SAFETY CORNER
Hurricane Preparedness
T
he 2021 Atlantic hurricane season which begins on June 1st and runs through November 30th, is quickly approaching. Weather experts from AccuWeather predict that the 2021 Atlantic hurricane season will be above normal for tropical activity. This season is expected to deliver 16-20 named storms, seven to ten hurricanes, of which three to five are expected to be major hurricanes, reaching or exceeding speeds of 111+ mph. Since 2010, there have been seven Atlantic hurricane seasons with at least one storm formed before the official start of hurricane season. This highlights the importance of being prepared in advance of any storm, preferably in advance of hurricane season. Before the storm, tune in to local TV stations, radio, or other news sources for information. Have an evacuation plan in place for you and your family and be prepared to follow all local guidelines for evacuations and/or evacuation routes. Be aware that social distancing and other restrictions due to COVID-19 may impact your emergency plans (i.e. shelters). Consider any special needs you or your family have, as well as pre-registration that may be required for shelters and/or pets. Prepare emergency kits ahead of time to avoid the potential
By Weston District Fire Chief Todd Draizin
of limited access to supplies and ensure emergency kits are easily portable should you need to evacuate. Recommended items may include: non-perishable food/ water to last at least three days, first-aid kit, prescription medication, personal hygiene and sanitation items, flashlights and extra batteries, battery operated radio, waterproof container with cash and other important documents, books, and games for recreation, baby supplies, pet supplies, etc. Before a storm approaches, protect your home by covering windows with hurricane shutters or wood if necessary. Ensure trees and shrubs are trimmed and clear away any debris from landscaping, rain gutters, etc. Reinforce garage doors and use sandbags to help protect against flooding, bring in all outdoor furniture, decorations, garbage cans, etc., unplug electrical equipment that is not in use, check generators for maintenance and be sure you have enough fuel, and check home fire extinguishers and first aid supplies. During a storm, always consider the safety of yourself and your family first. Stay away from windows and doors, identify a “safe room” in your home that does not have doors or windows and be sure flashlights are within reach of your safe room. Never venture outside during the storm as flying debris may cause serious injury or death.
Stay away from rising water and downed power lines. Do not call 911 unless it is an emergency and be aware that emergency responders may not be able to respond during the storm. After the storm beware of fallen power lines. If power is out, use flashlights or other battery-powered light sources for illumination to avoid potential risks of fire from any lit flames. Avoid driving if possible, as there may be debris or other hazardous road conditions. If traffic signals are inoperative, treat all intersections as though they are a 4-way stop. Remove any shutters from doors/ windows and make sure not to operate any generators inside the home. While the threat of hurricanes may be stressful to many, storm preparations don’t have to be. Having an emergency plan in place and being stocked with supplies can help make storm preparations less stressful for you and your family. To learn more about how you can be prepared for the upcoming hurricane season, join us for our virtual Hurricane Preparedness presentation on May 13th at 7:00 pm. Registration is available at https:// BSOFireRescuePublicEducation.as.me/ .
⊲ For more information, please contact District Chief Todd Draizin at Weston Fire Station #81 at 954-389-2015 or by email at Todd_Draizin@Sheriff.org.
