MCRD/ERR PARRIS ISLAND, S.C. -- Realizing that they just had a near miss with a destructive hurricane, Depot personnel and their families should ensure that they are properly prepared for future storms. Families should now ask themselves, "Are we ready?"
There are many resources available that can both educate and prepare a family for dealing with a hurricane's destructive force.
A few minutes of research on the Internet can produce more than enough information on proper safety and preparation techniques that can provide an increased peace of mind during the last two months of the hurricane season.
The following tips highlight some pertinent information:
? Tip 1: Put aside money - Have some cash, and carry credit cards. Also, be sure to have a copy of insurance policies.
? Tip 2: Plan an escape route - Have multiple escape routes and know the proper govern-
ment evacuation routes. Make sure your car's fuel tank is filled and your mobile phone is charged.
? Tip 3: Plan an escape trip - Identify ahead of time somewhere to go if told to evacuate. Choose several places, like a friend's home in another town, a motel and a shelter.
? Tip 4: Prepare a supply kit - Assemble a disaster kit with the following items:
a. First-aid kit and any essential medications
b. Canned food and can opener
c. At least three gallons of water per person
d. Protective clothing, rainwear and bedding or sleeping bags
e. Battery-powered radio, flashlight and extra batteries
f. Special items for infants, elderly or disabled family members
g. Written instructions on how to turn off electricity, gas and water if authorities advise doing so (remember, a professional is needed to turn them back on)
? Tip 5: Prepare interiors - If evacuating, unplug all electrical devices. Shut off natural gas if local officials advise it and make sure to have a sufficient supply of batteries for battery-powered equipment.
? Tip 6: Prepare exteriors - Secure homes by boarding windows or putting up hurricane shutters. If using boards, purchase pre-cut one-half-inch outdoor plywood boards for each window. Install anchors and drill holes in the plywood ahead of time, so it can be installed quickly.
? Tip 7: Clear dead trees - In wooded areas, make trees more wind-resistant by taking out diseased and damaged limbs, and strategically remove branches so wind can blow through.
? Tip 8: Avoid danger areas - Move to safe shelters. Low-lying areas and mobile homes should be evacuated.
? Tip 9: Stay informed - Monitor weather advisories on the radio and television. If advised to evacuate, do so immediately.
? Tip 10: Clean up the yard - If a hurricane watch is issued, prepare to bring inside any lawn furniture, trampolines, outdoor decorations or ornaments, trash cans, hanging plants and anything else that can be picked up by the wind.
There are many other ways for families to better prepare for dangerous weather, and many other problems that can develop from a hurricane. For an examination of hurricane conditions and preparations visit www.nefloridaredcross.org/uploads/files/AreYouReadyForAHurricane.pdf. or www.cnn.com/WEATHER/.