Forecasters say that Hurricane Hilary is coming your way. You should start preparing if you are residing in an affected area. So what do you need to do first? First, don't freak out. There are a lot of things you can do to keep yourself, your family, and your property safe.
What to do as the storm approaches
Stay inside
Windows and doors should be protected with permanent storm shutters or plywood
Keep local radio and TV stations on for new information on storm or Hurricane
Download the Red Cross emergency app (for iPhone and Android)
Keep a hurricane lamp
Make sure all pets have identification tags
Store all lawn furniture and gardening tools inside to protect them from getting blown away
Find local emergency shelters
Fill plastic bottles with drinking water
Fill bathtubs with water
Fill your car's gas tank
Unplug all small devices and turn off propane tanks
Buy a fire extinguisher
Learn evacuation routes in your area
Preparing for a storm: what you should have on hand
First aid kit and instructions
Fire extinguisher
Flashlights
Extra batteries
Sleeping bag and blankets
Cooking and eating utensils
a week-long supply of prescription medicines
Paper plates, cups, and towels
Non-perishable/canned foods
Jumper cables
Maps
Roadside emergency kit
GPS
Cell phones and chargers
Cash
Toilet paper
Disinfectant
Plastic bucket with tight lid
Plastic garbage bags
Household bleach
Feminine supplies
Soap
Wet wipes
Rain gear
Sturdy shoes
Take note of the distinction between a Hurricane "watch" and "warning."
You can get National Weather Service warnings on TV, radio, or the internet.
An area under a hurricane watch is at risk of experiencing hurricane conditions, defined as sustained winds of 74 miles per hour (mph) or higher. Hurricane watches are issued 48 hours before forecasters anticipate the onset of tropical storm-force winds (continuous winds of 39 to 73 mph).
A hurricane warning is more serious. That area is predicted to be hit by hurricane-force winds. The experts issue these warnings 36 hours before the area is expected to be hit by tropical storm-force winds.