Natural Disaster Preparedness Top 10 Hurricane Season Safety Tips for Homeowners and Families

Hurricane considerations

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Hurricane Considerations for Hawaii Homeowners

Quick Facts

• Hurricanes are low-pressure systems that form over warm ocean waters (at least 26.5°C or 80°F).
• Hurricanes are fueled by evaporation from the surface of the ocean and can sustain themselves for tens of thousands of miles.
• Hurricanes rotate counterclockwise in the Northern Hemisphere and clockwise in the Southern Hemisphere.
• The strongest winds in a hurricane are typically found in the eyewall, a ring of thunderstorms surrounding the calm center.
• A Category 1 hurricane has sustained winds of 119-153 km/h (74-95 mph), while a Category 5 hurricane has winds of 251-318 km/h (156-200 mph).
• The slowest-moving hurricanes can stall over a region, causing prolonged heavy rainfall and flooding.
• A hurricane’s storm surge (the rise in sea level) is caused by the wind pushing water against the coast.
• A hurricane’s eye is the calm center of the storm, where the winds are typically light and the skies are clear.
• During a hurricane, winds can cause power outages, flooding, and structural damage.
• After a hurricane, residents should exercise caution when entering floodwaters and power lines and be aware of gas leaks and asbestos contamination.

Understanding Hurricane Categories

Preparing Your Home for a Hurricane

• Trim trees and shrubs: Trees and shrubs with loose branches can easily become projectiles in strong winds, causing damage to your home and power lines.
• Secure outdoor furniture and decorations: Bring in patio furniture, trash cans, and other outdoor items that can become projectiles or obstruct evacuation routes.
• Install storm shutters: Reinforce windows and doors with storm shutters or boards to prevent damage from wind-borne debris.
• Seal all openings: Caulk or board up openings around windows, doors, and roof openings to prevent water and wind from entering your home.
• Stock an emergency kit: Assemble a kit with essential supplies, such as non-perishable food, water, first aid supplies, and a battery-powered radio.

Emergency Planning and Insurance

• Evacuate early: If ordered by authorities, evacuate your home and follow evacuation routes to a designated shelter.
• Stay informed: Monitor weather forecasts and updates from the National Weather Service (NWS) and local authorities.
• Be prepared to move: Keep important documents, medications, and a change of clothes in an easily accessible location.

Post-Storm Recovery

• Wait for permission to return: Only return home when authorities give the all-clear.
• Assess damage: Inspect your property for damage, taking note of hazards like fallen power lines, loose rocks, and debris.
• Document damage: Take photos and videos of damage to support insurance claims and provide evidence of damage for authorities.
• Seek professional help: Hire a licensed contractor or engineer to assess structural damage and provide a mitigation plan.

Hurricane Preparation: A Hawaii-Specific Guide

• Invest in wind-resistant roofing: Choose wind-resistant roofing material to minimize damage.
• Consider impact-resistant windows: Install impact-resistant windows to prevent damage from wind-borne debris.
• Stay informed: Register for emergency alerts from local authorities and follow weather updates from the National Weather Service.

Resources & Links

• FEMA – Hurricane Information
• National Hurricane Center
• Ready.gov – Hurricane Preparation
• American Red Cross – Hurricane Information
• National Weather Service – Hurricane and Water Level Information

For Buyers & Sellers

Personal Summary: Hurricane Considerations for Home Buyers and Sellers

• Impact on Home Buyers: When purchasing a home in a hurricane-prone area, it’s crucial to consider the potential risks and costs associated with severe weather events.
• Impact on Home Sellers: As a home seller, it’s crucial to disclose any known hurricane-related issues or risks associated with the property.

Mitigating Risks

• Flood insurance: Purchase flood insurance, even if the property is not in a designated flood zone.
• Storm preparedness: Take steps to storm-proof your home, such as installing storm shutters, securing outdoor objects, and maintaining gutters.
• Upgrades and repairs: Regularly inspect and maintain your property to prevent damage from wind, water, and debris.
• Stay informed: Stay up-to-date with local weather forecasts, evacuation orders, and emergency instructions.

Frequently Asked Questions:

• Before a Hurricane
  • What should I do to prepare for a hurricane?
    • Stock up on non-perishable food and water, board up windows, trim trees and shrubs, and have a first aid kit and batteries on hand.
  • How do I know if I’m in a hurricane evacuation zone?
    • Check with your local government or emergency management office to find out if you’re in a evacuation zone.
  • Can I stay in my mobile home during a hurricane?
    • No, mobile homes are not safe during a hurricane. Leave immediately and go to a sturdy building or shelter.
• During a Hurricane
  • What should I do if I lose power?
    • Use flashlights instead of candles to avoid fire hazards, and keep a battery-powered radio to stay informed.
  • Can I use my generator during a hurricane?
    • Only use a generator outdoors and away from doors and windows to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.
  • How do I stay safe during hurricane flooding?
    • Avoid walking or swimming in floodwaters, as they may be electrically charged or contaminated with sewage and chemicals.
• After a Hurricane
  • Is it safe to go outside after a hurricane?
    • Wait until authorities say it’s safe to go outside. Be aware of fallen power lines, sharp debris, and flooded areas.
  • How do I deal with mold and mildew after a hurricane?
    • Wear gloves, masks, and protective eyewear to clean up mold and mildew. Dispose of items that can’t be dried and cleaned.
  • Can I use my tap water after a hurricane?
    • Check with your local authorities to see if your tap water is safe to drink. Otherwise, use bottled water.