Hurricane Preparedness Guide for Alabama Gulf Coast New Residents

Welcome to the beautiful Gulf Coast of South Alabama! While the coastal lifestyle offers plenty of sunshine, lots of fun activities, and scenic views, it's essential to be prepared for hurricane season, which runs from June through November. If you're new to the area, here are some key steps to ensure you are ready for any storms that may come our way.

1. Understand Your Risk The Gulf Coast is prone to storms. Familiarize yourself with the different categories of hurricanes and what they mean for wind speeds, storm surge, and potential damage. Pay attention to local weather alerts and know the difference between a Hurricane Watch and a Hurricane Warning.

2. Create an Emergency Kit Your emergency kit should be stocked with essentials to sustain your family for at least 72 hours. This includes:

• Non-perishable food and water (one gallon per person per day)
• Battery-powered or hand-crank radio
• Flashlights and extra batteries
• First-aid supplies
• Prescription medications
• Important documents in a waterproof container
• Cash (ATMs may be down)
• Portable phone chargers
• Personal hygiene items
• Pet supplies if you have pets

3. Know Your Evacuation Routes Plan ahead by knowing the evacuation routes from your area. The Alabama Department of Transportation provides maps and information on designated routes. In case of an evacuation order, leave early to avoid traffic congestion and ensure you reach a safe location in time. Have a destination in mind, whether it's a friend’s house inland, a hotel, or a designated shelter.

4. Secure Your Home Protecting your home is crucial. Install storm shutters or board up windows, secure loose outdoor items, and reinforce your garage door. If you live in a flood-prone area, consider investing in sandbags or flood barriers. Trimming trees and removing dead branches can also minimize damage from high winds.

5. Stay Informed Keep up with the latest weather updates through local news, the National Hurricane Center, or reliable weather apps. Sign up for community alerts from local emergency management agencies to receive real-time information about evacuation orders, road closures, and shelter locations.

6. Have a Family Communication Plan Make sure every family member knows what to do and where to go during a hurricane. Designate a meeting place in case you get separated and choose an out-of-town contact person who everyone can check in with. Ensure all phones are charged and have backup batteries or power banks ready.

7. Review Your Insurance Coverage Check your homeowner's insurance policy to ensure you have adequate coverage for wind and flood damage. Standard policies typically do not cover flooding, so consider purchasing a separate flood insurance policy, especially if you live in a high-risk area.

By taking these steps, you'll be well-prepared to face hurricane season with confidence. Remember, it's always better to over-prepare than to be caught off guard. Stay safe and enjoy the unique beauty that life on the Gulf Coast has to offer!