Process Analysis Essay

Preparing for a Hurricane/Storm

Seven hurricanes and four tropical storms are predicted during this year's hurricane season, which runs from June 1 through November 30. You should know how to prepare your family and home, procedures to be taken during the storm and the aftermath. You can ward off some of the dangers if you are prepared which allows to you to stay ahead of the storm.

If you do not have a family disaster plan, one should be prepared right away. Portable radio, torch lights, candles or lanterns should be working and extra batteries obtained. Ensure that other family members and friends are aware of the situation. Checks should be done around the house to ensure windows and glass doors are boarded up. Taping windows will not prevent breakage, but will help reduce shattering. Check trees and shrubbery, and remove limbs that could damage your house or utility lines. You don't need to go out and buy unfamiliar foods to prepare an emergency food supply. You can use the canned foods, dry mixes and other staples on your cupboard shelves. Keep a supply of cooking and eating implements that can be used in the absence of running water or electricity, including; plastic utensils, paper cups and plates, a heating source, such as a camp stove or canned heat stove, and extra fuel. Water and non-perishable or canned foods should be collected to last at least three day. Vehicle gas tanks should be also filled up. All important documents such as birth certificates, insurance policies, passports should be kept in a water-tight container or in plastic envelopes. If you don't think your home can withstand the storm, move to a safer location with friends or relatives or to an emergency shelter. Listen to your radio and or television for updates on the storms.

During the storm, it is safest to use a battery-powered radio or television to monitor what is taking place. If power is lost, turn off major appliances such as the air conditioner and water heater to reduce damage. Stay inside and keep away from windows or glass doors. Stay on the leeward, or downwind, side of the house. If the storm center passes over your area, there will be a short period of calm. The wind and rain may cease, but do not go outside. Remember, at the other side of the eye, the wind speed rapidly increases to hurricane force and will come from the opposite direction. Monitor your radio or TV for the latest weather advisories and other emergency information. Stay on the downwind side of the house. Find a safe area in your home an interior, reinforced room, closet or bathroom on the lower floor. Wait for official word before you leave your home.

When inspecting a house for hurricane damage, make sure there is no live power in or around the house. Make extra sure that main electrical breakers are off. The most common repairs will involve nailing plywood or taping heavy plastic to broken windows, ceilings, and walls. Also there are several health and safety hazards that remain even after the hurricane's wind and rain