StormTeam 3 • WSAV.COM StormTeam 3 • WSAV.COM WSAV.COM

During & After A Storm
During A Storm
• Remain Calm. Continue to watch WSAV
Storm Team 3 for weather coverage and
updates.
• Stay indoors until the storm has passed.
The eye of the storm produces calm
weather conditions. But this calm is deceptive, bordered as it is by maximum force
winds and torrential rains. After the eye
passes, hurricane conditions will reoccur
and will likely be more violent than the
weather conditions in front of the eye. Do
not go outside until you get the All Clear
that the storm has completely passed.
• Turn off circuit breakers before the power
goes out. Leave one circuit breaker on
with a lamp so you will know when power
is resumed.
• Use flashlights, not candles or kerosene
lamps, during the storm.
• Stay in your safe room even if you hear
breaking glass. Do not expose yourself to
the hurricane’s winds.
• Place animals in carriers.
• If your house starts to break apart, cover
yourself with a mattress. If your safe
room is a bathroom with a bathtub, get in
the tub under a mattress.
• Use the phone for urgent calls only. Don’t
use the phone if you hear thunder.
• If you’re in a very tall building, avoid the
top floors, as wind speeds are stronger
the higher you go. Go to a safe room. Use
extreme caution.
After A Storm
• If your house is damaged, get out until it
is inspected by officials.
• Find the fire extinguisher before turning
on the power.
• Stay away from all downed power lines
and nearby water puddles. Report downed
or sparking power lines and broken gas or
water mains. Do not pile debris near
power lines.
• Avoid driving because of debris and road
blockage.
• Call your out-of-town emergency contact
and communicate that you’re all right.
• Do not drink the tap water until officials
have announced it is safe.
• If filing a claim, notify your insurance
agent as soon as possible of an address
and phone number where you can be
reached.
• Inspect your home for damage. Take photos of damaged areas and possessions.
• Read the safety manual for your chain
saw. Wear at least the following: a helmet
system; cotton or
leather gloves;
chain saw protective chaps or pants
and protective work
boots with steel
toes. Carry the saw
with the engine off.
Cut fallen tree
limbs into pieces 4
feet or less. Place
garbage in tied
heavy plastic bags
and limit weight to 50 lbs.
Power Outage Safety
• Only use a flashlight for emergency
lighting, not candles.
• Turn off electrical equipment you were
using when the power went out.
• Avoid opening the refrigerator and freezer.
• If you use a computer, keep files and
operating systems backed up regularly.
Consider buying extra batteries and a
power converter if you use a laptop computer.
• Get a high quality surge protector for all
of your computer equipment.
• If you have an electric garage door
opener, find out where the manual-release
lever is located.
• Have a standard or cellular telephone that
does not require electricity.
Generator Safety
• Buy a generator that is listed with the
Underwriter’s Laboratory (UL) or Factory
Mutual (FM).
• If you use a generator, connect the equipment you want to power directly to the
outlets on the generator. Do not connect a
generator to a home’s electrical system.
• Do not use indoors, including inside a
garage.
• Be sure to let the generator cool down
before refueling.
Water Safety
To treat water, first filter the water using
a piece of cloth or coffee filter to remove
solid particles.
1. Bring it to a rolling boil for one full
minute and cool 30 minutes.
2. Add 12 drops of 2 percent tincture of
iodine per gallon, or
3. Add 16 drops of unscented liquid chlorine
bleach per gallon of water. Let stand 30
minutes, or
4. Use water purification tablets.
Make Corded Phone Part of Your Hurricane Plan
Hargray Communications
When storms arrive, will
your family be prepared to
communicate with E911,
safety officials, and loved
ones? A hurricane, tropical
storm, or even an electrical
storm and heavy wind can
easily disrupt electrical service, and therefore your cordless telephone service.
Since power outages can
also occur for reasons other
than severe weather, you
should always have at least
2
one corded phone in your
home that is not dependent
on electricity to operate.
This could be your only
method of communication
during and after a storm. In
the case of a major hurricane, your area could be
without electrical power for
days or weeks.
Without electricity, you
cannot rely on the following:
VOIP: A popular trend is to
have home phone service
The 2006 Hurricane Season was a nonevent for the Coastal Empire and Low Country.
