One of the most dramatic, damaging and potentially damaging weather events that occur in this country is a hurricane. Fortunately, there are measures that can be taken by individuals and communities before a hurricane strikes to reduce vulnerability to hurricane hazards.
During a hurricane, homes, businesses, public buildings, roads and power lines may be damaged or destroyed by high winds and floodwaters. Debris can break windows and doors. Roads and bridges can be washed away by flash flooding or blocked by debris.
The force of wind alone can cause tremendous devastation, toppling trees and power lines and undermining weak areas of buildings.
These storms cost our nation millions, if not billions, of dollars in damage annually. But there are ways to offset such destruction. Simple construction measures, such as placing storm shutters over exposed glass or installing hurricane straps on roofs, have proved effective in lessening damage when hurricanes strike.
Communities can reduce vulnerability to hurricanes by adopting and enforcing building codes for wind and flood resistance. Sound land-use planning also can ensure that structures are not built in high-hazard areas.
A goal of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security/FEMA is to help prevent future damage from disasters by providing information as well as direct, hands-on help when needed. Building disaster- resistant communities is an achievable goal. It requires action by individuals, businesses and local governments. Working together, we can reduce the number of lives, property and businesses lost the next time a hurricane strikes.
Prepare a Family Disaster Plan Now
A well-thought-out plan of action for you and your family can go a long way toward reducing potential suffering from any type of disaster that could strike. With hurricane season upon us, preparing your family disaster plan is the first step.
Household emergency plans should be kept simple. The best emergency plans are those that are easy to remember.
Maintaining a link to the outside can be crucial. Keep a battery-operated radio and extra batteries on hand as part of your disaster supply kit. Make sure family members know where the radio is kept. Be sure to include pets in your family disaster plan.
Post emergency numbers (fire, police, ambulance) by the phone. Teach children how to call 911 for help.
Teach responsible family members how to turn off the utilities in your home.
Identify family meeting places in case you are separated. Choose a place in a building or park outside your neighborhood. Everyone should be clear about this location. Develop an emergency communication plan. Ask an out-of-state relative or friend to serve as the family's contact. Make sure everyone knows the telephone number of this contact.
Be familiar with escape routes in case you need to evacuate your neighborhood. Plan several escape routes for different contingencies.
For more information visit www.ready.gov on the Internet or, for printed information, call 800-BE-READY.