If you live in a sound structure outside the evacuation area and do not live in a mobile home, stay home and take these precautions:
Make sure your windows are protected and home is secured.
Clean containers for drinking water and your bathtub for storing cleaning water. Line the tub with plastic sheeting or a clean shower curtain, or caulk the drain with silicone caulking - it holds water for weeks and cleans up easily when dry. Plan on 3 gallons per person, per day for all uses.
Offer your home as shelter to friends or relatives who live in vulnerable areas or mobile homes.
Check your disaster supplies kit. Make sure you have at least a two-week supply of nonperishable foods. Don't forget a nonelectric can opener.
During the storm
Wait for official word that the danger is over. Don't be fooled by the storm's calm eye
If flooding threatens your home, turn off electricity at the main breaker.
If you lose power, turn off major appliances such as the air conditioner and water heater to reduce damage.
Monitor your battery-operated radio, NOAA weather radio or TV for the latest advisories and other emergency information.
Do not use electrical appliances, including your computer.
If the storm center passes over your area, there will be a short period of calm. Do not go outside. At the other side of the eye, the wind speed rapidly increases to hurricane force and will come from the opposite direction.
