6 Common Myths About Hurricane Preparation

Hurricane preparation may be stressful, and chaotic times, as a massive storm is approaching. Citizens who are informed that a massive storm is coming to their town may become frantic, rushing to stock up on water, food, and supplies. Experts recommend implementing an emergency evacuation route, to have a safe escape as the storm is approaching. Because hurricanes may create havoc throughout different cities, there are various safety tips to follow to prevent injury. Additionally, there are common myths about hurricane preparation that should be ignored. The following 6 myths are commonly stated, however inaccurate, and should not be followed. 

 

Taping Up Windows

A common myth that has been around for decades encourages homeowners to tape up windows, in order to prevent the windows from shattering. Contrary to this idea, taping windows can create more dangerous, and larger shards of glass when the window breaks. Instead of duct taping windows, seal windows with sturdy plywood or shutters, to protect your windows from flying debris. 

 

Hotels are Required to House Pets and Service Animals

A common hurricane myth is that there are laws that require hotels to accept pets, during emergency mandatory evacuations. This is a false concept. In Florida, there are no laws imposing obligations on a public lodging establishment to accept pets. The Pets Evacuation and Transportation Standards Act holds publicly-operated disaster shelters for the public can accommodate pets. This requirement is a condition for federal reimbursement eligibility to operate the shelter, but does not extend to hotels. When preparing for a hurricane, ensure your pet has a crate, and an adequate amount of food for 3-7 days. 

 

The Dishwasher is a Safe Place to Keep Valuables

The idea that the dishwasher is a safe place to keep valuables from water is entirely false. In the event that your home becomes flooded, your dishwasher will also become filled with water. Low-lying and flood-prone areas are the most likely to become entirely flooded, dishwashers included. In addition to flooding, severe winds may tear the interior of your home, including kitchen appliances. Another danger is that your dishwasher may turn on during a storm, which would ruin your valuables. The best way to store valuables is in plastic bags on high shelves, in the event of flooding. 

 

Lean Against a Window or Door

Another common hurricane myth is that you can prevent a window or door from blowing inward, if you lean against it. This is one of the most dangerous myths, as you are putting yourself at high risk for injury, if you remain in front of windows or doors. Stay away from windows and glass doors during the storm. Close and lock all interior doors, and external doors, before the storm arrives. The safest place in your home during the storm is a small interior room, a closet, or hallway on the lowest level. If possible, chose a room that has no glass windows.

 

Open Windows to Alleviate Pressure

Some have falsely stated that cracking windows open will ease the amount of air pressure during a storm. This false idea is based on the misconception that pressure can build up in your home, during a storm, to cause complete structural failure. In reality, opening windows introduces new risks of flying objects and debris to enter your home, while the storm is intense. Keep all windows closed, locked, and shuttered during a hurricane.

 

A Hurricane Won’t Impact Those Who Don’t Live on the Coast

A common false belief is that a hurricane won’t impact people who do not live on the coastline. In reality, hurricanes move far inland before they weaken. Additionally, hurricanes have huge impacts that affect areas beyond strictly coastal areas. The large amounts of rain and heavy winds impact those who do not live on water, making rivers and streams more full than regularly. Flooding rivers and streams move inward, miles away from the coast. If a hurricane is heading to your area, prepare for the worst, because it is better to be safe than sorry.

 

Hurricanes are scary, stressful, chaotic times for people as they prepare. Experts recommend to board up windows, buy food to last for a few days, buy supplies, and extra batteries in the event that electricity is lost. Create an emergency evacuation route, and locate local shelters near your home. Common myths that should be ignored include taping up windows, hotels are required to house pets, the dishwasher can store valuables, lean against doors or windows, open windows to alleviate pressure, and hurricanes only impact people living on the coast. To fully prepare for a hurricane, research useful tips that experts support and encourage. In the unfortunate circumstance that you become injured before, during, or after a hurricane, contact a personal injury attorney. 

 

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