Hurricane Season Checklist: 5 Steps to Prepare Your Family and Home

Hurricane Season Preparedness: A Five-Point Checklist With hurricane season fast approaching, the National Weather Service anticipates that approximately half of all hurricanes will reach major status (Category 3 or above). This underscores the critical need for preparedness, as emphasized in a recent video by CBS News. The video highlights five key steps for individuals and families to take before, during, and after a hurricane. First, knowing your evacuation zone is crucial. The video provides links to websites where residents of Florida and Texas can find their designated zones. Other states can access similar information through their government emergency management websites. "It is absolutely critical to know your hurricane evacuation zone," the video's presenter states, emphasizing the importance of this first step. Second, assembling a basic emergency kit is essential. The video lists recommended items, including water, food, a NOAA weather radio, flashlight, first aid kit, and extra batteries. A more comprehensive list is available on ready.gov/kit. Third, creating a family emergency plan is vital. The video stresses the importance of knowing how to stay in contact, where to go, and what to do in case of an emergency. The presenter encourages keeping a copy of this plan in the emergency kit for easy access. Fourth, reviewing insurance policies is crucial. The video warns of changes in flood insurance policies in recent years, particularly in flood-prone areas. "The last thing you're going to want to deal with in the aftermath of a natural disaster is problems with your insurance," the presenter notes. Finally, preparing your home is essential. This includes trimming trees, boarding up windows, securing doors, and bringing in patio furniture. The video concludes by stressing that the best time to prepare is now, given the increasing frequency and intensity of hurricanes. By following this five-point checklist, individuals and families can significantly increase their preparedness and safety during hurricane season.