Most prevention checklists agree that you should assess the typical weather conditions of your local area immediately. If your city is prone to tornadoes or hurricanes, you need to know how to respond when those storms strike. One of the best ways to get ready for extreme weather is to start an emergency supply pantry. Stock it with canned foods, flashlights, emergency medical supplies and a battery-operated weather radio. These are all excellent items that no one should ever find themselves without during a dangerous storm. It is also a wonderful idea to find out where emergency shelters are located. These are typically public places like schools and hospitals.

The first thing you are going to want to do is see how far off the hurricane is. If you have some time, get the necessary essentials – batteries, milk, some drinking water, etc. You need to be prepared to ride this thing out.

In fact, really, all you can do is ride out a hurricane. In many ways it is a giant waiting game where you wait for it to be safe as a storm whips through your neighborhood. As far as where you can go, you definitely want to avoid windows. Hurricane winds can be strong enough to shatter glass and send the jagged pieces flying. You also don’t want to be anywhere high so avoid the second floor at all costs. Instead, hang around the basement, but make sure you have enough light and blankets to stay warm.

If you don’t have a basement, anywhere that there is a sturdy doorframe will work – a coat closet, the entrance to a bathroom, etc. Again, just make sure you avoid anywhere with windows.

Be smart and be safe.

Locating local shelters is a first step. When hurricanes reach a significant strength, or for low-lying areas facing increased risks of flooding or other troubles, local emergency shelters offer a safe and well-provisioned place for individuals and families to weather the storm. Many local emergency shelters are located at schools, hospitals and government buildings which benefit from having their own electricity generators, health care workers, and are well-stocked with food, water, blankets and other necessary items. Families with members with health concerns should check into whether or not local shelters are equipped to provide for their ongoing health and care.

Personal stocks of sufficient food and water are important to add to a hurricane safety emergency plan. With some communities going without clean running water for days or even weeks at a time, having a large quantity of drinking water available can make a great difference when it comes to surviving a hurricane.

Bring it with You
If you’re fleeing from a hurricane, travel light by packing only the essentials in your car. Important documents should go in the car first, like birth certificates, identification cards, and passports. Don’t forget your social security cards. Many people also bring family photographs and things that can’t be replaced, like wedding rings and valuable heirlooms.

When traveling in a car, be prepared to spend time in your car if it becomes a necessity. Blankets, food, and clean water should all be packed. If you have anyone with a special needs diet, such as a baby who needs baby food or someone on a gluten-free diet, bring food specifically for them.

Weathering out the Hurricane
If you’re staying at home during the hurricane, make sure you have the essentials on hand. Clean water and plenty of food are at the top of the list, since wind and water can damage the food and water supply. Make sure the food is canned, as the electricity in your town may be down.