While the 2005 Hurricane Season made
weather history with 26 named storms in the
Atlantic Basin, only one 2006 tropical storm,
Alberto, had any impact on our area. While the
Atlantic Basin had its share of activity, all of
the major hurricanes missed us by a mile. This
might leave people with a false sense of security, and that’s dangerous. Weather and
Emergency Management experts know it’s just
a matter of time until a major hurricane hits
the Georgia and South Carolina coast. Now is
the time to put your hurricane preparedness
plans into place, and News 3 On Your Side is
ready to help.
WSAV is the only station with a team of
three full-time certified meteorologists. Our
team of weather scientists is an important tool
in your arsenal of protection against the worst
that Mother Nature brings. And News 3’s commitment to bringing you the best coverage
transcends our weather department. When
severe weather strikes, our entire station
becomes part of Storm Team 3.
News 3 Anchor, Russ Riesinger: “Seldom is
there a time when our jobs as broadcasters
become more significant than when a hurricane
is approaching. Making sure your family is prepared and up-to-date in a weather emergency
is one of the most important ways that we are
On Your Side.”
News 3 Anchor, Tina Tyus-Shaw: “It’s critical for everyone to be prepared and follow official emergency warnings. When a tropical
storm or hurricane threatens the Coastal
Empire and Low Country, you can be sure
we’re On Your Side, with around-the-clock
weather and information reports.”
News 3 Chief Meteorologist Ben Smith:
“It’s my passion to help you get the latest,
most accurate information for your family’s
protection. Storm Team 3 and all of WSAV
share a commitment to keeping you and your
loved ones out of harm’s way. We’re On Your
Side with this commitment all year long.”
over the internet. Voice Over
Internet Protocol (VOIP)
phone service requires a computer and Internet service,
which requires electrical
power. You will not have
VOIP phone service during a
power outage.
Cordless phones require
electricity for the receiver,
which will not work during a
power outage, rendering your
cordless phone useless.
Wireless or cellular phones.
Cellular towers and antennas
can suffer extensive storm
damage, which can cause
StormTeam 3 • WSAV.COM
considerable disruption. Even
with tropical storm winds,
antennas can be blown off
alignment, resulting in poor
coverage. Also, you cannot
recharge your cell phone battery without electricity.
Here’s an important tip:
Post emergency telephone
numbers by your corded
phone, and make sure your
children know how and when
to call 911.
For safety’s sake, make a
corded phone part of your
emergency and hurricane
plan.
Your Family Plan
Update your Family Plan every year before hurricane season.
Everyone should have a role in the plan, including children.
List the following vital information now for your Family Plan.
1. Know your home’s vulnerability to storm
surge, flooding and wind.
2. Know where you will evacuate (i.e.
shelter, friend, relative, hotel).
3. Locate a safe room or safest area(s) in
your home for each hurricane hazard.
This is usually an interior room on the
lowest floor, with no windows or exterior
walls, such as closets, bathrooms and
utility rooms, which will give you a second level of protection from airborne
debris.
4. Determine escape routes from your
home and places to meet.
5. Have an out-of-state friend as a family
contact so all your family members have
a single point of contact.
6. Make a plan for what to do with your
pets if you stay or need to evacuate.
7. Inquire if your employer provides special shelter for your family.
8. If a family member requires life-support
equipment, make special plans for
them.
• Register with your county office of
Emergency Management for a
Special Care shelter.
• Bring supplies, medication and special equipment for three days. Ask
your medical supply vendor about
any services they provide in the
event of a hurricane and/or power
failure.
9. Plans to safeguard your home: Did you
purchase or check shutters? If not, did
you purchase and store half inch or
thicker plywood?
10. Put valuables, photos and copies of
important papers in waterproof bags
and store in safe place (i.e. safe
deposit box). Include photos of interior and exterior of your home, driver’s license, list of medications,
important names, addresses, phone
numbers (doctors, lawyers, insurance
agents, family and friends), account
numbers and policy numbers (health,
flood, auto and home).
11. Post emergency telephone numbers by
your phones and make sure your children know how and when to call 911.
