Hurricane Watch Versus Hurricane Warning

During a Hurricane Watch

(A Hurricane Watch is issued when there is a threat of hurricane conditions within 24-36 hours.)

• Listen to a battery-operated radio or television for hurricane progress reports.
• Check emergency supplies.
• Fuel car
• Bring in outdoor objects such as lawn furniture, toys, and garden tools and anchor objects that cannot be brought inside.
• Secure buildings by closing and boarding up windows. Remove outside antennas.
• Turn refrigerator and freezer to coldest settings. Open only when absolutely necessary and close quickly.
• Store drinking water in clean bathtubs, jugs, bottles, and cooking utensils.
• Store valuables and personal papers in a waterproof container on the highest level of your home.
• Review evacuation plan.
• Moor boat securely or move it to a designated safe place. Use rope or chain to secure boat to trailer. Use tie downs to anchor trailer to the ground or house.

During a Hurricane Warning

(A Hurricane Warning is issued when hurricane conditions (winds of 74 miles per hour or greater, or dangerously high water and rough seas) are expected in 24 hours or less.)

• Listen constantly to a battery-operated radio or television for official instructions.
• If in a mobile home, check tie downs and evacuate immediately.
• Avoid elevators.

If at home:

• Stay inside, away from windows, skylights, and glass doors.
• Keep a supply of flashlights and extra batteries handy. Avoid open flames, such as candles and kerosene lamps, as a source of light.
• If power is lost, turn off major appliances to reduce power “surge” when electricity is restored.