Emergency Supply Kit:

• One gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation
• A three-day supply or more of non-perishable food with can opener if needed
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• First aid kit
• Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation
• Know what to do and where to go in an emergency
• Take charge of children, family, neighbors who may be elderly or have special needs, and pets
• Know evacuation routes and public shelters in your area
• Have a battery-powered radio and extra batteries
  
• Freeze Water Bottles.  Storms often cause blackouts, but you can keep food safe in your freezer by stocking it with water bottles. The frozen water bottles in your refrigerator will keep your food cool longer
  
• Fill the bathtub with water and keep the refrigerators and freezers closed
• Keep cell phone charged, use only for emergencies and have a portable charger 
• Fill up your car’s gas tank and have your emergency kit ready to go

Severe Thunderstorm Watch vs. Warning:
A Severe Thunderstorm Watch when the atmosphere is favorable for the development of severe thunderstorms. Watch the sky and stay tuned to NOAA Weather Radio, commercial radio or television for information.

A Severe Thunderstorm Warning when severe weather has been reported by spotters or indicated by radar. Warnings indicate imminent danger to life and property to those in the path of the storm.

Tornado Watch vs. Warning:
A Tornado Watch when weather conditions in an area indicate an increased risk for severe weather that may be capable of producing a tornado. 

A Tornado Warning when a tornado has been sighted or indicated by weather radar. A warning means you should take shelter immediately.

EVACUATE IF

• Local authorities have told you to
• You live in a high-rise building, hurricane winds are stronger at higher elevations. 
• You feel you are in danger

IF YOU CAN’T EVACUATE

• Seek shelter in inner hallway, a smaller interior room, or a closet. Keep away from all windows.
• Close all inside doors and secure and brace outside doors
• Keep curtains and blinds closed
• Do not go outside if the storm dies down; it could be the eye of the storm and winds will pick up again

IF YOU’RE OUTSIDE

• Try to get inside and seek a small protected space with no windows
• Avoid large-span roof areas such as school gymnasiums, arenas, or shopping malls
• If you cannot get inside, crouch for protection beside a strong structure or lie flat in a ditch or low-lying area and cover your head and neck with your arms or a piece of clothing

IF YOU’RE IN YOUR CAR

• Try to drive to the closest sturdy shelter
• Flying debris occurs while you are driving pull over and park. 
• Stay in the car with the seat belt on. Put your head down below the windows, covering with your hands and a blanket if possible
• If you can safely get noticeably lower than the level of the roadway, exit your car and lie in that area, covering your head with your hands.

Prepare For Power Outages 

WATCH YOUR WATER
After a storm or other natural disaster, public water supplies and private wells may not be safe to drink. Water that is dark, has an odor, or has floating pieces should not be used.

ELECTRICAL WIRES
Strong winds from a hurricane can knock down electrical wires. Some of these wires may be live. If you see a downed wire, DO NOT TOUCH IT as it could shock you and even kill you. Report it to your local police or fire department.

FLOODING
Severe rain during a hurricane could cause flooding which may cause structural damage, mold and loosen asbestos or lead pieces. Roads may be flooded and bridges washed out, so avoid driving in flooded areas.

MOLD
Water damage will cause mold to grow in your home. Porous items that have stayed wet in a home for more than 48 hours should be removed and thrown away. For more information about mold visit:

FOOD
Food may spoil if there is a loss of electricity. Check for and throw away any spoiled food.

INSECTS
Standing water after the storm can be the perfect place for disease-causing insects, like mosquitoes, to lay eggs. Empty out containers with standing water.

Make sure you have a plan if using Medical Devices when power goes out

FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT:

Hurricane Information For Myrtle Beach, South Carolina