Summer is the season of severe thunderstorms and hurricanes, and while these large storms can be
frightening and destructive, there are steps you can take to keep your family and property safe.
Preparation is key to safety. Staying tuned in to the local weather is always a good idea, but don’t wait
for a storm to be headed your way to begin getting ready. Instead, start now!
Have a planned evacuation route if you live in an area prone to flooding or where hurricanes might
make landfall. (Escape plans are also crucial for house fires, so consolidate your emergency planning and
consider that as well while you’re making severe weather plans.)
Here are a few tips to help you put a home evacuation plan in place.
- Assign responsibilities for each member of your household.
- Plan and discuss all possible escape routes.
- Establish a familiar outside meeting area.
- In the case of a hurricane or other natural disaster, listen to local authorities and evacuate when
and where they say to do so. If told not to evacuate during a hurricane, stay indoors and away
from windows. - Make sure smoke alarms are installed on every level of your home; test them often and change
their batteries twice a year often to make sure they are operating properly. - In the event of a fire, check doors for heat and smoke before exiting and stay low to the floor
when evacuating your home.
Different types of weather can cause significant unknowns, but it’s common for all types of storms to
cause power outages. Below are ways to be prepared for an extended loss of power.
- Stock up on emergency essentials in a disaster safety kit. Include:
o First aid kit
o Non-perishable food and bottled water
o Flashlights, batteries, and maps
o A basic tool kit including a knife and can opener
o Rain gear, sleeping bags, and other weather-related necessities - Consider having a generator professionally installed.
- If you plan to use a portable generator, read all instructions and safety tips prior to needing the
device. - Completely charge cell phones prior to any large storm’s arrival.
Go to MMG’s Video Library to learn more about Fire Evacuation Planning and Generator Safety.