INDIAN RIVER COUNTY — The toughest part of the storm can be the waiting – waiting for it to arrive, waiting for it to pass and then waiting until all is clear to get on with cleanup and post-storm activities. The Indian River County Disaster Preparedness guide offers some pointers on what to do, and what not to do, before and during a storm. To download the whole booklet, go to www.irces.com.
- Keep track of the advisories issued by the weather forecasters (locations, strength and movement of the hurricane).
- Protect your home. Cover all windows and sliding glass doors with a hard covering. Hurricane shutters can protect your home from extensive storm damage. A hard window covering will minimize damage from wind-thrown debris and wind pressure, which can break windows. Remember, garage doors should also be reinforced.
- Secure outdoor objects (debris) or bring them indoors.
- Check the battery, oil, water and fuel your car.
- Check the contents of your Disaster Supplies Kit.
- Make prior arrangements for the safety of your pets. They will not be allowed in public shelters.
If an evacuation order is not recommended, stay indoors and away from windows during the hurricane. Do not be fooled if there is a lull, this could be the eye of the storm and winds will pick up once again. Listen to the local media for information on the storm.
Turn the temperature control on your refrigerator and freezer to the coldest setting. If the power goes off and the doors are kept tightly closed, a refrigerator will keep food for up to 24 hours or more, a freezer up to 48 hours or more. Insulate the outside of both the refrigerator and freezer with blankets. This will aid in keeping both appliances cool.
Avoid using the telephone except for emergencies.
Go to a shelter as a last resort. Wait until shelter openings and locations are announced on local media. Not all shelters will be open, go to the first open shelter as soon as possible. Do not expect luxury accommodations at the shelters. Pets, alcohol and firearms will be forbidden.
