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Much of the United States population lives within striking distance of a
summer or early fall hurricane. It is important for people who live
in these areas to have preparation plans well before a hurricane
threatens. Here are some tips that you can use to design and
implement a hurricane preparation plan.
Plan an evacuation route.
Use the City of Palmetto Evacuation Map Contact the local
emergency management office (748-4501) or American Red Cross chapter
(792-8686), and ask for the latest Hurricane Preparedness Guide.
This plan 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 and extra batteries. Portable, battery-operated radio
and extra batteries. First aid kit and manual. Emergency food
and water. Non-electric can opener. Essential medicines.
Cash and credit cards. Sturdy shoes.
Protect your windows.
Permanent shutters are the best protection. A lower-cost approach
is to put up plywood panels. Use 5/6 or 3/4 inch plywood - marine
plywood is best - cut to fit each window. Remember to mark which
board fits which window. Pre-drill holes every 18 inches for screws.
Make arrangements for pets.
Pets may not be allowed into emergency shelters for health and space
reasons. Contact your local humane society for information on local
animal shelters.
Make arrangements for special needs.
Contact Manatee County Emergency Management and pre-register for the
special needs shelter if you have medical needs.
Include all family members in plan.
Teach family members how and when to turn off gas, electricity, and
water. Teach children how and when to call 9-1-1, police or fire
department and which radio station to tune to for emergency information.
Develop an emergency communication plan.
Make sure all family members know how to respond after a
hurricane. Ask an out-of-state relative or friend to serve as the
"family contact". After a disaster, it is often easier to
call long distance. Make sure everyone in the family knows the name,
address and phone number of the contact person.
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