Beryl

Hurricane Emergency Preparedness Plan

Secure IoT House

Secure IoT House

— 10 min read
Hurricane Emergency Preparedness Plan
Photo by NASA / Unsplash

Creating a comprehensive emergency preparedness plan for a hurricane like Beryl involves considering various aspects to ensure safety and minimize damage. Here is a detailed plan that can be utilized at home:

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1. Understand the Risk

  • Know Your Hurricane Risk: Identify if your home is in a hurricane-prone area.
  • Stay Informed: Monitor local news and weather channels for updates on the hurricane's path and intensity.

2. Create a Family Emergency Plan

  • Communication Plan:
    • Establish a family communication plan to stay in touch with each other during the hurricane.
    • Choose an out-of-state contact person for everyone to check in with.
  • Evacuation Plan:
    • Identify multiple evacuation routes.
    • Designate a safe meeting place if family members get separated.
  • Emergency Contacts:
    • List of emergency contacts (family, friends, local authorities, medical facilities).

3. Prepare an Emergency Kit

  • Basic Supplies:
    • Water: At least one gallon per person per day for at least three days.
    • Food: Non-perishable food for at least three days.
    • Battery-powered or hand-crank radio and NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert.
    • Flashlights and extra batteries.
    • First aid kit.
    • Whistle to signal for help.
    • Dust masks to help filter contaminated air and plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter-in-place.
    • Moist towelettes, garbage bags, and plastic ties for personal sanitation.
    • Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities.
    • Manual can opener for food.
    • Local maps.
    • Cell phone with chargers and a backup battery.

4. Home Preparation

  • Structural Safety:
    • Install storm shutters or board up windows with plywood.
    • Secure loose outdoor items (furniture, decorations, garbage cans).
    • Trim trees and shrubs to minimize damage from broken branches.
    • Reinforce the garage door.
  • Utilities:
    • Know how to turn off gas, electricity, and water.
    • Consider purchasing a portable generator for emergency power.

5. During the Hurricane

  • Stay Informed:
    • Keep updated with the latest weather reports.
  • Stay Indoors:
    • Stay inside and away from windows and glass doors.
    • Close all interior doors and secure external doors.
  • Emergency Shelter:
    • Seek shelter in a small, windowless room on the lowest level of the home.
  • Evacuation:
    • If advised to evacuate, do so immediately. Follow recommended evacuation routes.

6. Post-Hurricane Actions

  • Safety First:
    • Avoid walking or driving through floodwaters.
    • Be aware of downed power lines and weakened structures.
  • Inspect Your Home:
    • Check for gas leaks, electrical damage, and structural damage.
    • Document any damage for insurance purposes.
  • Communicate:
    • Let family and friends know you are safe.
    • Listen to authorities for information and special instructions.

7. Health and Wellbeing

  • Mental Health:
    • Take care of emotional health and seek support if needed.
  • First Aid:
    • Treat any injuries promptly and seek medical help if necessary.
  • Hygiene:
    • Maintain good hygiene to prevent illness.

8. Community Involvement

  • Stay Connected:
    • Engage with local community groups and emergency services.
  • Volunteer:
    • Consider volunteering with local organizations to help others in need.

9. Review and Update Your Plan

  • Regular Reviews:
    • Review and update your emergency plan and kit annually or as needed.
  • Practice Drills:
    • Conduct regular family drills to ensure everyone knows what to do.

10. Useful Resources

By following this comprehensive plan, individuals and families can better prepare for and respond to a hurricane like Beryl, ensuring safety and resilience.

Here's a list of food items for a family of four (two adults, two children aged 10-14) to last for at least three days in the event of a hurricane. These items are non-perishable and easy to store:

Non-Perishable Food Items

Water

  • Quantity: At least 12 gallons (1 gallon per person per day for 3 days)
    • Consider additional water for cooking and sanitation.

