Prepare for Hurricane Isaac

Pledge to follow these recommended guidelines for keeping your family and community safe and more resilient in the face of Hurricane Isaac. If a hurricane is likely in your area, you should: 1. Listen to the radio or TV for information. 2. Secure your home, close storm shutters and secure outdoor objects or bring them indoors. 3. Turn off utilities if instructed to do so. Otherwise, turn the refrigerator thermostat to its coldest setting and keep its doors closed. 4. Turn off propane tanks 5. Avoid using the phone, except for serious emergencies. 6. Moor your boat if time permits. 7. Ensure a supply of water for sanitary purpose such as cleaning and flushing toilets. Fill the bathtub and other larger containers with water. You should evacuate under the following conditions: 1. If you are directed by local authorities to do so - follow their instructions. 2. If you live in a mobile home or temporary structure – such shelter are particularly hazardous during hurricane no matter how well fastened to the ground. 3. If you live in a high-rise building – hurricane winds are stronger at higher elevations. 4. If you live on the coast, on a floodplain, near a river, or on an island waterway. If you are unable to evacuate, be sure to follow these guidelines during the hurricane: 1. Stay indoors and away from windows and glass doors. 2. Close all interior doors – secure and brace external doors. 3. Keep curtains and blinds closed. Do not be fooled if there is a lull; it could be the eye of the storm – winds will pick up again. 4. Take refuge in a small interior room, closet or hallway on the lowest level. 5. Lie on the floor under a table or another sturdy object. 6. Avoid elevators. -- Check out the Red Cross' Emergency Preparedness and Response guide for more helpful tips on hurricane readiness! You can also download the free Red Cross Hurricane app for mobile phones.