Today marks the first day of hurricane season in the Atlantic, the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) has a few tips on how you can plan to stay safe from the upcoming storms.
The First 72 is on You
According to MEMA, residents should prepare for the first 72 hours after a hurricane hits as it may take hours before responders can assist others.
This means that it’s best to set aside enough supplies that can provide for you and your family for three days.
Supply Kit
Packing a bag with essentials is a highly recommended way to be prepared for any disaster, with MEMA suggesting to add the following to the bag:
- Important documents (Insurance cards, Social Security cards, etc.)
- Extra cash
- First aid kit and medications
- A battery-powered radio
- A three-day supply of drinking water for every family member and pet
- A three-day supply of non-perishable food for each family member and pet
- Flashlight
- Phone charger
- Extra batteries
- Personal hygiene items
- Face masks
Prepare Your Home
Trimming trees, cleaning gutters, checking windows and doors, and inspecting your roof are simple ways to keep your home safe through the stormy season.
Another way to prepare your home is to check your insurance coverage for flood damage and special deductibles for losses caused by named storms. If you need assistance with an insurance question or claim, call (601)359-3569, email consumer@mid.ms.gov or visit www.mid.ms.gov
One of the most important things you can do to be best prepared is to designate a safe room big enough for yourself and family.
Power Outages
Power outages are common during strong winds and rainfall, so it’s best to have plans for if your house loses power before the storm hits.
- Fully charge your cell phone
- Have batteries and a flashlight ready
- Have a plan for how to use medical devices powered by electricity
- Determine a way to keep refrigerated medications cold
If your power does go out, here are some tips you can use in your household:
- Keep freezers and refrigerators closed
- Only use generators outdoors
- Do not heat your home with a gas stove
- Stay away from fallen power lines
- Disconnect electronic devices to protect from surges
For more information on how to best be prepared for hurricane season across Mississippi, check MEMA’s Disaster Guide and website.