Canned Goods

  • Vegetables: Green beans, corn, peas, carrots
    • Quantity: 12 cans
  • Fruits: Peaches, pears, pineapple, mixed fruit
    • Quantity: 12 cans
  • Proteins: Tuna, chicken, beans, chili, peanut butter
    • Quantity: 12 cans/tins
  • Soups and Stews: Chicken noodle soup, beef stew, tomato soup
    • Quantity: 12 cans

Dry Goods

  • Rice: Instant or pre-cooked
    • Quantity: 2-3 pounds
  • Pasta: Any variety (macaroni, spaghetti, etc.)
    • Quantity: 2-3 pounds
  • Cereal: Non-sugary types preferred
    • Quantity: 2 large boxes
  • Oatmeal: Instant packets
    • Quantity: 1 large box

Snack Foods

  • Crackers: Saltines, graham crackers
    • Quantity: 4 boxes
  • Granola Bars: Mixed varieties
    • Quantity: 2 large boxes
  • Nuts and Seeds: Mixed nuts, sunflower seeds
    • Quantity: 2-3 pounds
  • Dried Fruit: Raisins, apricots, cranberries
    • Quantity: 2-3 pounds

Beverages

  • Juice Boxes: 100% juice
    • Quantity: 1-2 packs (8-12 boxes per pack)
  • Shelf-stable Milk: Powdered milk or boxed milk
    • Quantity: 3-4 quarts

Comfort Foods

  • Cookies: Packaged varieties
    • Quantity: 2-3 packs
  • Chocolate/Candy: Shelf-stable treats
    • Quantity: 1-2 packs

Cooking Essentials

  • Cooking Oil: Small bottle of vegetable or olive oil
    • Quantity: 1 small bottle
  • Salt and Pepper: Small containers
    • Quantity: 1 of each
  • Spices: Basic spices like garlic powder, chili powder
    • Quantity: 1 small container each

Condiments

  • Sugar or Honey: For sweetening
    • Quantity: 1 small container
  • Jam or Jelly: For spreading on crackers or bread
    • Quantity: 1 jar

Special Dietary Needs

  • Gluten-free, Dairy-free, or other specialty items: As needed for family members with dietary restrictions

Tips for Storing Food

  • Rotate Stock: Use and replace stored food regularly to keep it fresh.
  • Check Expiration Dates: Ensure that all items are within their shelf life.
  • Store in a Cool, Dry Place: Keep your emergency food supplies in a location that is easy to access but protected from extreme temperatures and moisture.

Additional Items to Consider

  • Manual Can Opener: Ensure you have a way to open canned goods without electricity.
  • Disposable Utensils and Plates: For easy clean-up when water is limited.
  • Napkins and Paper Towels: For cleanliness and hygiene.
  • Trash Bags: For waste disposal.

By having these items prepared, your family will be better equipped to handle the aftermath of a hurricane and ensure everyone stays nourished and hydrated.

Here's a detailed list of contacts and information to have on hand during a hurricane, along with signs and stages for evacuation and relocation:

Essential Contacts

Emergency Services

  1. Emergency Numbers:
    • 911 for immediate emergencies.
    • Local Police Department: [Local number]
    • Local Fire Department: [Local number]
  2. Hospitals and Medical Centers:
    • Nearest Hospital: [Name, address, phone number]
    • Urgent Care Clinics: [Names, addresses, phone numbers]
    • Family Doctor/Pediatrician: [Name, phone number]

Weather and News

  1. National Weather Service (NWS):
  2. Local News Stations:
    • TV and Radio Stations: [Channel numbers and frequencies]
    • Local News Websites: [URLs]

Government and Local Authorities

  1. Local Emergency Management Office:
    • Website: [URL]
    • Phone: [Local number]
  2. City or County Office:
    • Website: [URL]
    • Phone: [Local number]
  3. State Emergency Management Agency:
    • Website: [URL]
    • Phone: [State number]

Utility Companies

  1. Electricity Provider:
    • Customer Service: [Phone number]
    • Outage Reporting: [Phone number or website]
  2. Water and Sewage Provider:
    • Customer Service: [Phone number]
  3. Gas Provider:
    • Customer Service: [Phone number]

Insurance Providers

  1. Homeowners/Renters Insurance:
    • Company Name: [Phone number, policy number]
  2. Auto Insurance:
    • Company Name: [Phone number, policy number]

Family and Friends

  1. Out-of-State Contact Person:
    • Name: [Phone number]
  2. Nearby Relatives and Friends:
    • Names and Phone Numbers

Evacuation and Relocation Signs and Stages

Stage 1: Preparation

  • Monitor Updates:
    • Keep track of weather updates and alerts.
    • Ensure emergency kit and supplies are ready.
  • Signs to Watch:
    • Hurricane Watch issued (conditions possible within 48 hours).

Stage 2: Pre-Evacuation

  • Prepare to Leave:
    • Pack essential items and documents (ID, insurance papers, medications).
    • Secure your home (shutters, outdoor items).
  • Signs to Watch:
    • Hurricane Warning issued (conditions expected within 36 hours).
    • Mandatory evacuation orders from local authorities.

