INDIAN RIVER COUNTY — The American Red Cross recommends that people on the Treasure Coast become familiar with hurricane watch and warning messages and plan ahead to reduce the chances of injury or major property damage.
A hurricane watch is issued when weather conditions are favorable for a hurricane to impact a specific geographic area within 36 hours. A warning is issued when hurricane conditions are expected within 24 hours or less.
“Individuals and families should take preventive measures to help ensure their personal safety during a hurricane watch or warning,” said Sarah Ruwe, CEO of the local Chapter.
- Listen for weather updates and hurricane progress reports via crank or battery-operated radio or television. Be prepared to evacuate if local officials advise it.
- Get a crank or battery-operated radio, flashlight and extra batteries.
- Ensure your emergency preparedness kit has the items you need, including a three-day supply of food and water (one gallon per person per day) for evacuation and two-week supply for home , first aid kit, medications (seven day supply), copies of important documents, cash and clothing.
- Fill vehicles with fuel.
- Bring in lawn furniture, bicycles, toys, hanging plants, trash cans, garden tools and anything else that can be picked up by the wind.
- Secure your home by closing all windows and doors and then hurricane shutters. If you don’t have shutters, board up windows and doors with plywood.
- Remove outside antennas if possible and if it can be done safely.
- Turn refrigerators and freezers to coldest setting. Open only when absolutely necessary and close quickly. This will allow perishable food to last longer during a power outage.
- Store valuables and personal papers in a waterproof container on the highest level of your home. Hurricanes can cause water damage inside homes.
- If you have a manufactured or mobile home, check tie-downs. They may be less affected by high winds if they are tied down according to the manufacturer’s instructions.