Stay Ready: Essential Tips for Hurricane Preparedness
As Louisiana navigates through the mid-hurricane season, it's crucial for families to be equipped to face potential emergencies. The East Baton Rouge Parish Housing Authority brings you vital advice to ensure your readiness. From communication strategies to safeguarding your home and creating a comprehensive family emergency plan, these essential tips will empower you to stay informed, connected, and safe in the face of adversity.
1. Stay Connected
· Maintain a list of emergency contacts.
· Ensure all electronic devices are charged and have backup power sources available.
· Utilize social media to stay informed and update others about your situation.
2. Create an Emergency Kit
· Prepare a kit with non-perishable food and water for a minimum of 3 days.
· Stock up on first aid supplies and medications.
· Pack flashlights, batteries, and a battery-powered radio.
3. Develop a Family Emergency Plan
· Locate a safe room or the most secure areas within your home.
· Develop evacuation routes and designate meeting points.
· Ensure all family members are familiar with the plan and practice it frequently.
4. Stay Informed
· Monitor weather forecasts and updates from trusted sources.
· Sign up for local emergency alerts.
· Have a NOAA Weather Radio for real-time updates.
5. Protect Your Home
· Secure windows and doors with storm shutters or plywood.
· Bring in outdoor furniture and secure loose items.
· Cut trees and shrubs to reduce potential damage.
6. Know Your Evacuation Zone
· Learn the hurricane evacuation routes in your community.
· Listen to the guidance provided by local authorities when evacuation orders are issued.
· Prepare a plan for your pets.
Important Contact Information
For emergencies, call 911.
For non-emergency information and services, call 211 or visit www.louisiana211.org.
For travel-related information or road closures, call 511 or 1-888-Road-511 (1-888-762-3511) or visit 511la.org.
For disaster assistance, reach out to the following organizations:
Capital Area United Way: (225) 923-2114 or toll-free (877) 923-2114
American Red Cross: (800) 733-2767; Baton Rouge Chapter (225) 291-4533
Federal Emergency Management Agency: (800) 621-3362
Baton Rouge Food Bank: (225) 359-9940
National Hurricane Center: (504) 522-7330
National Weather Service: (504) 522-7330
Ensuring these measures are in place can make a meaningful difference in preparing for potential hurricanes and safeguarding the well-being of our community.
Other Helpful Links
Get a Game Plan https://www.getagameplan.org/
Mayor's Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness https://city.brla.gov/dept/oep/
Redstick Ready https://www.brla.gov/2180/Hurricane-Preparedness
National Weather Service https://www.weather.gov/lix/htikmlwind