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Natural Hazards Before a hurricane... plan an evacuation route contact your local emergency management office or American Red Cross chapter ask for the community hurricane preparedness plan it should include information on the safest evacuation routes and nearby shelters learn safe routes inland be ready to drive 20 to 50 miles inland to locate a safe place have disaster supplies on hand flashlight extra batteries portable, battery-operated radio extra batteries first aid kit manual emergency food emergency water non-electric can opener essential medicines (i.e. vitamins, Aspirin, Sudafed) money cash credit cards sturdy shoes extra (warm) clothes rain resistant/proof clothes blankets make arrangements for pets contact your local humane society for information on local animal shelters make sure all family know how to respond after a hurricane teach them how and when to turn off gas, electricity, and water teach children how and when to call 9-1-1, police, fire department, and/or poison control teach children which radio station to tune for emergency information have an emergency communication plan protect your windows permanent shutters are the best protection a lower-cost option is to put up plywood panels cut 1/2 inch plywood to fit each window marine plywood is best remember to mark which board fits which window pre-drill holes every 18 inches for screws trim back dead and weak branches from trees check into flood insurance After a hurricane... stay tuned to a local radio station for information help trapped/injured people give first aid when appropriate don't move a seriously injured person unless thay are in immediate danger of future injury-call for help return home only after authorities advise that it is safe to do so avoid loose/dangling power lines and report them immediately enter your home with caution beware of snakes, insects, and other animals open windows and doors to venilate/dry your home check refrigerated foods for spoilage take pictures of damage, both to the house and its contents, for insurance claims drive only when absolutely necessary and avoid flooded roads and washed-out bridges use telephone only for emergency calls Before & After Evacuation Clean Water Editor's Letters