Stage 3: Evacuation

  • Execute Evacuation Plan:
    • Follow designated evacuation routes.
    • Leave early to avoid traffic congestion.
    • Inform family and friends of your location and status.
  • Signs to Watch:
    • Rising water levels.
    • High winds and worsening weather conditions.

Stage 4: Shelter and Relocation

  • Find Safe Shelter:
    • Go to a designated shelter if needed.
    • Stay with family or friends outside the evacuation zone.
  • Stay Informed:
    • Continue monitoring weather reports and updates.
  • Signs to Watch:
    • Sustained high winds, heavy rainfall, flooding.

Stage 5: Return and Recovery

  • Wait for Clearance:
    • Return home only when authorities declare it safe.
  • Inspect and Repair:
    • Check for damage to your home and property.
    • Document damage for insurance claims.
  • Signs to Watch:
    • Official communication that it is safe to return.
    • Clear weather and receding floodwaters.

Additional Resources

  1. FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency):
  2. American Red Cross:

By having this comprehensive list of contacts and understanding the stages of evacuation and signs to look for, you can ensure your family’s safety and readiness during a hurricane.

For Beryl we had on July 9th 2024 at noon; marjor roads had closures, gas pumps have the yellow out of fuel bags, grocery stores have limited food, lines everywhere in the streets with outages on stop lights but fast foods are open causing extra people on the road with high levels of floods on major arteries of highway. Some people have power and some don't and it's 104 out in Houston.

In such a chaotic and challenging scenario, prioritizing safety, resource management, and clear communication becomes crucial. Here is a detailed plan to navigate these conditions:

Emergency Action Plan

Immediate Safety Measures

  1. Stay Informed:
    • Continuously monitor local news, weather updates, and emergency broadcasts via battery-powered radios or mobile devices if possible.
    • Use social media platforms and community apps for real-time updates on road closures and available resources.
  2. Avoid Flooded Areas:
    • Do not attempt to drive through flooded roads or highways. Even shallow floodwaters can be dangerous.
    • Identify and use alternative routes that are confirmed to be passable.
  3. Stay Indoors if Safe:
    • If your home is safe and you have supplies, stay indoors to avoid unnecessary travel and exposure to hazards.
    • Keep away from windows and move to higher floors if flooding is a risk.

Resource Management

  1. Conserve Fuel:
    • Limit use of vehicles to essential travel only.
    • Carpool with neighbors or community members if travel is necessary.
  2. Food and Water:
    • Ration food and water supplies to ensure they last.
    • Use non-perishable food items first and avoid opening the refrigerator frequently to keep perishables safe if the power is out.
  3. Power Management:
    • Use battery-powered lights and devices sparingly.
    • Charge essential devices like phones using car chargers or power banks.
    • Consider sharing resources like generators with neighbors.

Communication

  1. Emergency Contacts:
    • Keep in touch with family, friends, and emergency contacts to inform them of your status and any immediate needs.
    • Use text messages instead of calls to save battery and reduce network congestion.
  2. Community Coordination:
    • Connect with neighbors to share resources and information.
    • Establish a community watch or support group to help vulnerable individuals.

Health and Wellbeing

  1. Heat Management:
    • Stay hydrated and drink plenty of water.
    • Wear light, loose-fitting clothing and stay in the coolest part of your home.
    • Avoid strenuous activities and stay indoors during the hottest part of the day.
  2. Medical Needs:
    • Ensure you have a supply of necessary medications.
    • Know the locations of the nearest open medical facilities or emergency shelters.

Emergency Evacuation

  1. Plan Alternative Routes:
    • Identify multiple evacuation routes and have a map on hand in case GPS services are down.
    • Avoid major highways with known flooding and use smaller, local roads if necessary.
  2. Shelters and Safe Locations:
    • Locate the nearest emergency shelters and check their availability and accessibility.
    • Consider staying with family or friends outside the affected area if possible.
  3. Emergency Services:
    • Contact local emergency management offices for information on safe evacuation routes and shelters.
    • If in immediate danger, call 911 and provide your location and situation.

Checklist for Emergency Kit

  • Water: At least 1 gallon per person per day for at least 3 days.
  • Food: Non-perishable items for at least 3 days.
  • Battery-powered or hand-crank radio: With NOAA Weather Radio tone alert.
  • Flashlights and extra batteries.
  • First aid kit.
  • Medications: At least a week’s supply and other medical items.
  • Multi-purpose tool and duct tape.
  • Sanitation and personal hygiene items.
  • Cell phone with chargers and backup batteries.
  • Important documents: Copies of insurance policies, identification, bank account records.
  • Cash: In small denominations.
  • Local maps.
  • Emergency contact information.

