hurricane safety tips, you can better protect yourself and your family during Florida's hurricane season.