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(CNN) - This is not a drill.
Meteorologists say a hurricane is coming. The authorities have issued the evacuation order. You need to get moving.
So what should you do first? First, don't panic. There are many steps you can take to protect yourself, protect your loved ones and your property.
Here is a list to help you get started, with advice from the American Red Cross, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the Department of Homeland Security and the National Hurricane Center.
Read it below. To anyone who is in the path of a hurricane, we recommend that you check these resources online to stay safe.
READ : Hurricane Dorian is strengthening and could affect the US as category 3
What to do as the storm approaches
- Stay inside
- Protect windows and doors with permanent shutters or plywood
- Follow local radio news or television channels for new information
- Download the Red Cross emergency application (for iPhone and Android)
- Have a hurricane lamp
- Make sure all your pets have identification tags
- Store all outdoor furniture, trash cans, toys and gardening tools inside to prevent them from flying out
- Find local emergency shelters
- Fill plastic bottles with drinking water
- Fill the bathtubs with water
- Fill your car's gas tank
- Disconnect all small devices and turn off propane tanks
- Buy a fire extinguisher
- Have a backpack ready and learn the evacuation routes of your area
What to have on hand as the storm approaches
- First aid kit with instructions
- Fire extinguisher
- Flashlights
- Extra batteries
- Sleeping bags and sheets
- Cookware
- Multi-day supply of your prescription medications
- Paper plates, cups and napkins
- Canned or non-perishable food
- Starter cables
- Maps
- Road kit
- GPS
- Cell phones and chargers
- Cash
- Toilet paper
- Disinfectant
- Garbage bags
- Plastic bucket with airtight lid
- Household chlorine
- Feminine hygiene items
- Soap
- Wet wipes
- Waterproof
- Sturdy shoes
What to do when the storm comes
- Let your loved ones know that you are well. You can put on Facebook that you are safe or use the Safe and Well website.
- Document any damage to your property with photographs. Contact your insurance company for assistance.
further
- If you evacuated, return only when the authorities have warned that it is safe to do so.
- Stay alert for tornadoes. They usually occur because of hurricanes.
- Avoid contact with floods. They may be contaminated with sewage or carry insects or dangerous animals.
- Never walk or drive on flooded roads or through floods.
- Check for fallen or unstable trees, poles or power lines.
- Do not drink tap water unless authorities say it is safe.