Hurricane Survival Inside: How Long Can You Stay Safely at Home?
When a hurricane stirs on the horizon, some loyal homeowners choose to stay put, believing they can weather the storm from the safety of their homes. However, once the winds pick up and the danger escalates, facing an uphill battle against nature's wrath, authorities will not send first responders to aid anyone who has chosen to stay. Staying in your house during a hurricane, in severe conditions, can be perilous, and the duration one can remain safely inside before facing dire consequences varies significantly.
As someone who has experienced hurricanes firsthand in Florida, I know the importance of hurricane safety measures. During the storm, if you decide to stay, you and your family will be operating under your own volition and risk. The authorities will already be stretched to the limit with emergency response, making it nearly impossible for them to send out help to those who chose to stay. In such instances, it is a race against time, and you might be the only one who can decide when to leave.
Ensuring your safety and the safety of your loved ones is crucial. Once a hurricane is moving towards your area, the authorities will announce a mandatory evacuation. This is not a request, but a directive from the state and local government. However, some residents, despite the warnings, opt to stay put. In these cases, the authorities might ask you to write your name in magic marker on your arm. This could be used to identify you if your home is damaged and you are found injured or deceased during or after the storm.
The Risks of Staying Inside
Living in an area prone to hurricane flooding or a structure with unprotected windows can be particularly perilous. The risk of injury or death from falling debris, flooding, or wandering livestock is high. Therefore, following the mandatory evacuation orders can be a matter of life and death. For example, during my first hurricane in the 1970s, I had to flee, hence the importance of the experience instilled in me.
The best strategy is to prepare in advance. Here are some tips to ensure your safety during a hurricane:
1. Boarding Up Windows
Before the storm hits, board up your windows to prevent them from breaking. This simple step can save your home from severe damage.
2. Designating a Safe Area
Choose a central room without windows to serve as your refuge during the storm. This area should be strong enough to withstand any potential damage from winds or debris. A master bedroom or closet can be used for this purpose.
3. Keeping a Battery Radio Handy
To stay updated on storm developments, keep a reliable battery-operated radio. Trying to use your smartphone during power outages can be risky and ineffective.
4. Charging Your Phone
Ensure your mobile phone is fully charged for communication purposes and emergency contact. Carrying a portable charger can also be helpful.
5. Storing Non-Perishable Food and Drinking Water
Stock up on non-perishable food and bottled water to last for several days. The storm may cause power outages and disruption to water supplies, so it's essential to have enough provisions.
6. Filling Your Bathtub
Fill your bathtub with water for cleaning, hygiene, and possible drinking if other sources fail. Water can be used for various purposes during the crisis.
7. Gas Up Your Cars
Tank up your car early to ensure you have transportation if you need to evacuate quickly. Gas stations may shut down during a storm, and roads can be dangerous or closed.
8. Securing Outdoor Items
Keep items that could blow away, such as lawn furniture, umbrellas, or other outdoor decorations, inside. These items can be projectiles during high winds, causing damage to your home or injuring people.
9. Portable Grill with Gas Tank
A portable grill with a gas tank can provide you with a source of heat and cooking, especially if you have propane or butane available. This can make a significant difference in maintaining your comfort and staying warm during the storm.
Ultimately, the decision to stay or evacuate during a hurricane is a personal one, but it's essential to understand the risks and take necessary precautions. If it becomes too dangerous for you to stay inside, leave early to avoid any potential hazards. Preparation and awareness can make a significant difference in surviving the storm safely.