Hurricane preparedness

Before the season — by 1 June

• •Agree where your household will shelter, and how you will reach each other if separated.
• •Check the roof, straps and shutters while there is time to fix them.
• •Clear drains, gutters and the gully near your property.
• •Trim branches that could come down on the house or the power line.
• •Photograph the property and keep documents in a sealed waterproof bag.
• •Know which official shelter serves your area.

Supply kit

• •Water — at least 4 litres per person per day for seven days.
• •Non-perishable food for seven days, and a manual tin opener.
• •Prescription medication for at least two weeks.
• •Torches and spare batteries. Not candles — they start fires.
• •A battery or wind-up radio, which works when the network does not.
• •Power bank, first aid kit, cash in small notes, and copies of documents.
• •Supplies for infants, older relatives and pets.

When a watch is issued

1. Fill vehicle fuel tanks and water containers.
2. Charge every device and power bank.
3. Bring in or secure anything loose outdoors — furniture, sheeting, tools, boats.
4. Fit shutters or board the windows.
5. Confirm your plan with anyone who is elderly, isolated or has mobility needs.

During the storm

After

• •Treat every downed line as live.
• •Avoid floodwater — it hides debris, sewage and washed-out road surface.
• •Check on neighbours who may not be able to check on themselves.
• •Photograph damage before clearing it, for insurance purposes.
• •Boil or treat water until the supply is confirmed safe.