Jan 1, 2008 12:04 pm US/Eastern
Hurricane Preparedness - Stay Or Go?
(CBS)
Once a hurricane alert has been issued, you'll need to decide whether to stay at home or leave the area and act quickly.
Tune into
emergency weather radio to keep up with the latest storm information. If authorities tell you to evacuate, do so early, and bring your emergency supply kit with you.
If no evacuation has been called, put your own plan into action and call your designated out-of-state contact to let them know where you are.
When a hurricane watch is issued and you choose to stay, get ready to lock hurricane shutters, bring in any lawn furniture, garbage cans or other loose items that could be tossed by the wind, fill the gas tank in your car, and have your emergency supply kit ready.
When a hurricane warning is issued, leave for a shelter if authorities order it, otherwise, lock the shutters, stay inside and away from windows, and do not go outside until authorities announce an all-clear. Even if it seems the storm has passed, it's possible that the hurricane's calm "eye" is hovering over your area and the second part of the storm has yet to pass.
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