Weather Emergency Terms You Should Know
Hurricane WARNING: A hurricane is expected in the warning area within 24
hours. If advised to evacuate, do so immediately.
Hurricane WATCH: A hurricane is possible in the watch area within 36 hours.
Stay tuned for additional advisories.
How to Prepare for a Hurricane
Be Prepared BEFORE a Hurricane Occurs:
• Determine if building(s) are in a hurricane evacuation area. Consult your local emergency management office (http://www.nhoem.state.nh.us/).
• Have pre-planned fiood evacuation routes and practice using them.
• Make sure you have ready access to emergency equipment such as flashlights, first aid kits and a battery operated radio.
• Make plans to protect buildings. For example, pre-cut S/8" marine plywood, cut to fit, ready to install over windows and
doors is an option.
• Know how to shut off utilities in your building(s).
• Secure buildings. Close storm shutters. Secure outdoor objects or bring them inside.
• Avoid elevators.
• If power is lost, turn off major appliances to reduce power surge when electricity is restored.
• Store valuables and important documents in a waterproof container on the highest level of your building.
A backup generator properly installed in an outdoor setting is always useful in
an emergency situation. If you have one, inspect it periodically to make sure
it will function properly when needed. Always store fuel in UC I factory mutual
approved containers away from the generator. Allow a cool down period
before refueling.
DURING and AFTER a Hurricane:
• Listen for current weather reports and emergency information.
• If you are not required to evacuate, stay indoors and away from
windows. Go to the basement. If there is no basement, go to an interior part of the structure on the lowest level, closets, interior hallways and bathrooms. Do not be fooled if there is a lull, it could be the eye of the storm-winds will pick up again.
• Drive only when necessary. The streets may be filled with debris, making roads impassable.
• Stay away from downed power lines, trees and disaster areas.
• Water sources may have become contaminated.
• Avoid loose or dangling power lines and report them immediately to the power company, police, or fire department.
• Enter your building with caution.
• Open windows and doors to ventilate and dry your building(s).
Inspecting Utilities in a Damaged Building:
• Check for gas leaks. If you smell gas or hear blowing or hissing noise, open a window, quickly leave the building, and call your local fire department.
• Look for electrical system damage. If you see sparks or broken or frayed wires, or if
you smell hot insulation, turn off the electricity at the main fuse box or circuit breaker. If you have to step in water to get to the fuse box or circuit breaker do not do it!
• Check for sewage and water line damage. If you suspect sewage lines are damaged, avoid using the toilets and call a plumber. If water pipes are damaged, contact the water utility.
State and Federal Emergency Preparedness information is available at the following websites
ReadyNH.gov
ReadyNH.gov: Family Preparations
FEMA Hurricane Information for Kids
Ready.gov: Hurricanes
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration:
Watches, Warnings or Advisories for New Hampshire
National Hurricane Center
City of Rochester Contact Information
Emergency: 911
Fire Business Telephone: 603-335-7545
Fire Fax: 603-332-9711
Police Business Telephone: 603.330.7127
Police Fax: 603.330.7159
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