Hurricane Preparedness Guide

Protecting Your Home & Family Against Hurricanes

Welcome to our Hurricane Preparedness Page, a crucial resource for all homeowners in the Metro New Orleans area. As part of the Metro New Orleans community, Team Nugent-Freeland understands the critical importance of preparing for hurricane season, which spans from June 1 to November 30. Our unique geographical challenges necessitate vigilance and readiness. This guide aims to equip you with all the necessary information to protect your home and loved ones during the hurricane season.

Understanding Hurricanes

Hurricanes are formidable storms categorized by their wind speeds and potential for damage. Here’s what you need to know:

• Category 1-2: These storms can cause mild to moderate damage. If you live in vulnerable areas, particularly those in trailers or temporary structures, evacuation might be necessary.
• Category 3-5: These hurricanes bring severe damage and will likely prompt city-wide evacuations, especially if Southeast Louisiana is directly threatened.

Before the Storm: Preparation is Key

Ensuring your safety and minimizing damage to your property starts long before any storm warnings are issued. Here’s how you can prepare:

Home Inspection and Repairs:

• Roof and Structure: Check your roof for loose tiles or shingles and ensure it is robust enough to withstand high winds. Secure any loose items around your property that could become projectiles.
• Windows and Doors: Install storm shutters or board up windows with plywood. Check the seals around windows and doors to prevent water from entering.
• Rain Gutters and Downspouts: Clear debris from gutters and downspouts to prevent flooding and water damage.

Emergency Supplies:

• Stock up on non-perishable food, water (at least one gallon per person per day for several days), medications, and pet supplies.
• Prepare a first-aid kit, flashlights, extra batteries, and a portable radio for updates.
• Keep important documents in a waterproof container. Consider making digital copies.

Evacuation Plan:

• Know your area’s evacuation routes and have a plan in place for where you can go if you need to evacuate.
• Discuss the plan with all members of your household and practice it.

What to Bring: Hurricane Evacuation Kit

As hurricane season approaches, it’s essential to prepare your disaster evacuation kit well in advance. This kit should be ready to go at a moment’s notice should you need to evacuate. Below is a comprehensive list of items you should include in your Hurricane Evacuation Kit:

• Prescription Medication and First Aid Kit: Ensure you have enough medication for at least a week and a basic first aid kit for any medical needs.
• Clothing and Bedding: Pack comfortable clothing, along with sleeping bags, blankets, and pillows to ensure you can stay warm and rest wherever you may need to shelter
• Battery-Operated Radio, Flashlight, and Extra Batteries: These items are crucial for staying informed and safe during power outages.
• Non-Perishable Food and Water: Pack at least a three-day supply per person, with at least one gallon of water per person per day.
• Important Documents: Include immigration documents like passports, I-20 or DS-2019, and I-94 cards. Also pack social security cards, proof of residence, birth and marriage certificates, insurance policies, tax records, and any other critical documents in a waterproof container.
• Tech and Communication Supplies: Don't forget your laptop, important books, a cell phone with a charger, and a portable battery charger. These can keep you connected and informed.
• Navigation Tools: Include maps and car keys to aid your travel. Ensure your vehicle’s gas tank is full before the storm hits.
• Safety Instructions: Have written instructions on how to safely turn off electricity, gas, and water if advised by authorities. Remember, these utilities should be turned back on by a professional.

During the Storm: Safety First

When a hurricane is imminent, your priority should be safety.

• Stay Informed: Keep track of the storm’s progress through local news or a NOAA Weather Radio.
• Stay Indoors: Remain inside and away from windows or glass doors. Find a safe room in your home, such as a bathroom or closet on the lowest level.
• Be Prepared for Outages: Power outages are common. Have backup power sources ready if possible, and conserve cellphone battery life.

After the Storm: Caution and Recovery

The danger may not be over once the storm has passed.

• Inspect Your Home: Carefully inspect your property for damage. Document any damage with photos or videos for insurance claims.
• Avoid Flood Waters: Steer clear of flood waters, which may be electrically charged from downed wires or contaminated.
• Check on Neighbors: If safe, check on elderly neighbors or those who may need additional assistance.

Insurance and Financial Preparedness

Insurance Check-up:

• Annual Review: Regularly review your insurance policies to ensure coverage is adequate for hurricanes and floods. Consider flood insurance, as homeowner's policies do not typically cover flood damage.

Financial Planning:

• Emergency Fund: Build an emergency fund that can cover at least three months of living expenses.
• Important Documents: Store insurance policies, identification documents, and financial records in a waterproof, fireproof box.

Rebuilding and Repair

Finding Reliable Contractors:

• Verification: Ensure contractors are licensed and insured. Check references and review history before hiring.
• Scam Awareness: Be wary of contractors soliciting door-to-door and those demanding upfront payment.

Permitting Information:

• Local Building Codes: Obtain all necessary permits for repairs and construction from the New Orleans building department to ensure compliance with local building codes.