12. Check your insurance coverage. Flood
damage is not usually covered by
homeowner’s insurance.
13. Stock your Must-Have Supplies.
14. Use an NOAA weather radio and
change the batteries every six months.
Keeping Your Family Safe in the Storm
evacuate due to a hurricane, you’ll need to
make some other arrangements.
Fill your gas tank within 24 hours after a
hurricane watch is issued.
Prepare emergency kit for your car
complete with a first aid kit, food, water,
booster cables, fire extinguisher and maps.
Turn off your gas, electricity and water
before leaving.
Secure any outside items, such as grills and
lawn furniture.
Make arrangements for pets, since most
shelters won’t accept them.
Cover windows and doors with plywood or
boards.
standing water, drain them so mosquitoes
cannot lay more eggs there. Also be aware
of snakes in piles of debris or in high standing water. If you spot one, remember what it
looks like, just in case you or someone in
your home is bitten. You may have to identify it to medical personnel. If you are bitten, keep the bite clean and bandaged and
seek medical treatment immediately.
Some of the most serious damage from
storms comes from mold infestation. Mold
can cause minor health problems, like
asthma attacks and nasal and sinus congestion or more severe reactions on some people. Water intrusion can also lead to the
release of toxic substances from wet surfaces. If you encounter mold or standing
water inside your home, use gloves and
boots before attempting to clean up.
You may also want to photograph damage
for insurance claims. Once you begin
cleanup, The National Center for Health
Housing recommends you first remove all
standing water. Then throw away all wet
material including furniture and carpeting.
If possible, hire a professional to treat the
most severe cases. For less severe mold infestation, use detergents on any washable surface. If that doesn’t work, dilute bleach by
using one cup to every nine cups of water.
Once electricity is restored, use fans
and dehumidifiers to completely dry out
your home. Mold can also grow in hidden
spots like crawl-spaces, air ducts and wall
cavities.
WSAV Health Reporter Karen Schradin
What do hurricanes, pandemic flu and
bioterrorism have in common? The answer is
preparedness. No matter what type of emergency we may experience, you can help
your family now by being prepared. Each of
these types of emergencies require the same
types of preparation. Best of all, you can take
most of these steps now before an emergency
arises.
As hurricane season approaches, you can
start by stocking up on essential supplies.
Locate and secure important papers, including
medical information and insurance
policies, wills, etc.
Register any friends and family who have
special needs by calling your local health
department.
Purchase a three-to-five-day supply of water and
non-perishable food for each of your family
Buy vitamins to ensure your family is
getting adequate nutrition.
Re-stock your first aid kit.
Replace batteries in flashlights and radio.
Stock up with at least one month supply of
all prescription medicine.
Buy extra hygiene supplies like soap and
toothpaste.
Purchase extra baby supplies like formula
and diapers.
These supplies can help you stay home
and out of harms way for at least one week
following an emergency. If you have to
If a hurricane, earthquake or other emergency situation threatens our water supply,
boiling is the safest way to purify it before
drinking. According to the Red Cross, water
must be boiled for three to five minutes and
then cooled. If you have enough notice, fill
household bathtubs with tap water before
trouble strikes.
If you return home after an evacuation,
there are many precautions you should take.
If you find dead rodents in or around your
home, do not touch them. Instead, remove
them by using a shovel. Be sure all garbage
is removed from your home, and store all
food supplies in airtight containers.
Mosquitoes often carry disease, so use
insect repellent containing DEET. Wear
long pants, socks and long sleeves while
cleaning up outdoors. If you find sources of
WSAV.COM • StormTeam 3
3
Protecting Your Property
A good homeowner’s (or renter’s) insurance policy is
critical to recovering from a severe hurricane. Discuss
the following with your insurance representative:
• Value of land and structure. Ask about policy and exclusions.
• Value of home contents. Prepare a complete home inventory.
Take photos or videotape when possible. Store the information at
the office or in a safe deposit box.
• Ask if your policy covers the value (replacement cost less depreciation) or replacement cost.
• Is it worth picking up riders on special items?
• Do you need flood insurance? Contact your local emergency
management office, building department or floodplain
management office for information. You can also visit your town or
city hall department that has access to flood maps or order a map
for a fee from FEMA at 1-800-358-9616 or www.fema.gov.
