Have disaster supplies on hand Develop    an    emergency communication    plan    in case of separation Ask an out-of-state relative to   serve   as  the   "family contact" Teach    family    members when and how to turn off gas and electricity Trim  back  dead  or  weak branches from trees  Check into flood insurance Teach  children  when  and how to call 1070 / 1077 Make    arrangements    for family pets because some emergency   shelters   may not allow pets | Cyclone Watch (conditions within 24-36 hours): Listen to battery-operated radio for progress         reports;         check emergency supplies  Fuel car Bring in outdoor objects Secure  buildings  by  closing  and boarding up windows Remove outside antennas Turn  refrigerator  and  freezer  to coldest settings Store   drinking   water   in   clean bathtubs, jugs, and bottles Move boat securely or move to a designated   safe   place;   anchor trailer to ground Review evacuation plan Cyclone     Warning     (conditions expected in 24 hours or less):  Listen to radio for instructions Tie   down    mobile   home   and evacuate immediately  Store   valuables   in   waterproof container Avoid elevators. If at home: Stay  inside,  away  from  anything glass Keep  a  supply  of  batteries  and flashlights Avoid open flames as a source of light If  power  is  lost,  turn  off  major appliances    to    reduce    power "surge." If evacuation is necessary: leave ASAP, avoiding flooded roads and washed-out bridges Secure    home    by    unplugging appliances     and     turning     off electricity and the main water valve If time permits, elevate furniture to protect it from flooding Bring pre-assembled emergency supplies and warm clothing Take blankets and sleeping bags to a shelter and leave immediately | Stay    tuned    to    radio    for information,   returning   home only when authorities advise it is safe to do so Help   injured   or   trapped persons  and  give  first  aid where appropriate Avoid   loose   or   dangling power lines and report them to  the  power  company  or fire department Beware of snakes, insects, and animals driven to higher ground by flood water Open windows and doors to ventilate and dry your home Check refrigerated foods for spoilage Take pictures of the damage for insurance claims Drive only if necessary and avoid   flooded   roads   and washed-out bridges Use   telephones   only   for emergency calls. |