During the Storm (And Reassuring Children)

The greatest threat to personal safety exists during a storm and in the immediate aftermath when high winds can topple trees and produce deadly flying debris.  Pembroke Pines Prepared

Follow these emergency tips during a hurricane:

• Monitor local media for emergency instructions - transistor radios are a great supply kit addition Broward County's Official Emergency Radio Station WIOD 610 AM;  List of TV-Radio Station Simulcasts
  
• Stay indoors and away from windows, skylights and glass doors.
  
  • Locate a safe room or area in your house (an interior rooms, a closet or bathroom on the lower level)
  • Do not take a bath/shower during the storm.
• Do not go outside in the "eye" of the storm (the calm of the hurricane):
  • In the eye of the storm, winds and rain may stop for a few minutes or more than an hour
  • Be careful - winds will return with greater intensity from the opposite direction - do not go outside to see "what the wind feels like."  It's too easy to be hit by flying debris.
• Call 911 only for emergencies - Avoid using the telephone unless necessary
• Do not use gas and electrical appliances, including your computer
  
  • Use flashlights and battery powered lanterns; Do not use candles
  • Open your refrigerator and freezer doors as little as possible
  • If a home loses power, turn off major appliances such as the air conditioner and water heater to reduce damage.

• Place towels along window sills and the bottom of doors leading outside to keep water from coming in. Have buckets, mops and sponges handy in the event of flooding.

• Be aware that tornadoes can appear anytime during a hurricane. Monitor your local station and if a tornado warning is issued, take cover in an interior hallway or on the lower level if in a tall building. Stay away from glass doors and windows. You can also take cover under heavy furniture in the center of a house.
• If Power Goes Out

For Kids …

 
Children who live in the track of hurricanes feel firsthand the threat of danger to themselves and those they care about. To comfort and reassure them, try these suggestions from the National Mental Health Association:

• Reassure them that they’re safe  
  
• Be honest and open about the disaster, but keep information “age-appropriate” Weather Wiz Kids, Owlie Skywarn's Weather Book
  
• Encourage them to express their feelings through talking, drawing or playing
• Try to maintain your daily routines as much as possible