Different areas have different flood risks. The zone you live in
will determine if you need flood insurance and if so, the related
cost.
• Do you require a windstorm insurance policy?
After a Hurricane
• Stay tuned to WSAV Storm Team 3 for updates and instructions.
Insuring Your Home
for Hurricane Damage
WSAV News 3 Consumer Reporter
Joanne Merrigan
Hurricane season poses an annual threat
to homeowners in the Coastal Empire and
Low Country. For peace of mind, check
with your insurance agent now to understand what is and is not covered under a
standard homeowner’s insurance policy.
What is covered is fire, lightning, falling
trees wind and hail damage. When it
comes to destruction caused by high winds,
a standard policy will likely cover such
things as broken windows or the roof being
blown off.
What is not covered is flooding, i.e.
damage that’s caused by rising water. For
that protection, you need a separate policy
through the National Flood Insurance
4
• Take photos of damaged areas and possessions.
• Make temporary repairs to protect your home or property from
further damage. Cover holes in the roof or walls with plywood
and use heavy-duty plastic to cover broken windows.
• If you can’t make repairs yourself, check the contractor’s references with your insurance agent, chamber of commerce or
Better Business Bureau.
• Get an estimate first and discuss payment terms. Be sure to
receive a receipt for the labor and materials.
• Keep records, bills and paid invoices until your insurance
representative visits.
• If damage is of sufficient magnitude and severity, federal disaster
assistance may be available.
Filing a Claim
• Notify your agent as soon as possible. Give an address and
phone number where you can be reached if you have vacated
your home.
• Present your photos and inventory to help your adjuster assess
the damage.
• Be patient. Cases are expedited based on severity or hardship.
Program. Although it’s a federal program,
your local agent often serves as the “conduit” to buy this coverage. Typically, it
takes 30 days for a flood insurance policy
to go into effect, which is why planning
ahead is essential.
If you live in a flood zone, flood insurance may not necessarily be required, but
may be a good idea. Depending upon the
area, you may be eligible for coverage
under the “preferred flood zone” plan.
This package offers the best rate and lowest deductible but coverage is pre-set for
categories such as dwelling or contents.
Check with your agent to see if you qualify for this preferred rate. For those that
live in a higher risk zone, flood insurance
will be more expensive, but you can alter
your coverage in various categories to suit
your individual needs. (If you are a renter
or own a condominium, check with an
insurance agent on how to best protect
your personal belongings.)
Agents suggest that you take pictures of
the inside and outside of your house and
create an inventory of everything
inside.This list helps insurance adjusters
better assess the value of your losses. But
remember, if you need to evacuate, take
the records and photographs with you.
Some even suggest that you create the
record and store it elsewhere, such as a
safety deposit box. However, because
there’s always concern that your records
might not be safe anywhere you might store
them in a hurricane area, another idea is to
make copies and send them to relatives in
other parts of the country. That way, you
can be assured that your records will be
available even if your home and public
buildings in your area are destroyed.
StormTeam 3 • WSAV.COM
Our Technology
WSAV is proud of Storm Team 3 … the most experienced team
of meteorologists in the Coastal Empire and Low Country. Meet the
dedicated team who will take you through any severe Storm
Mother Nature brings in 2007, and stay On Your Side every day!
Ben Smith
WSAV Storm Team 3 Chief Meteorologist Ben Smith knows
accurate weather forecasting is On Your Side. Ben is a native of
Fredericksburg, Va., and attended school at East Carolina
University. While in North Carolina he tackled several hurricanes
including Bertha, Dennis, Fran and Floyd. Ben’s commitment to the
community has him practically living at the WSAV studios during
hurricane season to provide fast, accurate information to WSAV
viewers. He has the Seal of Approval from the American
Meteorological Society and the National Weather Association.
Whatever 2007 brings, Ben’s commitment will continue.
