Check out the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale<\/strong> which is used to rate hurricanes from 1 to 5 based on sustained wind speed. This will give you an estimate of the potential for property damage. Storms above category 3 are considered major hurricanes because of their significant damage and potential loss of life.<\/p>\n To download our Hurricane Safety brochure (PDF)<\/a>.<\/p>\n Be Ready when an evacuation is called for your area. Roads and highways will be crowded so leave early if possible. Make sure you have a full tank of gas before hitting the road.<\/p><\/blockquote>\n If you decide to not evacuate, make sure you are prepared to ride out the storm. Stay off the streets and either stay at home or move to a designated shelter. Stay Away from windows and doors. Even lower-category storms can toss debris around that could break through a glass window. Stay Indoors until the storm is over. Do not use your generator until after the storm has passed. Even minor hurricanes can produce torrential rainfall, high wind, and tornadoes when they make landfall. Once on land, these storms can travel for hundreds of miles. Stay in tune with your local radio station and be aware of changing conditions for the possibility of flooding and tornadoes.<\/p>\n Returning after the storm, if you evacuated, can take some time. Roads may be covered with debris, flooding, and fallen power lines. Listen to local radio and TV stations before trying to return to see what conditions are like in your area and wait until the area is declared safe. Have documentation to prove that you own a home, property, or business in the area, as law enforcement may turn you away if you cannot show you belong there.<\/p>\n If you see fallen power lines, call Dixie Electric or 911 immediately. Keep a distance away from downed power lines and always assume the lines are energized!<\/strong> These can be potential hazards and could create further injury and fires.<\/p><\/blockquote>\n The scale was developed in 1971 by civil engineer Herbert Saffir and meteorologist Robert Simpson.\u00a0 The scale classifies hurricanes and cyclones that exceed the intensities of tropical depressions and tropical storms.\u00a0 The categories are divided by the intensities of their sustained winds.\u00a0 The categories also provide an indication of the type of damage and flooding that may be expected with the storm upon landfall.<\/p>\n In the United States, 315 hurricanes were recorded to have made landfall between 1851 and 2012. Over one-third of these hurricanes (116) were classified as major hurricanes (designated Category 3 and higher on the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Scale). Hurricanes have made landfall in Florida more than in any other state. The second most hurricane-affected state is Texas, but every state on the Gulf Coast and bordering the Atlantic Ocean is susceptible to damage caused by hurricanes, as are U.S. island possessions and territories. Hurricanes between 1900 and 2006 resulted in 17,832 deaths. Hurricanes are categorized by the damage observed.<\/p>\n\nWhen You Know the Hurricane Is Coming<\/h2>\n
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Hurricanes give you time to prepare before they get near land. Stay tuned to local radio and TV stations, The Weather Channel, and the National Hurricane Center for risk information in your area. Know if you live in an evacuation area and make sure you know your evacuation route(s) before the storm approaches. Assess your risks for damage from storm surges, flooding, and wind, and plan your evacuation if necessary. Have a meeting place, or designated phone contact if separated.<\/p>\n\n
Emergency Kit<\/h2>\n
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Basic supplies should be prepared in case you need to leave or are planning to stay in your home as the storm passes. Chances are the power will be out as well as other services for several days or longer.<\/p>\n\n
Taking Shelter during a Hurricane<\/h2>\n
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Secure your pets before the storm approaches. Pets can become panicked during the storm, so a small interior room with a blanket can comfort them. If you have a pet carrier, make sure you secure the carrier in a safe place, and give your pet a blanket or familiar toy inside the carrier to help keep them calm. Make sure they have fresh water available. When the calm \u201ceye\u201d of the storm passes, it may seem like the storm is over, but after the eye passes, the winds will change direction and quickly return to hurricane force again. Stay tuned to local radio for information. Heavy rainfall and flooding can still occur even after the hurricane has passed. Use the telephone only in case of emergency.<\/p>\n\n
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During a major hurricane, emergency responders, law enforcement, and fire personnel may not be available until after the storm passes.<\/p><\/blockquote>\nAfter the Hurricane Passes<\/h2>\n
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Critical<\/h3>\n
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Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale<\/h2>\n