Hurricane Season Preparedness

Hurricane season has arrived in Puerto Rico, and residents must take proactive measures to safeguard themselves, their families, and their homes against the potential impact any storms. Despite the predictions, it is prudent every year to prepare for the worst and hope for the best. Hurricanes are a common occurrence in the Caribbean, and while they bring destruction and disruption, proper preparation can significantly mitigate their effects. They are one of the few downsides to living in the tropics but can be dealt with accordingly if one is prepared. And since June 1 is the start of hurricane season, today is a great day to start preparing!

Understanding Hurricanes and Tropical Storms

Before delving into preparation, it's crucial to understand the nature of hurricanes and tropical storms. These weather phenomena are characterized by strong winds exceeding 74 mph, heavy rainfall, and potential storm surges. Hurricanes are classified into five categories based on their wind speed, with Category 5 being the most severe.

This comprehensive guide explores how to prepare for hurricanes and the essential safety measures to protect yourself and your loved ones. 

Preparedness Before the Storm

Before hurricane season begins, start your preparations to ensure safety. 

• Stay Informed: Keep abreast of weather forecasts and warnings issued by local authorities and trusted sources like NOAA. Familiarize yourself with evacuation routes and emergency contacts.

• Emergency Supplies Kit: Stock up on essential supplies to sustain you and your family during and after the storm. Keep in mind these items will come in handy year-round in the vent we have to deal with a bad earthquake. Here's an expanded list of items to include:

• Food: Ensure you have a variety of non-perishable items such as canned goods, dry fruits, nuts, energy bars, and ready-to-eat meals. Consider dietary restrictions and preferences when stocking up. One advantage of living In the Metro area is usually the restaurants, grocery stores, pharmacies, and more are usually well-prepared and the majority will be operational after the Storm passes

• Water: Store at least one gallon of water per person per day for drinking and sanitation purposes. Bottle water is best for drinking, while a cistern comes in handy for flushing toilets and storing larger quantities of water.

• First Aid Kit: Include bandages, gauze, antiseptic wipes, adhesive tape, pain relievers, scissors, tweezers, thermometer, and any necessary prescription medications.

• Emergency Tools: Pack a multi-tool with various functions, duct tape, work gloves, and a whistle for signaling for help. We learned after Hurricane Maria that having extra cans of “Fix A Flat” was necessary as the debris in the streets constantly caused flat tires. If you are familiar with the use of Chainsaws, axes, shovels, and crowbars, they should be readily accessible as well. Having extra plastic tarps around may come in handy as well.

• Hygiene and Sanitation: Include items such as soap, hand sanitizer, disinfectant wipes, toilet paper, feminine hygiene products, and garbage bags for waste disposal.

• Lighting and Communication: Have multiple flashlights with extra batteries, a solar-powered or hand-crank radio for receiving updates, and a power bank to charge essential devices. Satellite internet services like Starlink could help if there is no power to cell towers, and a satellite phone could come in handy as well.

• Clothing and Bedding: Pack a change of clothes for each family member, including sturdy shoes and rain gear. Additionally, includes blankets, sleeping bags, and comfort items for children.

• Important Documents: Keep copies of vital documents such as identification, insurance policies, medical records, deeds, birth and marriage certificates, financial records, and proof of residence in a waterproof container.

• Pet Supplies: Don't forget about your furry friends. Stock up on pet food, water, medications, and comfort items for your pets.

• Back-Up Power Supply: Having solar panels or a generator available is key to running communication equipment, cooking, and other valuable activities. Be sure to have enough fuel on hand if using a generator. There will be a rush at the gas stations before the storm, so always keep a few gallons handy, just in case.

• CASH: There is a good chance that after a large storm, bank cash machines will run out of money, and store credit card machines will not work. Stock up beforehand with cash, preferably in small bills.

• Entertainment: Having books, board games, and jigsaw puzzles around will help pass the time.

Hurricane Planning 

Family | Friends 

Family planning is a crucial aspect of hurricane preparedness. Create an evacuation plan in case you need to leave your home and establish a meeting point if separated.  Communicate with family and friends outside the island to inform them about your safety and location during the storm.

Designate a Safe Shelter: Identify a designated safe shelter for high winds. If one is not available, choose a small, windowless room on the lowest level of a sturdy building that is not prone to flooding.

Flood Preparedness: Stay alert to the risk of flooding, which can occur suddenly. Develop a plan to evacuate quickly before floodwaters reach you.

Build a Personal Support Network: Create a support network of friends, family, or neighbors who can assist you and whom you can help in return. Ensure everyone knows the plan and how to communicate during an emergency.

Backup Power Sources: Consider investing in backup power sources such as generators or solar-powered chargers to maintain some level of power during outages.

Pet Safety Plan: Plan for the safety of your pets. Know which shelters accept pets or arrange to stay with friends or family in safer areas.

Secure Important Documents

Keep important documents in a waterproof, fireproof container. Ensure you have digital copies stored securely online.

Utilize Local Resources and Safety Measures During Hurricane Season

Local and state authorities in Puerto Rico provide a wide range of resources and safety measures to protect you during hurricane season. These include early warnings from the National Weather Service, designated emergency shelters in vulnerable areas, and established evacuation routes for safe exits from high-risk zones.

Follow the authorities' instructions and stay informed through local media to get updates on the storm's trajectory and intensity. Your safety is the priority, and these measures are designed to protect you and your family during hurricane season.

Stay Informed and Prepared for Hurricane Season!

https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/ 

EMERGENCY CONTACT NUMBERS: 

• State Agency for Emergency Management and Disasters: Contact Number: 787-724-0124 The Agency is responsible for coordinating emergency response efforts in Puerto Rico. They provide vital information, resources, and assistance during crises.

• FEMA - Contact Number: 787-296-3500 The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) plays a crucial role in disaster response and recovery. They provide support and resources to individuals and communities affected by emergencies, including financial assistance and guidance.

• LUMA - Contact Number: (844) 888-5862 LUMA is the company responsible for managing Puerto Rico's electrical grid. In case of power outages or electrical emergencies, contacting LUMA can help ensure a prompt response and restoration of services.

• Firefighters Department - Contact Number: 787-343-2330 The Fire Department is trained to handle fire emergencies, search and rescue operations, and assist during natural disasters. They are equipped with the necessary expertise and resources to protect lives and property.

• National Weather Service: Contact Number: 787-253-4586 monitors weather patterns and issues forecasts, warnings, and alerts. Staying informed about weather conditions is crucial during hurricanes and other severe weather events. They can also be reached via the following website: www.weather.gov 

• Police Department: Contact Number: 787-343-2020 The Police are responsible for maintaining law and order, as well as providing assistance during emergencies. They can offer guidance and coordinate rescue operations when necessary.

• Red Cross of PR - Contact Number: 787-758-8150 The Red Cross is renowned for its humanitarian efforts during emergencies. They provide essential services such as shelter, first aid, and emergency supplies to affected individuals and communities.