The 2020 hurricane season has been extremely active,
with many storms coming near to the New Orleans area and yet another headed right
this way. Whether you plan to stay home or evacuate, it is always best to be
prepared in the event of emergencies. Since having a hurricane plan is essential
for Louisiana residents, listed below are preparation tips and safety measures
to consider in order to help you and your family stay safe throughout the hurricane
season.
Stay connected and aware
To get up-to-date weather, hurricane, or storm information, be sure to watch
the news or weather-related channels to stay aware of what is happening in the
city and surrounding areas. If you want live alerts, you can sign up for NOLA
Ready's emergency alert by texting ZETA to 888777 to receive continuing updates
to your phone about Hurricane Zeta and other storm surges.
Stock necessary supplies
If you plan to shelter at home or leave and evacuate, make sure you stock up or
pack necessities for you and your family. At home, it is best to have canned or
non-perishable food, a manual can opener, gallons or bottles of water,
flashlights, extra batteries/chargers, lighters/matches, and a first aid kit. If
packing a go-bag, ensure essentials are included, such as clothes, food,
toiletries (soap, toothpaste, and toothbrush), personal documentation (driver's
license, ID, social security cards, birth certificates, etc.), cash, bedding, and
a list of emergency contacts. In the midst of the pandemic, it is also best to
have extra hand sanitizer, face masks, etc., in case.
House preparation
In the event of outages, you can house-prep both inside and outside to prepare
for tropical weather. Make sure that your cell phone and other electronic
devices are charged, and you can also purchase ice bags and an ice cooler to
keep inside your home to help keep food or drinks cold. Outside, you can stormproof
your home with sandbags or cover windows with storm shutters or plywood, if
necessary. You can also secure your property by removing gutter debris,
securing boats or recreational vehicles, checking your roof and sides for
loosening pieces, and bringing outdoor pets inside.
Here's hoping that the storm misses us, but be careful, be aware, be ready, and
stay safe!
