Safety Tips

Hurricane Preparedness

Are you ready for a storm? June 1st kicks off hurricane season so be prepared!

Preparedness

Gather and store valuable documents such as mortgage notes, deeds, licenses, house plans, property tax receipts, etc.
Take photos or a video of your home, boat, automobiles and belongings (this is very important for insurance reasons).
Bring in all outdoor furniture, decorations, garbage cans or anything else that is not tied down.
Turn off utilities and propane tank.
Gather nonperishable food items, drinking water (one gallon per day per person), flashlights, first aid kits, battery powered radio, toilet paper, camera and film, disposable wash cloths, and cash.
Pack items to keep the children entertained.
Plan where you will go in case of evacuation. Know your route and have an alternate plan.
Make a list of important telephone numbers to take with you.
Pack pet supplies and medications.
Two weeks worth of prescription medicine.

Watches and Warnings

A hurricane watch means hurricane conditions pose a possible threat to the area (generally 36 hours out)

Make sure your car has a full tank of fuel.
Review evacuation routes and your family plan.
Listen for weather updates.
Check survival supplies and gather important documents.
Make sure prescriptions are filled.

A hurricane warning means hurricane conditions are expected in the area within 24 hours.

Move all loose outdoor objects inside.
Place protective covering over windows and doors.
Moor boats securely or move inside.
Lock doors and windows before departing.
Take survival supplies with you.
Notify all necessary parties of your departure and final destination.
Turn off gas at any outdoor propane tanks.
Consider moving valuable items to a higher elevation inside your home.

After the storm

If you have evacuated out-of-town, you can obtain updated information regarding Hilton Head Island and Bluffton by calling this toll free number: 1-800-963-5023 then listen to the prompts for your area.

For additional tips please contact Cinda Seamon, Public Education Officer , Town of Hilton Head Island Fire & Rescue ~ (843)682-5141.

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