Michael Petruccelli asks: What should you do - Once You Decide to Evacuate(2)

Michael Petruccelli says: Consult a map in accordance to the advice given on the news. For example, if you live in Florida or Louisiana and the hurricane is said to be heading northwest, you'll want to have a route that heads northeast or north, whichever one is safer and shorter. Contact any friends or family that you may need to stay with during this time. Let them know that you are coming.

Michael Petruccelli asks: What should you do - Once You Decide to Evacuate(1)

Michael Petruccelli says:  Determine when and how you will evacuate. If you don't have a car, don't be too proud to ask others for help. If you do, leaving at an off-hour such as 2am is the best way to assure minimal traffic.

Michael Petruccelli asks: What should you do - Once You Hear A Hurricane May Be Coming Your Way? (12)

Michael Petruccelli says: Decide whether or not you will evacuate. It's best to get out of town before it becomes mandatory, or even recommended. If you wait until the last minute, an hour will have passed before you get out of your driveway. You can look up your flood zone and evacuation route if you live in Pinellas County by going to - know your zone. 


http://egis.pinellascounty.org/apps/knowyourzone/

Inform your family and friends about your decision. They will rest easier if they know what you plan to do and why.
 

Michael Petruccelli asks: What should you do - Once You Hear A Hurricane May Be Coming Your Way? (11)

Michael Petruccelli says: Stay on top of the news. How often you watch the Weather Channel is up to you, but if you start to feel overwhelmed or panicky, turn it off. You can always turn the news back on when you feel better.

Ask a trusted neighbor to let you know when a hurricane will likely head your way so you can be informed when news watching is absolutely vital. It may be a good idea to evacuate your area beforehand, since traffic will be a problem during a mandatory evacuation order.

Michael Petruccelli asks: What should you do - Once You Hear A Hurricane May Be Coming Your Way? (10)

Michael Petruccelli says: Put all of your valuables into clear plastic bags or high off the floor. This should further insure that they stay dry in case of flooding. Place your essential documents and emergency money in plastic bag and put in your emergency kit.

Michael Petruccelli asks: What should you do - Once You Hear A Hurricane May Be Coming Your Way? (9)

Michael Petruccelli says:  Be sure you are well supplied with any prescription drugs that you or your family  take on a regular basis. This can be a daunting task as some insurers will not honor refills until the last refill is nearly used up or has run out. If necessary, drugs must be purchased without insurance; weeks may go by without the ability to get refills, putting your health (or even your life) at risk.