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11 News Meteorologist David Paul’s Hurricane Tips
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Standard procedure for hurricane prep here in southeast Texas includes food and water for you and family for 3-5 days, flashlights, battery operated radio and knowing evacuation routes if you live in coastal counties. But what about places further inland, like say, the Jersey Village area where I live? Here's what I do to stay ready for hurricane season.
First, I keep enough food and water for my family to survive for 10 (yes, TEN) days. This is because if and when we get a direct hit from a major hurricane (Ike was a category 2 folks, not a major hurricane) the number of trees that will come down in inland neighborhoods will be staggering and may very well keep you from getting out, or emergency supplies from getting in to your spot for at least a week. I have an old Coleman stove and extra propane tanks to cook things like dry pasta, canned soups and to boil water with in case there is contamination. Think of it as if you are going to be on a long camping trip.. at home!
I have a small generator. Not big enough to run my home A/C but enough to keep my fridge running with a couple of lamps too. Having ice and a cold drink is a HUGE luxury when the power is out for a month or two... yes, that's right, power will be out for a month or two in many areas if a cat 4 or 5 hits us. I store a couple of large empty gas cans in the garage and at the first sign of a storm I fill them up. Always keep your car gas tank at least half full during hurricane season so your'e not in a line and in a rush to fill up with a storm bearing down on us.
Probably the most important thing I do and you must do is watch the weather AT LEAST ONCE A DAY during hurricane season. This way you'll never get caught off guard and in a rush to prepare, stuck in long lines when supplies are running out. Preparation is the key to success.
My favorite memory of hurricane Ike... Playing the most rousing game of Monopoly with my family by candlelight at the kitchen table. We all learned a few new things about 'Grannie-Frannie' that evening!!!
God Bless,
David Paul
Resources To Help You Get Ready For A Disaster:
Videos From FEMA:
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