Aerial photo of flooding at Cypremort Point, La., after Hurricane Lili in 2002.

Early preparation is essential if you're in a hurricane-prone area.

Hurricane season isn’t something we necessarily look forward to in Louisiana, but it is something we need to be aware of and need to prepare for in advance. Beginning June 1 is hurricane season which usually runs through November 30. In recent years, the most devastating storms in Louisiana have rolled in around August and September, but it’s never too soon to start preparing. There are steps you can take to make sure your family is prepared and ready to go when and if storms roll in this year.

Have a planned evacuation route and destination. Make sure everyone in your family is aware of the plans. Put together an emergency communication plan for staying in touch and messaging family and friends. Be sure that your emergency phone/contact list is up to date.

Call your insurance company and check to see that your homeowners and flood insurance coverage is up to date and is sufficient enough to replace your dwelling and belongings should they become damaged or destroyed. A quick inventory of property and belongings is a good idea. If you have the proper equipment, use a video camera or other type of camera to record the inventory. Keep copies of your policies, inventory, and other important papers and valuables in a safe place; one that is waterproof and fireproof is your best bet.

Knowing how to turn off the utilities to your home is a good idea when a storm is approaching. For example: electricity, gas and water. Trimming trees and shrubs now is a good idea to prepare for storm season. Have supplies on hand such as boards, nails, ropes, straps and tarps to secure your home, outdoor items, boat, and pool. Devise a plan for what you will do with animals and pets in the event of a hurricane.

A kit with emergency survival supplies is always a good idea. The kit should contain items such as batteries, a battery-operated radio, flashlights, lanterns, fuel, nonperishable food for at least three days, drinking water – at least 2 quarts per person per day, manual can opener, medications, cash, matches, insect repellent, first aid kit, disposable plates, cups and utensils. An ice chest is another good item to have on hand for keeping food items and/or medications cold in the event of a disaster.

Is your car in good working order and ready for an evacuation trip? Make sure you get it checked out. Check the tires as well as the spare. Have an emergency supply kit that includes tire repair items, small shovel and maps in your car. Consider how much gas you will need, along with the cost to get where you are going. Make reservations well ahead of time if you plan to evacuate to a hotel/motel.

These are just a few things to keep in mind as hurricane season arrives.

If you have any questions on this topic, please contact:
Amy Juneau, Family & Consumer Sciences Extension Agent
LSU AgCenter Extension Office in St. Mary Parish
337-828-4100 Ext.300

The LSU AgCenter has a variety of resources on topics such as hurricane preparedness, and disaster information.

Resources:

Merrill, Thomas A. (2006, updated 2008). Are you ready for a hurricane?

National Hurricane Center (2009)