During

1. Listen to the radio or TV for information.
    

2. Make sure your home or building is secured if you have already. For your home, close storm shutters, then secure outdoor furniture and other objects or bring these objects inside.
    

3. Turn off utilities if instructed to do so.  Otherwise, turn the refrigerator thermostat to its coldest setting and keep its doors closed.  Turn off propane tanks as well.
    

4. Avoid using the land line phone, except for serious emergencies.  Cell phones can be used but may not be operable due to weather conditions.
    

5. There is the distinct possibility that your plumbing may be inoperable or the water could be unavailable. For this reason, make sure that you have water on hand to do the following: (1) cleaning and flushing toilets and (2) filling the bathtub and other large containers, and (3) cooking if  possible.
    

6. If you have not left the area, be sure to get out. You should definitely leave if recommended by first responders and emergency personnel. Staying and waiting out a Category Three or higher hurricane is not only dangerous but foolish.

 After

1. You may return to an area that looks like a war zone.  Be prepared to accept that fact although it will be unpleasant.
    

2. Stay out of disaster areas that could be dangerous.  Houses and trees may be ready to collapse.
    

3. Do not bother emergency preparedness personnel unless they invite you to do so.
    

4. Due to the aftermath, do not drive unless absolutely necessary.
    

5. Do not use the telephone unless absolutely necessary.  Remember that if you use a cell phone the radio towers may be down or the channels may be full.  Using a cell phone may prevent emergency personnel from communicating with each other as well because of the clogged channels.
    

6. Look out for loose or dangling power lines.  You can be electrocuted and this can be fatal.
    

7. Do not use or drink water unless told by emergency preparedness personnel or health officials that it is safe.
    

8. Do not turn on utilities unless it is safe. You can get this information buy listening to the radio or watching TV or better yet finding out from emergency personnel in the field.

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