Preparing for Hurricane Season & COVID-19: A Extensive Guide to Staying Safe
Every year, national Preparedness Month culminates in Get Ready Day – a crucial reminder to safeguard your family and community.This year, on September 21st, Get Ready day takes on added significance as we navigate both an active hurricane season and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. It’s time to proactively equip yourself with the knowledge and resources needed to weather any storm.
The Heightened Threat of 2021
The national Oceanic and Atmospheric Governance (NOAA) predicts another above-average Atlantic hurricane season, extending through November 30th. Consequently, preparedness isn’t just an excellent idea – it’s essential. Fortunately, resources like those available at GetReadyForFlu.org offer valuable guidance in both English and Spanish. You can also track potential risks in your area using the National Hurricane Center’s interactive map: adapting Your Plan for a Pandemic
This year,your hurricane preparedness needs a COVID-19 conscious approach. Get ready has developed a helpful infographic outlining how to protect yourself and your loved ones during hurricane season.Let’s break down the core principles - the “3 P’s” – to ensure you’re fully prepared.1. Plan: First, determine the safest evacuation route for your family now. 2. Protect: Getting vaccinated against COVID-19 is a critical step in protecting yourself and your community. 3. Pack: your “go-bag” requires some additions this year to account for the pandemic. Preparation extends beyond these three key areas. Consider these additional steps: Secure Your Home: Trim trees, clear gutters, and secure loose outdoor objects.
If a shelter is necessary,prioritize facilities that are less crowded to minimize COVID-19 exposure.
follow the centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) guidelines for staying safe in public disaster shelters: https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/hurricanes/covid-19/public-disaster-shelter-during-covid.html.
Consider a “family pod” plan – designating a safe location with trusted family or friends where you can shelter together, reducing exposure to others.
Vaccines are safe, effective, and significantly reduce your risk of severe illness.
Should you contract the virus, vaccination lessens the likelihood of hospitalization, which is especially important during a disaster when healthcare resources are strained.
remember, being sick during a hurricane is particularly dangerous due to limited access to medical care.
Ensure you have an ample supply of:
Face masks
Hand sanitizer
Bottled water
Essential medications
Disinfectant wipes
don’t forget a first-aid kit and any specific medical supplies your family needs.
You can find a helpful go-bag checklist at GetReadyForFlu.org.Beyond the 3 P’s: Additional Considerations
Review Insurance: Ensure your homeowner’s or renter’s insurance is up-to-date and covers hurricane damage.
Stay Informed: Monitor weather reports from reliable sources like the National hurricane Center and your local news.
Communicate: establish a communication plan with family members, including an out-of-state contact person.
Financial Preparedness: Have cash on hand,as ATMs and credit card systems may be unavailable during a power outage
