Storm’s coming? Are you ready?

WHEN A HURRICANE WATCH IS ANNOUNCED

This means hurricane weather conditions are expected in your area within 36 hours.

When the National Weather Service announces a hurricane watch, Louisianans should be ready to put preparations into action and get ready for the storm. Review your evacuation plans, determine how to reach emergency assistance and family members. Check your personal hurricane emergency kit, then take these steps to get ready for the storm. Always listen to your local officials regarding evacuations. Coastal parishes may be asked to evacuate when a storm is 51 hours from landfall.

INSIDE your home …

• Put heavy furniture against doors, especially sliding glass doors, for added wind protection.

• If you plan to leave a car in the garage, back it up against the closed door.

• Move valuables to upper floors.

• Protect appliances and furniture from flooding by elevating them off the floor and covering them with plastic.

• Make as much ice as can be stored in the freezer. Set the refrigerator to maximum cold, and try not to open it after the power goes out.

• Recharge emergency equipment, such as electric drills, tools, cellular phones and batteries.

OUTSIDE your home …

• Install storm shutters or plywood over outside windows, doors, skylights, and open vents. Remove loose objects from the yard and patio.

• Prune dead or dying tree limbs.

• Tie down any objects that cannot be brought inside such as propane tanks, swing sets, etc.

• If you have a pool, fill it to a foot below the edge. Add additional chlorine. Turn off electricity to pool and cover the filter pump.

IMPORTANT ERRANDS …

• Purchase fresh and extra batteries for emergency radio and flashlights.

• Refill prescription medications and obtain an extra supply of special medications or supplies.

• Purchase additional nonperishable food. Don’t forget pet food or special dietary supplies.

• Keep your vehicles filled with gas.

• Get extra cash from the bank. Don’t count on ATMs after a storm.

WHEN A HURRICANE WARNING IS ANNOUNCED …

This means hurricane conditions are expected in your area within 24 hours.

When the National Weather Service announces a hurricane warning for Louisiana, a storm with winds over 74 mph will strike within 24 hours.

Twenty-four hours prior to the storm, take the final steps necessary to keep yourself and your family safe. Check your personal emergency kit, then get ready for the storm.

If you are told to evacuate …

• Listen to local television or radio stations for official bulletins and shelter announcements.

• Act immediately and in daylight if possible.

• Wrap or store items subject to water damage in watertight containers.

• Pack enough clothing for five days. Empty your freezer and refrigerator and remove all perishable food items.

• Take your portable emergency kit with you.

• Tape a note inside your home (maybe on the refrigerator) saying you evacuated and listing your contact information in case emergency officials need to enter while you are away.

• Turn off utilities.

• Lock home securely.

• Travel with care, avoid low-lying areas and use recommended routes.

• Carry your transistor radio, flashlight and valuables (unless stored in a safe deposit box) with you.

If your house is secure, on high ground, and your area has not been advised to evacuate …

• Bring pets inside.

• Secure and brace external doors and close all interior doors.

• Stay indoors and away from windows, even if they are covered. A small interior room on the first floor is usually the safest place for your family and your disaster kit supplies.

• Store drinking water in clean bathtubs, sinks, bottles, and cooking pots.

• If power goes out, turn off major appliances to avoid a power surge when electricity is restored.

• Be aware that the calm “eye” is deceptive; winds will reappear from the other direction.

• Prepare for tornadoes by seeking shelter.