JUPITER INLET COLONY

POLICE DEPARTMENT

Hurricane Safety

This information is provided to assist you in developing your own family hurricane plan in the event that a storm is approaching.  Preparing is the key to the safety of you and your family.


Click HERE for Palm Beach County Division of Emergency Management comprehensive storm website.


Develop a Family Hurricane Plan 


Discuss the types of hazards that could affect your family. Know your home’s vulnerability to storm surge, flooding and wind. Secure your home (doors and windows).  Locate a SAFE ROOM or the SAFE AREAS in the home for each hurricane hazard. Determine safe escape routes and meeting places prior to the storm.  Have an out-of-state friend as a family contact, so all your family members have a single point of contact. Make arrangements prior to the storm for pets in case of mandatory evacuation. Gather all non-emergency phone numbers and discuss the proper use of 911 with all children. Prepare a Family First Aid Kit and put it in the SAFE ROOM. Have a battery-operated radio for weather and safety updates.


​Prepare a Disaster Supply Kit: 


  • Water (1 gallon per person for 3 to 7 days)
  • Food (3 to 7 day supply for each person)

            •    non-perishable packaged or canned food/juices

            •    foods for infants or elderly individuals

            •    snack foods

            •    non-electric can opener

            •    cooking tools/fuel

            •    paper plates/plastic utensils

  • Blankets/Pillows, etc.
  • Clothing
  • First Aid Kit/Medicines/Prescription Drugs
  • Special Items
  • Toiletries/Hygiene items/Moisture wipes
  • Flashlight/Batteries
  • Radio (battery operated)
  • Cash
  • Keys
  • Toys/Books/Games for children
  • Important documents (waterproof container: birth certificates, insurance documents, medical records, bank account information, pictures)
  • Tools
  • Vehicle fuel tanks filled
  • Pet care items (If not going to shelter)


Hurricane Watch vs. Hurricane Warning Know the Difference


Hurricane Watch: Hurricane conditions are a possibility for a specific area usually within 24 to 36 hours. 

Hurricane Warning: A Hurricane is expected within 24 hours or less (winds 74 miles per hour or greater, or dangerously high water or rough seas). Begin precautionary actions immediately. 


Hurricane Watch - What To Do 


  • Listen to local radio and television stations for up-to-date storm information.
  • Prepare to bring inside any lawn furniture, outdoor decorations, trashcans, hanging plants, and anything else that can become a flying object during a storm.
  • Cover all windows and doors of your home.
  • Fill your car/vehicles with gas.
  • Check your Disaster Supply Kit.
  • Turn refrigerator/freezer to coldest settings.
  • Store drinking water in clean jugs, and bottles.
  • Secure boats and trailers.
  • Make arrangements for pets.
  • Make arrangements for elderly and others with special needs such as those who depend on electrical life support.
  • Make arrangements for a shelter if you are in an evacuation area.


Hurricane Warning - What To Do 


  • Listen to local radio and television stations and listen to the advice of local officials on whether to evacuate or not.
  • Complete preparation for storm.
  • If you are not advised to evacuate, stay indoors and away from windows.
  • Be aware that the calm “eye” of the storm is deceptive; the storm is not over. Stay inside until local officials say it is safe to leave the home.
  • Be alert of tornados. Stay indoors, in the center of your home, in a closet or bathroom without windows.
  • Stay away from floodwaters.


After the Storm - What To Do


  • Listen to local radio and television stations for safety instructions.
  • If evacuated, return to home when local officials tell you to.
  • Stay away from disaster areas. DO NOT SIGHTSEE!!!
  • Obey all curfews and emergency orders that are issued.
  • If you must drive, drive with CAUTION!! Lights are down, so use all four-way intersections as a four way stop.
  • Advise interested parties that you are safe.
  • Call for emergency workers if medical assistance is needed.
  • Avoid downed power lines. Assume that they are all live.
  • Use flashlights in the dark, not candles.