Lee Haywood
Waking you up each weekday morning with accurate weather
forecasts is WSAV’s Coastal Sunrise Meteorologist Lee Haywood. A
6-year veteran of WSAV, Lee enjoys the challenges of forecasting in
the Coastal Empire and Low Country. Lee is a graduate of the
University of North Carolina/Asheville with a B.S. in Atmospheric
Sciences. He is also a part-time faculty member at Armstrong Atlantic
State University, where he teaches Meteorology. Lee holds the television Seal of Approval from the National Weather Association.
It’s hurricane season, and from June through November, timing
and accuracy are everything. WSAV Storm Team 3 is better
equipped to keep you and your family up-to-date and safe
when hurricanes threaten. Our TrueView technology gives the
experienced WSAV Storm Team 3 meteorologists the power of
precise identification and severe weather tracking, for the most
accurate forecasts throughout the Coastal Empire and Low Country.
At the heart of WSAV Storm Team 3’s TrueView technology
is live Titan Radar. This powerful radar provides early-warning
identification of weather systems. It allows WSAV Storm Team 3
meteorologists to determine the power, speed and direction of
storms more quickly than ever before. Coupled with our Curious
Mapping system, WSAV Storm Team 3 meteorologists can pinpoint
storms threatening large and small neighborhoods, show it to you
in the most clear and understandable graphic presentation, and
give you as much time as possible to take action to safeguard yourself and your family.
During hurricane season, trust the WSAV Storm Team 3
combination of experience, knowledge and technology to best
serve the severe weather needs of all the Coastal Empire and Low
Country.
Mike Fuori
WSAV’s Weekend Meteorologist Mike Fuori is the guy you
look to at the end of a long work week. He’s earned the Seal
of Approval from the American Meteorological Society and
was recently awarded their newest seal: Certified Broadcast
Meteorologist. Mike grew up in Roswell, Ga., and is a graduate
of Florida State University. Weather is always a favorite topic at
the Fuori house: Mike’s wife, Ashley, is a meteorologist, too.
Hurricane Evacuation Routes
From Chatham County and the city of Savannah
1) Take US 80 away from the coast toward Statesboro and points
northwest or;
2) Take SR 204 West to US 280 toward Claxton and points west or;
3) Take SR 21 North across I-95 and northward toward Sylvania or;
4) Take I-16 West toward Macon.
From Bryan County
Take SR 144 West, cross I-95 and continue west toward
Glennville.
From Liberty County
Take US 84 West to SR 196 West. Continue west to US 301
(Glennville).
From Hilton Head Island
Take the William Hilton Parkway (US 278 Business) or the Cross
Island Parkway toll facility (US 278). As these two roads merge, a
third outbound lane will be created by reversing flow on the
inside eastbound lane of US 278. This lane will carry the traffic
from the toll facility. When US 278 reaches I-95, lane assignments will be as follows:
• The right lane on westbound US 278 will exit to I-95 northbound.
• The left lane on US 278 westbound will continue on US 278 to
Hampton and eventually North Augusta.
• The reversed lane will take SC 170 to SC 46 to US 321, then to
SC 3 to SC 125 and onto North Augusta. Should a third lane not
be necessary, both lanes on US 278 will be routed to I-95 with
the right lane to I-95 north, and the left lane continuing on US
278. Access to I-95 southbound is available, but severe congestion may be encountered.
From Beaufort
Evacuees will use the two present northbound lanes on US 21.
These lanes will be turned onto US 17 south to I-95 at Exit 33
(point south) where the left lane will go to I-95 south and the right
lane to I-95 north.
WSAV.COM • StormTeam 3
5
Tracking Chart
How to Use This Tracking Chart
Watch Storm Team 3 or log on to WSAV.com for up-to-theminute storm positions, given in latitude and longitude.
Lines Of Latitude run horizontally and are used to find north/south, or vertical,
positions on your tracking map.
Lines Of Longitude run vertically and are used to find the east/west, or horizontal, positions on your tracking map.
2007 Atlantic Hurricane Names
Andrea
Barry
Chantal
Dean
Erin
Felix
Gabrielle
Humberto
Ingrid
Jerry
Karen
Lorenzo
Melissa
Noel
Olga
Pablo
Rebekah
Sebastien
Tanya
Van
Wendy
The Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Intensity Scale
Category
1
2
3
4
5
6
StormTeam 3 • WSAV.COM
Wind Speed
74–95 mph
96–110 mph
111–130 mph
131–155 mph
155 + mph
Storm Surge
4–5 ft.
