HURRICANE WATCH”

• A Hurricane Watch means that hurricane conditions MAY threaten an area within 24-36 hours. When a Hurricane Watch is issued, everyone in that area should listen for further advisories and be prepared to act promptly:
• Frequently listen to your radio, television or NOAA Weather Radio for official bulletins on the progress of the storm.
• Fuel and service family vehicles. Service stations may be unable to pump fuel because of flooding or loss of electrical service.
• Moor small craft or move to safe shelter.
• Inspect and secure mobile home tie downs.
• Tape, board or shutter all window and door openings. Wedge sliding glass doors to prevent lifting from their tracks.
• Check for batteries, flashlights and battery-operated radios.
• Check on your supply of canned food, first aid supplies, drinking water and medications.
• Secure or bring inside lawn furniture and other loose, lightweight objects, such as garbage cans and garden tools that could become a projectile in high winds.
• Have on hand an extra supply of cash.

“HURRICANE WARNING”

• A hurricane WARNING is issued when hurricane conditions are expected in a specified coastal area in 24 hours or less. Hurricane conditions include winds of 74 miles an hour (64 knots) and/or dangerously high tides and waves. Actions for protection of life and property should begin immediately when the warning is issued, including:
• Frequently listen to your radio, television or NOAA Weather Radio for official bulletins on the progress of the storm.
• Complete preparation activities such as putting up storm shutters, storing loose objects, etc. Move valuables to upper floors.
• Store drinking water in clean jugs, bottles and cooking utensils. The water system in your town could become contaminated or damaged by the storm.
• Check your battery-powered equipment. Your radio may be your only link with the outside world. Emergency cooking facilities and flashlights will be essential if utility services are interrupted.
• Follow instructions issued by local authorities. Leave IMMEDIATELY if told to do so.
• Leave low-lying areas that may be swept by high tides or storm waves.
• If you plan to leave your home, leave early (if possible, in daylight) to avoid the last-minute rush that could leave you stranded. Stay with friends or relatives, at a low-rise inland hotel/motel, or go to a pre-designated public shelter outside a flood zone.
• In any case, leave mobile homes for more substantial shelter.
• Notify neighbors and a family member outside of the warned area of your evacuation plans.
• Put food and water out for a pet if you cannot take it with you. Public health regulations do not allow pets in public shelters, nor do most hotels/motels allow them.