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16 Things to do during a hurricane to keep safe

Making sure you know what to do in a hurricane can mean the difference between life and death. Here's a list to help keep you as safe as possible.

GREENSBORO, N.C. — Every minute counts before, during, and after a hurricane.

That's why WFMY News 2 wants to make sure you know what to do now to prepare your home and keep your family safe, in the event of a hurricane.

Even if you don't live in coastal areas, hurricanes can still move inland bringing with it destruction and flooding.

 Ready.gov has more information about what to do in the hours leading up to and during a hurricane. 

Safety Tip During a Hurricane:

  1. Listen to the radio or television for information.
  2. Secure your home, close storm shutters and secure outdoor objects or bring them indoors.
  3. Turn off gas, water and power if you are told to do so. Otherwise, turn the refrigerator thermostat to its coldest setting and keep its doors closed.
  4. Turn off propane tanks.
  5. Try not to use the phone, except for serious emergencies.
  6. Moor your boat if time permits.
  7. Make sure you have a supply of water for sanitary purposes such as cleaning and flushing toilets. Fill the bathtub and other larger containers with water.
  8. Find out how to keep food safe during and after an emergency.
  9. Leave your home or area if you are: Told to do so by local police.
  10. In a mobile home or temporary structure. Such structures are particularly dangerous during high wind events no matter how well fastened to the ground. In a high-rise building because hurricane winds are stronger at higher levels. On the coast, in a floodplain, near a river or on an island waterway.
  11. If you are unable to leave, go to the safest room in your house.
  12. Stay indoors during the hurricane. Stay away from windows and glass doors.
  13. Close all interior doors – secure and brace external doors.
  14. Keep curtains and blinds closed.
  15. Do not be fooled if there is a lull; it could be the eye of the storm – winds will pick up again.
  16. Take shelter in a small interior room, closet or hallway on the lowest level.

RELATED: 15 Things to do before a hurricane hits

RELATED: 10 Things to do when evacuating for a hurricane

RELATED: North Carolina Hurricane Guide | Vital safety and emergency information

RELATED: 20 items you should have in a hurricane survival emergency kit

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