Title:Preparing to Evacuate:  What to Do In Your Home
Author:Nayda I. Torres
Date: 1992

Preparing to Evacuate:  What to Do In Your Home
Nayda I. Torres

     If flood waters or a hurricane threaten, but you haven't yet
been advised to evacuate, use any remaining time to protect your
home and belongings from damage.

 1.  Fill available containers, including bathtubs with water.
     If water systems become contaminated by flood water, your
     only safe water will be what you have on hand.  It is
     recommended that you save enough water for the needs of your
     family and pets for three days.

 2.  Move important items such as food, furniture, rugs, books,
     clothing, electric motors and controls to upper floors.  If
     the house is only one level, place important items above
     flood level.  Remove dust ruffles and bedspreads from the
     beds since they will absorb water if flooding occurs.

 3.  Collect valuable and small appliances (such as toasters) and
     secure them in plastic bags.  Place them on the counter
     tops.  If you have to evacuate take your important legal
     papers, medications and valuables with you.

 4.  Anchor outside belongings or move them inside.  Trash cans,
     toys, lawnmowers, furniture, tools and buckets could wash
     away, becoming hazards downstream or the wind of the
     hurricane will cause them to become flying projectiles that
     cause damage as they blow away.

 5.  Fill all portions of domestic water systems with clean water
     and cap openings.  Seal wells to keep out silt and debris.

 6.  If flooding occurs, shut off utilities (electricity, water,
     gas) at main switches.  DO NOT TOUCH ELECTRICAL SWITCHES
     WHILE WET OR STANDING IN WATER.

 7.  If possible, move frozen food to a locker plant.

 8.  If you need to evacuate to a shelter because of a hurricane,
     and you have pets -- secure them in the house leaving enough
     food and water, or take them to a kennel.  Pets are not
     allowed in shelters.