Additional Tips

  • Stay Calm: In chaotic situations, keeping a level head is crucial for making sound decisions.
  • Help Others: Assist neighbors, especially the elderly, disabled, and families with young children.
  • Report Hazards: Inform local authorities of downed power lines, gas leaks, or other immediate dangers.

By following these steps and remaining vigilant, you can better manage the complexities and dangers of a severe hurricane aftermath. Safety and resource management are key to navigating such challenging situations.

In preparing for a severe hurricane scenario, where resources may be scarce and infrastructure compromised, having adequate supplies and backup systems is critical. Below is a detailed list of items and quantities to consider, including fuel, ammunition, money, precious metals, backups for internet, solar power, and other essentials.

Fuel

  • Gasoline/Diesel:
    • Quantity: At least 10-20 gallons stored in approved fuel containers.
    • Purpose: Powering vehicles and generators.
    • Storage Tips: Store in a cool, well-ventilated area, away from living spaces. Use fuel stabilizers to extend the shelf life.

Ammunition and Firearms

  • Firearms:
    • Types: One or more, depending on personal preference and local regulations (e.g., a handgun for personal defense, a rifle for hunting).
  • Ammunition:
    • Quantity: At least 500 rounds for each firearm.
    • Storage Tips: Store in a cool, dry place, preferably in a locked and secure container.

Money and Precious Metals

  • Cash:
    • Quantity: At least $500-$1000 in small denominations.
    • Purpose: For immediate purchases when electronic transactions are unavailable.
  • Precious Metals:
    • Types: Gold and silver coins or small bars.
    • Quantity: Equivalent to at least $1,000 in value.
    • Purpose: As a hedge against currency devaluation and for trade/barter.

Backup Internet and Communications

  • Mobile Hotspot:
    • Device: A battery-powered mobile hotspot with a data plan.
    • Purpose: Accessing the internet when home connections are down.
  • Satellite Phone:
    • Device: A reliable satellite phone.
    • Purpose: Communication when cellular networks are unavailable.
  • Two-Way Radios:
    • Devices: At least two radios with a range of several miles.
    • Purpose: Local communication among family members and neighbors.

Solar Power and Backup Energy

  • Solar Panels:
    • Capacity: At least 100W portable solar panel.
    • Purpose: Charging batteries and small devices.
  • Battery Banks:
    • Devices: Multiple portable power stations or battery banks (e.g., BougeRV 220Wh Portable Power Station).
    • Purpose: Powering essential electronics and small appliances.
  • Inverter Generator:
    • Device: A quiet, efficient inverter generator (e.g., Honda EU2200i).
    • Purpose: Providing backup power for essential home appliances and devices.

Additional Essentials

  • Water Purification:
    • Devices: Water purification tablets, a portable water filter (e.g., LifeStraw), and a gravity-fed water filter system.
    • Purpose: Ensuring access to clean drinking water.
  • Food Supplies:
    • Types: Non-perishable food items, freeze-dried meals, and high-calorie snacks.
    • Quantity: At least a two-week supply for each family member.
  • Medical Supplies:
    • First Aid Kit: Comprehensive kit with bandages, antiseptics, pain relievers, and prescription medications.
    • Purpose: Addressing minor injuries and medical needs.
  • Personal Hygiene:
    • Items: Moist towelettes, garbage bags, plastic ties, hand sanitizer, and toilet paper.
    • Purpose: Maintaining hygiene and sanitation.

Planning and Organization

  • Inventory List:
    • Create and Maintain: An up-to-date inventory of all supplies, including expiration dates for food and medication.
  • Emergency Binder:
    • Contents: Copies of important documents (insurance policies, identification, medical records), emergency contact numbers, and maps of evacuation routes.
  • Drills and Training:
    • Regular Drills: Conduct family drills to ensure everyone knows how to use emergency supplies and follows the evacuation plan.
    • Training: Basic first aid and self-defense training for all family members.

Tips for Implementation

  • Stay Informed: Regularly update your knowledge on hurricane preparedness and stay informed about upcoming storms.
  • Community Support: Coordinate with neighbors and local community groups for mutual aid and resource sharing.
  • Adaptability: Be prepared to adapt plans based on the specific situation and available resources.

By maintaining these supplies and plans, you can significantly increase your family's resilience and safety during and after a severe hurricane.

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