Guides

Hurricane Safety Cheat Sheet: Essential Guidelines for Preparedness and Recovery

June 18, 2026 · The Clime Team

Hurricanes are powerful and unpredictable natural disasters that can cause significant damage and pose serious risks to life and property. Being prepared and informed is crucial for minimizing these risks. This guide provides essential steps to help you prepare for a hurricane, stay safe during the storm, and recover effectively afterward.

What Should I Do Before a Hurricane?

1. Develop an Emergency Plan

Communication: Establish a family communication plan, including emergency contacts and meeting locations.
Evacuation Routes: Identify multiple evacuation routes and shelters in your area.
Pet Arrangements: Plan for your pets' safety, as many shelters may not accept animals.

2. Assemble an Emergency Kit

Prepare a kit with at least 72 hours' worth of supplies:

Water: One gallon per person per day.
Non-Perishable Food: Items like canned goods and energy bars.
First Aid Supplies: Include necessary medications and a first aid manual.
Flashlights and Batteries: Ensure you have reliable lighting.
Important Documents: Store copies of identification, insurance policies, and medical records.

3. Secure Your Home

Windows and Doors: Install storm shutters or use plywood to protect windows.
Roof and Gutters: Ensure your roof is in good condition and gutters are clear to prevent water damage.
Outdoor Items: Bring in or secure outdoor furniture, grills, and other items that could become projectiles.

4. Stay Informed

Weather Updates: Monitor local news and weather services for the latest information.
Emergency Alerts: Sign up for local emergency alerts and notifications.

How Do I Stay Safe During a Hurricane?

1. Follow Official Instructions

Evacuation Orders: If authorities advise evacuation, do so immediately.
Shelter-in-Place: If instructed to stay indoors, remain in a safe area away from windows and doors.

2. Protect Yourself from Hazards

Floodwaters: Avoid driving or walking through floodwaters, as they can be deeper and more dangerous than they appear.
Downed Power Lines: Stay away from fallen power lines and report them to authorities.
Carbon Monoxide: Never use generators, grills, or camp stoves indoors or in enclosed spaces to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Always use them outdoors and at least 20 feet away from windows and doors. (cdc.gov)

3. Maintain Communication

Stay Updated: Keep a battery-powered radio or your mobile device charged to receive updates.
Limit Phone Use: Use phones only for emergency calls to conserve battery life.

What Should I Do After a Hurricane?

1. Ensure Safety Before Reentry

Structural Integrity: Do not enter damaged buildings until authorities confirm they are safe.
Floodwaters: Avoid walking or driving through floodwaters, as they may contain contaminants. (cdc.gov)

2. Address Health and Safety Concerns

Food and Water Safety: Discard any food or water that may have been contaminated by floodwaters.
Insect Protection: Use insect repellent and wear protective clothing to prevent mosquito bites, as standing water can breed mosquitoes. (cdc.gov)

3. Begin Cleanup Safely

Protective Gear: Wear gloves, masks, and sturdy footwear during cleanup to prevent injury and exposure to contaminants.
Mold Prevention: Dry out your home as quickly as possible to prevent mold growth.

4. Take Care of Your Emotional Well-being

Seek Support: It's normal to feel stressed or overwhelmed after a disaster. Reach out to mental health professionals or support groups for assistance.

How Can Clime Assist in Hurricane Preparedness?

Clime offers a comprehensive suite of tools designed to enhance your hurricane preparedness:

Real-Time Weather Updates: Receive timely and accurate weather forecasts to stay informed about storm developments.
Emergency Alerts: Get instant notifications about severe weather warnings and evacuation orders.
Safety Resources: Access a wealth of information on safety measures, evacuation plans, and recovery steps.

By integrating Clime into your preparedness plan, you can ensure that you have reliable information and resources at your fingertips when you need them most.

FAQs

1. How can I prepare my home for a hurricane?

Secure windows and doors with storm shutters or plywood, clear gutters, and bring in outdoor items that could become projectiles.

2. What should I include in my emergency kit?

Include water, non-perishable food, first aid supplies, flashlights with extra batteries, and important documents.

3. How can I stay informed during a hurricane?

Monitor local news, sign up for emergency alerts, and use reliable weather apps for real-time updates.

4. What should I do if I'm advised to evacuate?

Follow evacuation orders immediately, taking your emergency kit and important documents with you.

5. How can Clime help during a hurricane?

Clime provides real-time weather updates, emergency alerts, and safety resources to assist in your hurricane preparedness and response.

(cdc.gov)