National Hurricane Preparedness Week May 5-11

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National Hurricane Preparedness Week, observed May 5 to 11, kicks off this year's hurricane season. It's a great time to learn how to be prepared for hurricanes and know what to do. Even though West Virginia is a landlocked state, we can experience very high winds and even tornados like we had in April. In addition, many West Virginians vacation at the beach during hurricane season and should be informed and aware of what to do, just in case. 

Know your Risk & Be Prepared

It's vital to assess your risk and begin preparations early. Consider the following:

• Hurricanes and other types of high windstorms cause wind damage and storm surges for those who are near the coast. Check to see if you live in a flood-prone area, for instance in West Virginia it may be an area near a creek or river.

• Stock up on essential supplies like non-perishable food, water, medications, flashlights, and batteries.
• Save copies of essential documents (like insurance policies, bank accounts, etc.) in a fire and waterproof safe offsite, or in the cloud to ensure you can access them if you need them.
• Reinforce windows, doors, and roofs to help protect your home.  
• Cut away trees and shrubs from around your house.
• Secure or bring outdoor furniture or loose items inside.  
• If vacationing near the coast, learn the hurricane emergency protocol for the city and the place (hotel, campsite, etc.) you will be staying.   

Be Informed

If it is Hurricane, or other type of severe weather, KNOW the different types of alerts:

• A Weather Alert – is less serious conditions, may be occurring, imminent or likely.

• A Weather Watch – means there are favorable conditions for it to happen, but the location or timing is still uncertain so you must keep track of forecasts.
• A Weather Warning, which means it is imminent or happening now. It poses a threat to life or property, and you need to take protective action now!  

Stay informed by monitoring weather forecasts and official alerts. Emergency Apps can help you be prepared and stay informed. Here a few to consider:

• FEMA App - helps you to plan for disaster; know how and when to protect during disasters; and to provides tools for recovery.   
• American Red Cross Emergency App – this FREE App  provides step-by-step guides, weather alerts, and can help you locate nearby Red Cross shelters.
• OR Bookmark NOAA's www.mobile.weather.gov  to get the latest weather news and information on the go.

Learn more at American Red Cross, NOAA and at FEMA's Ready.gov

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