After a Hurricane: Safety Checklist
What should you do after a hurricane? Save this safety checklist of tasks you should do after a hurricane.
-
Continue listening to a NOAA Weather Radio or the local news for the latest updates.
-
Stay alert for extended rainfall and subsequent flooding even after the hurricane or tropical storm has ended.
-
If you evacuated, return home only when officials say it is safe.
-
Drive only if necessary and avoid flooded roads and washed-out bridges.
-
Keep away from loose or dangling power lines and report them immediately to the power company.
-
Stay out of any building that has water around it.
-
Inspect your home for damage. Take pictures of damage, both of the building and its contents, for insurance purposes.
-
Use flashlights in the dark. Do NOT use candles.
-
Avoid drinking or preparing food with tap water until you are sure it’s not contaminated.
-
Check refrigerated food for spoilage. If in doubt, throw it out.
-
Wear protective clothing and be cautious when cleaning up to avoid injury.
-
Watch animals closely and keep them under your direct control.
-
Use the telephone only for emergency calls.
-
Important Links
-
American Red Cross: http://www.redcross.org
-
American Red Cross Safety and Well Bell Being Registration: https://safeandwell.communityos.org/cms/index.php
-
If you don’t have Internet access, call 1-866-GET-INFO to register yourself and your family.
Related Checklists
