Planning and preparation is imperative preceding Hurricane Season
Published 11:20 am Thursday, May 13, 2021
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As part of National Hurricane Preparedness week, May 9 through May 15 and with the beginning of the 2021 hurricane season approaching, Troopers urge everyone to be prepared, plan ahead, and have a game plan in place before the arrival of a potentially dangerous storm.
The Atlantic hurricane season spans from June 1 through November 30. Although the potential for storm surge and tidal flooding is primarily a concern for South Louisiana residents, other hurricane effects such as high winds, tornados, and heavy rainfall with flooding may affect residents throughout our state.
History teaches that a lack of hurricane awareness and preparation are common threads among all major hurricane disasters. By knowing your vulnerability and what actions you should take, you can reduce the effects of a hurricane disaster.
Know the meaning and the difference between a hurricane watch and a hurricane warning:
• Hurricane Watch: conditions are possible in the specified area of the watch, usually within 36 hours.
• Hurricane Warning: conditions are expected in the specified area of the warning, usually within 24 hours.
Before the storm, make preparations:
• Assemble an emergency kit including flashlights, batteries, battery powered radio, first aid kit, evacuation maps, canned food and a non-electric can opener, important papers, and pertinent medical information including prescriptions.
• Prepare a personal evacuation plan selecting several locations suitable for your family especially in the case of individuals with special needs or with pets.
• Protect your home and valuables in advance from the possibility of strong winds and hurricane conditions in your area.
During a hurricane or tropical storm watch or warning:
• Listen to radio/television for storm progress reports
• Check emergency supplies
• Fuel your car
• Board up windows and secure outdoor furniture
• Turn refrigerator and freezer to coldest settings
• Store drinking water
• Review your evacuation plan
After the storm:
• Tune to local radio or television for information from local and/or state officials.
• Return home only after authorities advise that it is safe to do so.
For a complete list of storm preparation guidelines, visit the LA Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness “Get a Game Plan” website at https://getagameplan.org/ and download the FEMA smartphone application to access important safety tips on what to do before, during, and after a hurricane.
Additional sources of information can be found at the below websites.
