It is imperative to be as prepared as possible if a tropical system threatens your home. Scroll below for an excellent guide from the Louisiana Governor's Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness with a detailed emergency supply checklist, wind and flood preparation, evacuation routes, sheltering information, and much more useful data.
Things to do before a storm hits:
- Run your generator to make sure it works smoothly
- Consider sandbags
- Choose windowless interior room in case of high winds/tornado and rid room of potential projectiles that could fly off shelves/topple
- Gather important documents and place them in waterproof container/bag (birth certificates, social security cards, insurance, bank info, etc.)
- Consider communication options in case of power, phone service, and internet outages
- Fill vehicle gas tanks and gas cans for generator
- Maintain full battery charge on phones and electronics in case of power outage
- If home is in danger of flooding, locate an axe for puncturing attic/roof if you need to get to higher ground
- Secure outdoor items that wind could project through windows or neighbors' yards (trampolines, dog houses, etc.)
Supplies you may need in case of power outages or area storm damage:
- Water (for drinking and sanitation)
- Nonperishable food items
- Manual can opener
- Flashlights
- Batteries
- Phone and electronics chargers (car chargers if power goes out)
- Radio (battery powered or hand crank)
- Moist towelettes and garbage bags
- Gasoline (vehicle and generator)
- Portable fans
- Baby supplies (formula, diapers, etc.)
- Pet food
- Cash (in case of power outage at local stores/restaurants)
- Important ID cards/forms, insurance forms, bank account forms, etc. in waterproof pouch