May 15th - May 21st is "National Hurricane Preparedness Week"

May 15th- May 21st is "National Hurricane Preparedness Week". Even though hurricanes don't normally occur in this area, it could still happen and we should all be prepared. A hurricane is a massive storm system that forms over the water and moves towards the land. Along with a threat of a hurricane comes high winds, heavy rainfall, storm surge, coastal and inland flooding, rip currents and tornadoes.

Tips on how to prepare for a hurricane include:

• Have an evacuation plan.
• Only pack necessary items (i.e. medicine)
• Reinforce your garage doors; if wind enters a garage it can cause dangerous and expensive structural damage.
• Use flashlights in the dark; do not use candles.
• Plan to bring in all outdoor furniture, decorations, garbage cans and anything else that is not tied down.

After a storm hits, inspect your home for damage. Take pictures of damage, both of the building and its contents for insurance purposes.

For more information, please visit www.nws.noaa.gov/com/weatherreadynation/hurricane_preparedness.html.