In the United States, hurricanes have been a historical source of destruction for countless geographic regions across the country. With the potential to cause billions of dollars in damage, hurricanes are often considered one of the costliest natural disasters common to North America and its shores.
With hurricane season underway, one of the most effective ways to ensure one’s safety amidst deadly winds and rains is to become familiar with the appropriate local hurricane safety and preparation guidelines.
In this article, we’ll discuss how people can better prepare for hurricanes, stay safe in moments of natural disaster and how the NAFC, our partners and Free and Charitable Clinics respond to hurricanes that affect communities in the United States.
Contents:
- What is Hurricane Season, and How Long Does It Last?
- How to Stay Safe and Prepared for Hurricane Season
- The NAFC Disaster Relief Fund
What is hurricane season, and how long does it last?
Also known as cyclones or typhoons, hurricanes have the potential to cause monumental damage through high winds, flooding, and heavy rainfall. Even more frightening, hurricanes are also incredibly mobile, having the ability to maneuver the ocean from an Atlantic origin point all the way to an opposing coast in just a few weeks.
The Atlantic hurricane season begins the first week of June and formally ends in the last week of November.
How to stay safe and prepared for hurricane season
With September being National Preparedness Month, an observance to raise awareness about the importance of preparing for disasters and emergencies that could happen at any time – it is a perfect time to be prepared.
Knowing what to do when a hurricane strikes is the first and more important step to ensuring the safety of you and your loved ones before, during, and after periods of heavy rain and wind.
Come Up With a Disaster Plan
Hurricane preparedness begins with the establishment of a disaster plan. Document all emergency phone numbers and display them in a highly visible area of your home, such as the refrigerator, and identify primary and alternate routes from your home in the event of a necessary evacuation.
Collect and Maintain Emergency Supplies
Prepare an emergency supply kit of essential tools and other necessities, such as bottled water and non-perishable food items. Ensure all medications and important documents are kept in a safe and easily accessible location, such as a portable safe.
Prepare for the Event of Evacuation
In the event of an evacuation, preparation is key. Before the storm is expected to strike your area, ensure your vehicles are filled with gas, children and pets have all been accounted for, and your home is locked and secure. Be sure to stay informed with any updates from local authorities, emergency warnings and alerts.
NAFC Disaster Relief Fund
At NAFC, we’re proud to support our communities and clinics across the country in their constant efforts to promote and provide life-saving health care and assistance to those in need of it most.
During periods of natural disaster, Free and Charitable Clinics support countless hurricane victims in affected communities through access to the healthcare resources, medications, food and supplies they need to get back on their feet as the wind and rain die down.
As storms develop and in the aftermath, the NAFC communicates with our clinics in affected states to help coordinate any needed assistance with our many partners that are ready and able to help, including Americares, Direct Relief, Heart to Heart International and Project Hope.
For more information about preparing effectively for hurricane season this year, or to learn more about the NAFC Disaster Relief Fund, visit our website today!