PREPARATION

"PREPARATION THROUGH EDUCATION IS LESS COSTLY THAN LEARNING THROUGH TRAGEDY."

—Bill Proenza, National Hurricane Center Director

The effectiveness of any preparations you make for a potential hurricane hazard depends upon how well you are informed. Information on this page includes links to national and local government websites that provide you with what you need to get a disaster kit, make a plan, and otherwise be prepared for hurricane season.

Hurricane Readiness & Response

According to the National Hurricane Center, disaster prevention should include:

• Developing a family plan (and if you have kids, involving them too)

• Creating a disaster supply kit
• Having a place to go in the event of a mandatory evacuation
• Securing your home
• Having a pet plan for your pets

Additional information on emergency plans and supply kits is also available at http://www.ready.gov.

Flooding

Everyone is at risk. Know yours.

• Know your flood zone! Visit your nearest Library branch to look at local parish flood maps. To make use of the maps, have your lot number handy; determine your lot number at the City-Parish GIS Property Finder website.
• The National Flood Insurance Program website allows you to brush up on the basics, assess your flood risk, estimate your premium and find an insurance agent.
• A great source for key facts about flood readiness, especially flood recovery, is the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website

Hurricane Watch or Warning

Know the Difference

• A hurricane watch indicates possible hurricane conditions within 36 hours. This watch should trigger your family's disaster plan and protective measures should be initiated, especially actions that require extra time such as securing a boat, leaving a barrier island, etc.

• A hurricane warning indicates that sustained winds of at least 74 mph are expected within 24 hours or less. Once this warning has been issued, your family should be in the process of completing preparations and deciding the safest location to be during the storm.

• Now that you are hurricane aware, taking action is simple as 1 - 2 - 3!

Print Resource Favorites

On Risk and Disaster: Lessons from Hurricane Katrina, (2006)

Pet Lover's Guide To First Aid & Emergencies, (2006)

Storm Gourmet: A Guide To Creating Extraordinary Meals Without Electricity, (2005)

Have additional questions regarding hurricane preparation?

Just ask a librarian!