6–8 ft.
9–12 ft.
13–18 ft.
Over 18 ft.
WSAV.COM • StormTeam 3
Actual storm surge
values may vary
considerably depending
on coastal configuration,
slope of the ocean floor,
and other factors.
7
Phone Numbers
Liberty County
*Phone numbers are area code 912 unless noted.
Area-wide
Red Cross: 876-3975
Canoochee Electric: 368-2252
Coastal Electric: 884-3311
Water Services: Hinesville 876-3564; Midway 884-3344
Coastal Communications: 369-9000
Liberty Regional Medical Center: 369-9400
Emergency Management Agency: 368-2201
American Red Cross: 651-5300
American Red Cross Disaster Coordinator: 651-5311
BellSouth Help Line: 1-800-448-1110
Emergency Help: 911 (area police, fire and medical)
Georgia Emergency Management Agency: 1-800-879-4362
Federal Emergency Management Agency: 700-220-5200
Department of Agriculture (Livestock): 404-656-3667
National Weather Service: 843-744-0303
Salvation Army: 651-7420
Long County
County Government: 545-2143
City of Ludowici: 545-9611
Chatham County
AGL (natural gas): 1-800-427-5463
Candler Hospital: 818-6000 (general); ER: 819-6037
Emergency Management Agency: 201-4500; hearing impaired 201-4519
Georgia Power: 1-800-390-2834 (outage hotline); 1-800-437-3890
(customer service)
Humane Society: 354-9515
Memorial Health University Medical Center: 350-8000 (general);
ER: 350-8113
Public Works: 652-6840 (county); 651-6565 (Savannah)
St. Joseph’s Hospital: 819-4100 (general); ER: 819-2419
Appling County
County Sheriff: 367-8120
County Manager: 367-8100
McIntosh County
County Commission: 437-6671
City of Darien: 437-6686
Montgomery County
County Offices: 583-2363
City of Mount Vernon: 583-2323
Screven County
County Sheriff: 564-2013
County Health: 564-2182
County Hospital: 564-7426
Tattnall County
Emergency Management Agency: 557-6820
911 Emergency Facility: 557-1911
County Sheriff: 557-6778
Bacon County
City of Alma: 632-5917
Bryan County
Emergency Services North: 653-4018
Emergency Services South: 756-2181
County Sheriff: 653-3800
County Fire Department: North Bryan 653-4772; South Bryan 727-3033
Blichton Fire Department: 858-2316
County Health Department: 653-4331
Evans Memorial Hospital: 739-2611
Liberty Regional Medical Center: 369-9400
Police: Richmond Hill 756-5645; Pembroke 653-4414
Georgia Power Company (Claxton): 1-888-660-58890
Pembroke Telephone: 653-4389
Coastal Communications: 369-9000
Toombs County
County Government: 526-3311
City of Lyons: 526-6318
Vidalia Police Department: 537-4123
Vidalia Fire Department: 537-4018
Wayne County
City of Jesup: 427-5900
City of Odum: 586-2211
City of Screven: 579-2211
Beaufort County, S.C.
Red Cross: 843-757-7437
County Emergency Management Agency: 843-470-3100
Beaufort Memorial Hospital: (Toll Free) 1-877-532-6472;
843-522-5200
County Animal Shelter: 843-846-3904
Low Country Health Department: 843-525-7603
Hilton Head Regional Medical Center: 843-681-6122
Palmetto Electric: 800-922-5551
South Carolina Electric & Gas: 800-251-7234
Bulloch County
EMS Rescue: 764-6188
Public Safety: 489-1661
Candler County
Metter Fire Department: 685-2384
Metter Police Department: 685-2415
Public Works: 685-2527
Effingham County
Hampton County, S.C.
Sheriff’s Department (Non-Emergency): 754-3449
City of Guyton: 772-3353
City of Springfield: 754-6666
City of Rincon: 826-5745
Public Works: 754-2141
County EMS: 803-943-7523
County Sheriff: 803-943-7575
County Fire Department: 803-943-7534
Palmetto Electric: 800-922-5551
South Carolina Electric & Gas: 800-251-7234
Evans County
Jasper County, S.C.
