6 Safety Tips on Preparing for a Hurricane

Do you live in a Hurricane-prone state? With their ability to carry trillions of gallons of water, hurricanes are one of the most destructive forces in Mother Nature. According to the Insurance Information Institute (III), roughly a dozen named hurricanes make landfall in the United States each year. While some of the hurricanes are small, others are larger and more damaging. If you're stuck in the path of a hurricane, though, there are several steps you can take to better prepare for it.

#1) Fill Your Bathtub With Water

It may sound unusual, but filling your bathtub with water -- and plugging the drain -- is a great way to prepare for a hurricane. When a hurricane strikes, you may find yourself without access to clean water. Filling your bathtub with water, however, creates a surplus of water that you and your family can use until the storm has passed.

#2) Use the Quarter Trick

Another way to prepare for a hurricane is to use the quarter trick. This involves filing a cup with water and placing it inside your freezer. Once the water has frozen, place a quarter on top of it. As long as the quarter hasn't sunk to the bottom, all your frozen food is still good. If the quarter sinks to the bottom, on the other hand, you shouldn't consume any meat stored in your freezer.

#3) Get a Weather Radio

If you haven't done so already, you should invest in a weather radio. Even if you have a traditional "plug-in" radio, it's still a good idea to purchase a separate weather radio that's either battery powered or hand cranked. That way, you'll be able to keep tabs on the hurricane status in your local area at all times.

#4) Stockpile Nonperishable Food

Don't forget to stockpile nonperishable food before the hurricane strikes. A good rule of thumb is to keep at least seven days of food and water on hand. Nonperishable food includes canned meat and canned vegetables that don't require cooking over a fire or heat.

#5) Stay Indoors and Avoid Windows

Once the hurricane begins to make its way towards your home, stay indoors and avoid going near windows. To say hurricanes are powerful would be an understatement. They can easily blast through glass windows. And if you happen to be standing near a window when this occurs, it could result in serious injury.

#6) Plan Evacuation Route

Finally, you should plan an evacuation route just in case the hurricane forces you to leave your home. Assuming you have a weather radio, local officials should provide guidance on how to evacuate. By following their advice, you'll stay safe during this hectic weather event.