| 5 steps to follow during the 2012 hurricane season |
 1. Stock up: Perhaps the most important thing to do is gather items you might need if you become trapped or stranded. Even in a worst case scenario, if your house is compromised or you are unable to leave it, you and your family will be okay once you have taken the time to put together the essential items. 2. Keep an eye on the weather: A storm is at its most dangerous when it is unexpected. If you’re watching the hurricane, you will rid yourself of the helpless feeling that it’s an invisible enemy that can’t be guarded against. You’ll know when it’s about to hit your area or head in another direction. 3. Guard your windows: If you plan to stay in your house, you must make it as secure as possible. Windows should become barricades – against rain, wind, and flying objects. There are two parts to this procedure. First, limit the number of things that could come crashing into the side of your home. Make sure to bring in all outdoor furniture, decorations, garbage cans and anything else that is not tied down. Keep all trees and shrubs well-trimmed. Second, fortify the windows themselves. This can be done with plywood or hurricane shutters. Hurricane proof glass is another popular option. 4. Make a simple but thoughtful plan: A family disaster plan will keep you organized: the last thing you want is for a moments panic to ruin all your careful preparation. Things to decide about: The evacuation of any pets and determine escape routes. In addition to uniting your family under a single mode of operation, a well constructed disaster plan should incorporate other families and friends nearby. Maintain communication with them and work together if need be. 5. After it’s over: be careful: Hazards don’t vanish the second a hurricane moves on. The Department of Disaster Management and Emergencies can give you some pointers for the hours after the immediate storm. One of the priorities will be to clean and repair damaged areas of the house and mopping up flooded rooms. Don’t risk injury or infection. There can be emotional ramifications to deal with as well as the physical ones. A crucial step in healing trauma is to acknowledge your feelings, and also focus on your strengths and abilities. Remember that it is normal to be shaken, spacey, sad or angry. Talk with others about the ordeal you have been through and rebuild together, as a community. Storm Shelters (Pets are not permitted) Providenciales Middle Caicos North Caicos South Caicos Grand Turk Salt Cay 2012 storm names Alberto
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