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More personal telephone calls are made on Mother's Day in the USA than on any other day in any other country.

Hurricane Season 2006

by Sierra A. Martin

The envitable hurricane season has stepped into stride early this 2006 season. Unfortunately the devastation and impact of these hurricane storms has left numerous affects well beyond the coastal areas in which bare the brunt of her wrath.

Deputy Secretary of Commerce, David Sampson recently promoted President Bush’s message in “Preparation is the key” when speaking at the NOAA Nation Hurricane Center. The primary focus this year is helping individuals and families take precautionary measures in order to protect their lives and livelihoods during the hurricane season.

The forecast completed by the National Hurricane Center for the Atlantic regions predicts a very strong and active hurricane season with an estimated 13 -16 storms, of which 8 – 10 are expected to reach “major hurricane status” meaning a Category 3 or higher.

This Atlantic region hurricane season began June 1 and will run through November 30. The most volatile being represented in the later two months.

In addition to the vulnerability of the Atlantic region, the eastern Pacific region holds an entirely separate forecast for its hurricane season as stated by the National Hurricane Center.

The eastern Pacific hurricane season began on May 15 and will also run till November 30 with the majority of its hurricane activity looming from July to September. The Pacific region is significantly lower with an expected 15 – 16 tropical storms, out of which nine hurricanes are expected to rear their ugly heads. The good news is an estimated 1 – 3 will actually reach the “major hurricane status” and hit the Category 3 or beyond.

This intrepid season boasts a variety of hazard ranging from flooding, storm surges, tornadoes, and high winds. The National Hurricane Center has carefully looked at the history of the past few years, they are keenly aware of the grave dangers for those who are unprepared for hurricanes. That being said, each family should have a plan in place when the inevitable hurricane comes knocking at the door.

Family Disaster Plan

1. Know the hazards that could affect your family and home.
2. Locate a safe room or plan in advance the nearest community shelter.
3. Determine escape routes from home and a place to meet.
4. Choose an out of state contact that all family members are to contact in the event of separation.
5. Post emergency numbers by phones – update contact numbers with schools, work and on your person (i.e. your wallet and handbag).
6. Make plans for the safety of your pets (see Pet Emergency Plan).
7. Teach children how and when to call 911 for emergencies.
8. Update insurance coverage as most homeowners do not cover flooding.
9. Stock up on non-perishable food items and supplies.
10. Create master Disaster Supply Kit (see Disaster Supply Kit).
11. Keep a weather radio handy with extra batteries.

Although there are many things that can be done in preparation for the hurricane, noone knows when a hurricane disaster will strike. Preparing for all the members of your family in advance is the best possible scenario. When planning for your families remember your faithful friends and protect your pets at the beginning signs of the storm. Pets should always be brought in well in advance.

Disaster Supply Needs

1. Important Documents – insurance information, medical records, bank account information, social security numbers, current photo of each family member and pet, emergency contact numbers (keep these items in a waterproof container or sealed plastic bag).
2. Water – 1 gallon per person for 3 -7 days
3. Food -- enough to last 3 – 7 days of non-perishable items, canned or boxed, food for infants and elderly, snack items (dehydrated fruit and nuts) hand can-opener, cooking tools and fuel, paper plates, napkins, and plastic silverware
4. Blankets, pillows, and sleeping bags
5. Seasonal clothing, rain gear, sturdy shoes
6. First aid kit, prescriptions, and medications
7. Toiletries, hygiene items, moist wipes
8. Flashlights and extra batteries
9. Radio battery operated and weather radio with extra batteries
10. Telephones – cell phones fully charged and a basic telephone (not the cordless type)
11. Cash and credit cards (include small bills and change as it is likely that ATMs will not be available)
12. Vehicles with full fuel tanks and back-up fuel
13. Pet care items
14. Tool kit (keep this with you at all times)
15. Keys
16. Books, toys, and games

Pet Emergency Plan

When preparing your personal emergency supplies remember to include these essentials for the safety of your animal:
1. A copy of current vaccinations and rabies tags
2. Pet crate or carrier
3. Recent photo,
4. Collar; leash or muzzle,
5. Medications, food, water,
6. Newspaper and disposable baggies
7. Any specific care instructions with your local and emergency contact information.

When planning your evacuation route or staying in your safe room these items should be part of the preparation.
One final note: most pet shelters are on a first come first serve basis and should be contacted in advance.

There is as unusually great probability you will have to persevere through numerous tropical storms this hurricane season and even greater chance that your families will have to endure the affects of the ever so demonstrative hurricane. Take time to prepare for the hurricane season and protect those you love. Help those who can not help themselves. For further information about current conditions and storm tracking please contact the National Hurricane Center . Always remember: when in doubt, remember common sense is always your best ally.

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