East Shore District Health Department

East Shore District Health Department

Serving Branford, East Haven, and North Branford

Hurricanes are dangerous and can cause major damage from storm surge, wind damage, rip currents and flooding. The heavy winds of hurricanes can cause damage or destroy homes, buildings, and roads, as well as cause power, water, and gas outages. These effects can injure or kill people, disrupt transportation, and pollute drinking water. Hurricanes cause deaths and injuries primarily from drowning, wind, and wind-borne debris. The Atlantic Hurricane Season runs from June 1st to November 30th.

Prepare for a hurricane by following these steps:

  • Sign up for local alerts and warnings. Monitor local news and weather reports.
  • Prepare to evacuate by testing your emergency communication plan(s), learning evacuation routes, having a place to stay, and packing a “go bag.”
  • Stock emergency supplies. Make sure you have at least a 3-day supply of essential items that meet your basic needs if you need to evacuate, and a 14-day supply for sheltering at home.
  • Protect your property by installing sewer back flow valves, anchoring fuel tanks, reviewing insurance policies, and cataloging belongings.
  • Collect and safeguard critical financial, medical, educational, and legal documents and records.

Check out the links below to learn more ways to prepare for a hurricane:

https://www.ready.gov/hurricanes

https://www.weather.gov/safety/hurricane-plan