Know your risk, and know what's happening in the tropics DAILY! (Download a hurricane tracking chart)

• Is your home vulnerable to flooding?
• Consult your home's building plans for your first floor elevation
• Special circumstances: (Requiring additional preparation time and/or evacuation time.)
• Mobile homes/recreational vehicles
• People with special needs
• Pets
• Boats

Know the strength of the hurricane:

• Category One - 74-95 mph sustained winds
• Category Two - 96-110 mph sustained winds
• Category Three - 111-130 mph sustained winds
• Category Four - 131-155 mph sustained winds
• Category Five - sustained winds of more than 155 mph!

Determine where you will seek shelter, and select an alternate.

• Stay at home if in a well built home out of the risk area
• Friend's house, if out of the risk area
• Hotel or motel located inland. Arrange for pets!
• Emergency public hurricane refuge operated by Collier County and/or the American Red Cross

Take a practice drive to your shelter choice or evacuation destination.

• Time the trip and multiply by three (3) to account for pre-storm road and traffic conditions.
• Make the commitment NOW to evacuate when told to do so by local or state officials.

If you do not have flood insurance, consult your insurance agent NOW concerning purchase details.

• There is a THIRTY (30) day waiting period before coverage begins!

Prepare a hurricane kit!

Remain indoors during a hurricane.

• Blowing debris can injure or kill.
• Travel is extremely dangerous.
• Stay inside until Collier County authorities have announced that your area is safe.
• Stay away from windows.
• Avoid using electrical appliances.
• If you do not evacuate, seek refuge in an interior, windowless area such as a hallway, closet or bathroom.
• Listen to local media and NOAA Weather Radio for the latest information.

Expect the WORST!

Be careful of:

• downed power lines
• gas leaks
• weakened structures
• dangerous animals
• poisonous snakes

Don't drink tap water.

Eat only foods you are absolutely sure are safe.

Be extra careful in handling:

• power tools
• matches
• generators
• gas lanterns

Don't use candles for lighting!

Call your insurance company to file a claim, if your home is damaged.

Listen to LOCAL radio and television stations and NOAA Weather Radio for official disaster relief information and instructions.

Do NOT listen to, or spread rumors!

Updated 28 July 2001 by Rick Zyvoloski, RichardZyvoloski@colliergov.net