Hurricane Season 2016

Tomorrow marks the first day of the hurricane season and people in the Lowcountry should be especially prepared since hurricanes are most likely to occur near the coast. Hurricanes are powerful storms that have the potential to cause danger from flooding, storm surges, high winds and tornados. 

Preparation is the best protection against the dangers of a hurricane, so the American Red Cross has created a list of tips that will help members of the Lowcountry stay safe in the event of a hurricane.

• Build an emergency kit with a gallon of water per person, per day, non-perishable food, a flashlight, battery-powered radio, first aid kit, medications, supplies for an infant if applicable, a multi-purpose tool, personal hygiene items, copies of important papers, cell phone chargers, extra cash, blankets, maps of the area and emergency contact information. Many of these items are available through the Red Cross Store at redcrossstore.org.
•     Talk with household members and create an evacuation plan. Practicing the plan minimizes confusion and fear during the event.
•    Be informed. Learn about your community’s hurricane response plan and use the South Carolina Hurricane Guide to “Know Your Zone” for evacuations. Plan routes to local shelters, register family members with special medical needs as required and make plans for pets.
•   Know the difference between a hurricane watch and a hurricane warning. A hurricane watch means hurricane conditions are a threat within 48 hours. A hurricane warning is issued when hurricane conditions are expected within 36 hours.
• People can download the free Red Cross Emergency App to select up to 35 different severe weather and emergency alerts on their mobile device. The content includes expert guidance on what to do before, during and after different emergencies or disasters from home fires to hurricanes. All Red Cross apps can be found in smartphone app stores by searching for American Red Cross or by going to redcross.org/apps.