What is a Hurricane Watch? Hurricane conditions are possible in a specified area, usually within 36 hours.
What is a Hurricane Warning? Hurricane conditions are expected in a specified area, usually within 24 hours.
As with any storm, it’s a good idea to be prepared for potential outages. Extensive hurricane information is available, while basic information follows for preparing for a hurricane. Store your outage preparedness kit in a designated place so it is easy to find should the need arise. Some things to do or include:
When a Watch is Issued
- If considering moving to a shelter, make arrangements for all pets. Pets are not allowed in shelters.
- Store canned or package foods, powdered milk and beverages, dry cereal, canned tuna fish, peanut butter, crackers, etc. (at least a three-day non-perishable food supply);
- water (for drinking purposes, one gallon per person per day; fill bathtub and other containers);
- a first aid kit;
- water purification tablets (these can be purchased at your local pharmacy);
- bleach (without lemon or any other additives);
- refill prescription medicine and/or medical supplies;
- candles, matches, and lantern;
- fuel (be sure to fill up your car’s gas tank when storm warnings are set);
- fire extinguisher;
- a battery-operated radio;
- flashlights and extra batteries;
- toiletries;
- a can opener (non-electric);
- disposable plates and eating utensils;
- emergency cooking facilities;
- baby food, diapers, and formula;
- a portable cooler; and
- extra blankets or sleeping bags.
When Hurricane Warning is issued:
• If you live in a mobile home, check tie downs and leave immediately for a safer place.
• Prepare for high winds by bracing down garage doors, lowering antennas, and anchoring or bringing in outdoor objects.
• Store important documents in waterproof containers and store in highest possible spot. If you evacuate be sure to take them with you.
• If you own a boat, secure or move to a safe location.
• As the storm intensifies, stay away from doors and windows. Go to an interior room, like a closet or bathroom.
• Don't go out in the brief calm, during the passage of the eye of the storm. The lull sometimes ends suddenly as winds return from the opposite direction.
Please click on the link below to get more information on how to prepare your family and property for severe weather.
Pet Safety-Don’t forget to have a plan for your pets too!
• Make sure your pets are current on their vaccinations. Pet shelters may require proof of vaccines.
• Keep a collar with identification on your pet and have a leash on hand to control your pet.
• Have a properly-sized pet carrier for each animal - carriers should be large enough for the animal to stand and turn around.
Pet shelters will be filled on first come, first served basis. Call ahead and determine availability.
After the Storm
• If you are evacuated, delay return until authorities say it is safe to return.
• Watch out for loose, dangling or downed power lines. Stay away and report them immediately to your power company.
• Be aware of snakes, poisonous insects, and other animals that my be a hazard.
• Check food. Food may spoil if refrigerator power is off more than a few hours. Freezers will keep food several days if doors are not opened after power failure, but do not refreeze food once it thaws.
• Stay home if possible. Roads may be blocked or flooded, down power lines and trees may also be blocking roads.
• Call 911 only during emergencies.
Catastrophes like hurricanes and floods may cause extended outages. You can rest assured that Four County Electric personnel work as quickly as possible to restore your electrical service.