County Emergency Management Agency: 843-726-7607
County Animal Shelter: 843-726-7799
County Public Works: 843-726-7740
Palmetto Electric: 800-922-5551
South Carolina Electric & Gas: 800-251-7234
SC Department of Social Services: 843-470-4600
Coastal Carolina Medical Center,
Hardeeville: 843-784-8000
Evans Memorial Hospital: 739-2611
County EMS: 739-1514
County Fire Department: 739-3111
Red Cross: 739-7632
Jeff Davis County
County EMS: 375-6628
County Sheriff: 375-6600
Must-Have Supplies
Drinking
Water (at least 7 gallons per
person)
Manual Can Opener
First Aid Kit
Battery-operated TV, Radio and Clock
Waterproof Matches/Butane Lighter
Spare Batteries and Flashlights
Toilet Paper
Diapers and Wipes
Baby Food and/or Formula
Books, Magazines and
Toys
Cash (ATMs may not
work after the storm)
Plastic Sheeting/Tarp
Duct or Masking Tape
Nails and Rope
8
Outdoor Extension Cord
Charcoal
Lumber
Disposable
Tools
and Work Gloves
Plastic Garbage Bags
Insect Repellent and Sunscreen
Rain Gear
Fire Extinguisher
Fuel for Generators and Cars in approved
containers
Cellular Phone
Ice Chest and Ice
Soap and Detergent
Prescription Medicine (2-week supply)
Disinfectant
Unscented Bleach, Tincture of Iodine,
or Water Purification Tablets
Sterno and Propane Gas (for grills)
and Lighter Fluid
Plates, Glasses and Utensils
Camera and Film
Non-Perishable Food
Canned Meats (fish, tuna, ham)
Canned Fruits, Vegetables and Soups
Dried Fruits and Nuts
Cereal, Crackers and Cookies
Coffee, Tea and Powdered Drinks
Packaged Ketchup, Mustard and
Mayonnaise
Peanut Butter and Jelly
Packaged Puddings and Snacks
Dried Foods (spaghetti, rice, etc.)
Powdered, Evaporated or Parmalat
Milk
Pet Food and Medicine
Hurricane
Terminology
Tropical Depression
A tropical system with the maximum sustained surface wind of
33 knots (38 mph) or less.
Tropical depressions can produce
tremendous rainfall amounts.
Tropical Storm
A tropical system in which the
maximum sustained surface wind
ranges from 34 to 63 knots (39 to
73 mph). A tropical storm can
produce a lot of rainfall and
wind; this can cause some beach
erosion and boat damage.
Tropical Storm Watch
An announcement that a tropical
storm or tropical storm conditions
pose a threat to coastal areas generally within 36 hours.
Tropical Storm Warning
A warning that a tropical storm or
tropical storm conditions, including sustained winds of 39 to 73
mph, will affect a specified
coastal area within 24 hours or
less.
Hurricane
A tropical system with maximum
sustained surface wind of 64
knots (74 mph) or greater. A hurricane is the worst and strongest
of all tropical systems.
Hurricane Watch
An announcement that hurricane
conditions pose a possible threat
to coastal areas generally within
36 hours.
Hurricane Warning
A warning that hurricane conditions are expected in a specified
coastal area within 24 hours or
less. High winds and coastal
flooding will develop many hours
before the eye of the storm actually comes ashore.
Hurricane Eye
The calm center of the storm. In
this area, winds are light and the
sky often is only partly covered
by clouds. The period of calm
may only last 10–20 minutes
before the severe weather returns.
Storm Surge
An abnormal rise in sea level
accompanying a hurricane or
other intense storm.
StormTeam 3 • WSAV.COM
Pet Preparation
Taking care of your pet should be part
of your Hurricane Plan.
Consider the following:
• If you plan to evacuate, determine whether
you will board your pet or take it with you
(service animals are the only pets allowed
at Red Cross shelters.)
• If you plan to leave your pet behind, put it
in a pet carrier in an interior closet or bathroom with an ample supply of drinking
water, food, toys and blankets.
