The key to successfully weathering a tropical storm - or worse - a hurricane, is being prepared.
Have a plan and enough supplies to address the effects of flooding, wind damage and short to long term power failure.
You will need fuel - either kerosene, propane or charcoal - for portable lamps, stoves and barbeque grills. Also fresh batteries for flashlights and radios.
Store perishable foods and drinking water with ice in coolers and water jugs.
Heavy duty trash bags not only serve for cleaning up, but can also be used as a waterproof "container" for irreplaceable items such as family photo albums and financial records. Or consider puting these items in plastic storage bins with snap-down lids.
Protect furniture, appliances and other large valuables with polysheeting. Tarps can be used temporarily where roofing has been damaged.
If high winds or a hurricane is expected, use rope to tie down loose outdoor items such as patio furniture. If not secured, high wind gusts will turn loose objects into hazardous projectiles.
Board up windows with plywood at least 1/2" thick. Apply masking tape to exposed windows for reinforcement and to prevent injury from shattered glass in case of breakage.
Reinforce roof rafters and posts with hurricane ties. This is also a good time to reinforce other key structural frame points of your home with steel construction ties.
First Aid kits include bandages, gauze, scissors, tweezers, cold packs, antiseptic wipes, burn ointments and antibiotic ointments. In case of an injury, the First Aid Kit will be your first line of defense to prevent swelling, infection and/or excessive blood loss.
Telephone land lines should only be used in the event of an emergency. If you have a cellular phone, make sure its battery is fully charged. A car charger is handy to have.
Store enough non-perishable food and bottled water for your household to last at least 3 days.
Be sure your vehicle has enough fuel - preferably a full tank.
Know where the nearest shelter is located and have a plan ready in the event you are asked or ordered to evacuate.
Pick-up a copy of HECO's Emergency Preparedness Handbook - available at all City Mill neighborhood locations.
