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.

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 flood 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 5/8” 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 / factory mu- tual 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.

    Emergency Preparedness information is available at the following websites:

    • NH Bureau of Emergency Management, http://www.nh.gov/safety/divisions/bem/ index.htmlNational Weather Service, http://www.nws.noaa.gov/alerts/nh.html

    • National Hurricane Center, http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/index.shtml • Federal Emergency Management Agency, http://www.fema.gov/

    Contact your Primex3 Risk Management Consultant at 1-800-698-2364 if you have questions or need assistance in your storm preparedness planning.