There are three aspects to safely negotiating a hurricane – preparedness before a hurricane occurs, actions during a hurricane, dealing with the aftermath of a hurricane.

 In preparing for a hurricane, the first and most sensible thing to do is to secure the house with storm shutters. Be informed on the safe land routes and official hurricane shelters. Stock on dry food, clean water for emergency use, and medicines. Dehydrated food, canned juice, milk powder, food for the elderly and babies should be stocked. Check if the storm water drains around your house are working properly so that water can flow freely. Check for the type of damage that your insurance policy does not cover. If you are a boat owner, see if there is a safer place for it than the marina where it is currently located.

If you own pets then plan in advance for their safety. Public shelters and hotels do not allow pets, so these animals are totally dependent on your foresight. If there are handicapped people in your family, you need to think in advance for them too.

Keep your home stocked with emergency use items such as flashlights and a stock of batteries. Avoid using matches. Keep a portable radio handy and know the frequency at which weather broadcasts are made. Brush up your first-aid skills and keep a well-stocked first-aid kit that contains waterproof bandages, disinfectants, anti-diarrhea tablets, etc. You should have a fire extinguisher in place that can help you douse electrical fires.

Each member of the house should have thick-soled footwear to protect from debris and shards of glass on the ground. Make arrangements for cooking in an open place, store charcoal for grilling and barbecuing. Your toolbox should be within easy reach and you should know the location of the gas and water valves to turn them off if necessary. Arrange for the security of important things such as certificates, medical records, finance records, cash, and jewelry.

Your family response plan should center on staying together and staying safe. Inform a relative staying in a safe zone that he will be the contact person in case of an emergency. All family members should have his phone number. Have an evacuation route planned and make sure all family members are aware of it.

If you get caught outside during a hurricane, take shelter immediately. If you are at home, stay indoors if the house is well-reinforced. This calls for some advance learning about the structural integrity of your residence. Unplug all appliances, minimize electrocution risks, and fire hazards. Stay away from windows during strong winds. If things get really bad then take shelter under a sturdy table or behind a cupboard.

Do nothing contrary to local authority orders, if you are ordered to evacuate, then do so. Do not take short cuts to reaching an evacuation center; follow the designated route to emergency housing and feeding stations. Ensure that your vehicle is carrying sufficient amount of fuel.