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View Full Version : Ticka's Hurricane Preparation List (subject to change)


ticka1
05-09-2008, 02:14 PM
Here is my list. I have it in word format if you would like me to email it to you. Its too big for one post - so I will make it into two posts.

Hurricane Preparations:

If a hurricane enters the GOM

The following list is things we need to do – check off each item as it gets done


Check supplies that need to be purchased and make a list.
Get all insurance/important papers/files in central location
Start working outside in securing or putting away anything that will be a flying object
Monitor all NHC updates – keeping family updated too
Call propane company and get them to come out and fill tank full – for safety reasons and to have propane to cook with after the storm.
If Houston/Galveston area is in the cone and storm is 2-4 days out


Videotape all possessions – giving verbal description on camera of everything and where its located.
Go to store and purchase all supplies needed. Do this before the rush starts. (See general list I have compiled with all basic necessities if we don’t already have them)
Keep monitoring all forecasts from NHC
Get down plywood to cover windows from barn. Get everything need to install – screws and Dewalt Cordless drill.
Put all paperwork, files, pictures and videos in tote to be packed to evacuate or put in safe place in house.
Get all gas cans together and be prepared to fill all up with gas to ensure you have enough for generator/evacuation or after the storm
Start purchasing gasoline for 55 gallon tank – adding fuel additive if necessary
Wash all clothes that will be need for 4-10 days after storm – wash, dry, fold and put away.
Get all prescription medicine in central location – go get refills on pills you will need. Pack in zip-lock bags to keep from getting damaged.

If Storm is 24-48 hours from landfall

o Put all supplies in one centralized location or pack in vehicle if evacuating – packing in large tote.
o Go to bank and pull out cash from hurricane emergency fund. Using debit card if evacuate for expenses.
o Start preparing house – putting up window protection – removing all articles that are outside – securing everything in garage and barn.
o Get generator out with chains and locks – put where we can get it during storm and after – quickly – run it for 30-45 minutes to make sure it runs smoothly.
o Monitor NHC Forecast by the hour
o Give information at work for cellphones and possible evacuation plans or staying during the storm
o Start packing suitcases (do this even if staying or evacuating) with clothes for 4-7 days.
o Help my parents and inlaws if they need any assistance in preparing
o Get all cell phone chargers and pack in central location – keep all charged up 100%
o Pay all bills that need to be paid 4-7 days after storm – make sure you mail them incase postal service is stopped after the storm
o Purchase anything that has not been purchased.
o Fill up containers (milk jugs) and make ice in freezers. Make sure you videotape food in freezers for insurance purposes.
o Make sure you purchase items to clean up with like garbage bags, broom, mop, Clorox and anything else you can think of to assist in making cleaning up after the storm easier.

ticka1
05-09-2008, 02:15 PM
Second post for rest of list.

Storm is 24 hours out from landfall


Decision must be made at this time to evacuate or ride-out storm. With each scenario – I have a separate checklist
Monitor local news channels for evacuation routes and traffic
Put batteries in all flashlights, lanterns, cameras, video cameras, fans, portable radios and television. Plug in manual phone in case electricity goes out and cordless doesn’t work.
Check and double-check lists to make sure everything is done.
Take down all pictures on walls in house – cover with plastic.
Call insurance agent – get claim number for after the storm – keep in cell phone and with important papers. Find out procedures for making claim.
Fill trucks up with gas – keep them topped off until the storm passes.
Double-check everything – if you are evacuating – check on family members – make sure you have everything packed in truck. Leave when you can and safe reach your destination.
Call your vet to ask what you can give you dog/cat to stay calm while riding out the storm.

Storm is 12-8 hours from making landfall


The storm effects will soon be coming ashore – so have all preparations done
If Donny has to leave to go to work at hospitals or datacenter – Chasity, me and dog will go to parents or brother-in-laws in Highlands and ride out the storm.
Make one last inspection of all buildings, windows and objects outside.
Get all paperwork and important items in one tote – make sure this is easily accessible
Pack desktop computer – wrap in plastic along with router, modem and store in bathtub at home
Pack laptop if leaving – taking with me.
Monitor NHC reports and local news for any important information for the local authorities.
Clean house as much as possible – if staying and riding out storm – prepare bathroom as safe room. Bring in blankets, pillows, water, food, lights and radio/television. Everything should be done. Now just waiting for the storm to hit.
Time to store water for after the storm. I have an aqua kit that allows me to fill my tub up with water and keep water in it. I have 4 – 20 gallon water containers that will be filled up.

Storm is making landfall


Stay in house during storm (yeah if you are like me and love to watch the weather – do it safely) all windows should be boarded up.
Electricity will likely go out – so use your flashlights and radio/television to stay on top of situation.
Storm could last anywhere from 8-24 hours – depending on how fast its moving. You have to remember there are two parts to the storm. The eye will pass over if you are in that location and it will be calm. Do NOT venture outside during this time – it could be short-lived then the wind will start from the other direction.
Get sleep if you can. Making sure family, pets and anyone else is safe. Make sure to eat and keep yourself hydrated during this time.
If you have pets – it might be a good idea to keep Benadryl on hand to keep them calm during the storm.
After the storm


Survey the damage – watch for power-lines, falling debris, fallen trees and other items that the storm threw about.
Take pictures with camera and video for insurance purposes and to record the event.
Contact all family members to make sure everyone is safe
Contact supervisor at work – giving them an update and calling to see if and when the office will be open.
Start the cleanup process.

Texas SpeedDiva
05-14-2008, 10:18 AM
GREAT list Ticka. Thanks for posting. I an planning on comparing it to my list this weekend and making any needed additions to my prep list.

BaytownWeatherWatcher
05-14-2008, 10:09 PM
If you have a safe place to store fuel for you generator, it would be wise to go ahead and fill up your gas cans now rather than later. Fuel is going to continue to rise, and I don't think it will be going down in price anytime soon.

Texas SpeedDiva
05-15-2008, 12:28 PM
I'm planning on taking a couple of my gas cans and filling them up this weekend. Not wild about storing it, but a girls gotta mow her yard and be prepared. Plus given the way prices are going up....

BaytownWeatherWatcher
05-15-2008, 10:26 PM
Hey, Ticka, I'd like a copy of your list in Word format. That's a great list!

ticka1
06-02-2008, 01:46 PM
My DD12 offered a great suggestion - keeping all these lists in a binder and putting them in plastic sleeves so we can use markers on the plastic and just wipe that off. So I told her that's her assignment. I will print all the lists out - she will organized and put the binder together so we can put it with the hurricane supplies.