Hurricanes are powerful and unpredictable natural events that can have devastating impacts on communities.
Being prepared for a storm is crucial to ensure safety for yourself and those around you. Understanding the importance of readiness and how to effectively respond when a hurricane strikes can help mitigate risks and provide a sense of control in challenging situations.
This guide is designed to equip you with the essential knowledge and practical steps to take after a hurricane that will help keep you and your family safe.
Right After the Storm: the First 24 Hours
When the storm is roaring outside, the safest thing to do is to stay indoors until it has completely died down. Even if you evacuated, you should wait until local officials have declared your area safe before returning.
Your first task will be to conduct an initial damage assessment of your surroundings. Safety should be your priority throughout this process, so avoid any unnecessary sightseeing. Try getting in touch with your family members or friends who are outside of the affected area. You should also stay updated with the local media and emergency officials.
During this time, avoid drinking or cooking with the tap water until you receive a notification declaring it safe. Here in Pinellas, for example, the St. Petersburg Mayor’s office announced that they will “most likely” shut off water during Hurricane Milton. When that happens, not only will water be unsafe, but flushing your toilet could actually cause sewage to backup into your home.
Also, while it’s important to help your neighbors out, you should be careful about venturing too far from your safe zone. It’s important to remember not to grill or operate gasoline-powered machinery indoors, and steer clear of flood waters.
The Days after the Storm
In the days following the storm, you should brace yourself for road closures, blockages, and prolonged power outages. During this time, it’s crucial to practice food safety to prevent any potential health risks.
In case the damage renders your premises uninhabitable, find a safe place to relocate or seek help. If there’s a federal Presidential Disaster Declaration, get in touch with FEMA at the earliest.
While repairing your place, only hire licensed professionals to avoid scams. Stay safe while cleaning up and make small repairs as needed. Look after your pets, and be cautious around stray animals.
Amidst all this, remember to talk to your parents. You need to be aware of your mental health, and the mental wellbeing of your family members, too. It’s important to offer support to your parents if they have been through a traumatic incident. Don’t be afraid to lean on those close to you.
Rebuilding & Recovery: Getting Things Back on Track
As you start rebuilding and recovering, it’s essential to prioritize safety and follow guidelines provided by local authorities. If your home was damaged, be sure to document the damage for insurance purposes.
Also, take care of your physical health by staying hydrated and wearing protective gear while cleaning up debris or making repairs. Don’t forget about mental health either- seek professional help if needed.
Also, stay informed about ongoing rescue efforts and updates on restoration of services in your area. Reach out to local resources for assistance with basic needs such as food and shelter. Remember that recovery from a hurricane takes time, but with proper precautions and support, you can get through it together. Let’s stay safe and help each other during these challenging times. Remember, we are all in this together.