• Include pet food, water and any medication in your Hurricane Plan.
• Vaccinate by mid-May, and consider
spaying or neutering.
• A portable pet carrier is a must. Exotic pets
need special containers (not glass) so they
cannot escape.
• Identify your pet by current license and
rabies tags and/or microchipping, tattooing
or freeze branding.
• Store photos of your pet with your important papers.
Shelter For Your Pet
• Bring pet food, bottled water and any
medications (enough for three days).
• Contact boarding facilities early to reserve
a space for your pet. Space is limited, and
standard boarding fees apply.
• Animals must be vaccinated (proof
required). Pets must wear an ID collar
and a leash.
After The Storm
• Use caution outdoors. If your pet is lost or
if you find someone else’s pet, contact
veterinary clinics, boarding facilities, The
Humane Society and Animal Control.
Animal Control may be forced to destroy
some strays after a devastating storm.
Pet-Friendly Hotels
Evacuation due to the threat of a
hurricane is a fact we live with. But
what should you do with your pets?
Even the most thorough evacuation
plan can be derailed if you don’t prepare for pet care beforehand.
Here is a list of pet-friendly hotels
along evacuation routes (with toll free
reservation phone numbers). But, even
with pet-friendly hotels, check before
you book to confirm the details of
their policy.
Best Western: 1-800-780-7234
Days Inn: 1-800-329-7466
La Quinta: 1-866-725-1661
Motel 6: 1-800-466-8356
Red Roof Inn: 1-800-733-7663
Travelodge: 1-800-578-7878
Hurricane Evacuation Planning
WSAV News 3 Community Reporter Paul Rea
During hurricane season, there’s one
main lesson everyone who lives along
the coast should remember: When a hurricane is coming, get out of the way.
Scenes of people stranded on roofs and
stuck in cities without power or supplies
shock us. Many of us wonder how we
will react when it happens here.
Most counties have detailed hurricane evacuation plans, but it depends
on you to know where you are going
and how you plan to get there. You can
check evacuation routes in this guide or
contact your county for specific recommendations.
About 14 hours before the first winds
of a storm reach our shore; the evacuation
order will go out on television and radio.
All four lanes of 1–16 will be going west
all the way to Dublin. You should take
only what you can carry but focus on
water, cash, credit cards, prescriptions and
your most important papers.
If you don’t have transportation of your
own there are a couple of options. First,
arrange, in advance, with a neighbor who
can take you with them when they evacuate. Barring that, get to a bus stop. A plan
is in place for Chatham Area Transit buses
to pick up evacuees and take them to the
StormTeam 3 • WSAV.COM
Savannah Civic Center. School buses will
then take you to safety outside the storm’s
path. Again, in other counties, check now
with your local officials about their plans
to help you evacuate.
If you need special medical attention
and can’t get out of town on your own,
you need to be on the Special Needs
Registry with the Chatham County Health
Department. They will help come up with
a plan to evacuate you, but they can’t help
if they don’t know you are in need. Call
303-1917 for information on the Special
Needs Registry.
Your survival depends on you taking
action, making a plan, and being prepared
to get out when evacuation orders come.
9
Boat Safety
The boating community frequently suffers large losses
when a hurricane comes ashore. Watch WSAV
Storm Team 3 to stay up-to-date on the latest forecasts.
Remove loose items and electronic gear from on and around the
boat.
General Preparation Before Hurricane Season
Keep boat insurance policy up-to-date.
Take photos and keep a written
description of vessel.
Keep vessel in good condition. Check
bilge pump, electronics and marine
hardware, and keep batteries charged.
Boats On Land
Park the trailer close to a building or
in a garage. Attach the boat to the
trailer tongue to a firm spot in the ground. You can partially fill
the boat with water, but do not allow the water to touch the
engine or batteries.
Protect trailer springs from the additional weight by placing
wood blocks between the frame and axle.
Safety Tips for Hurricane
Power Outages
Palmetto Electric Cooperative Inc.
Don’t let weather-related outages leave you
powerless. Follow these electric safety tips.
Before
Have a battery-powered radio on hand.
Listen to local TV or radio stations for upto-date storm information or evacuation
orders.
Plug appliances into surge protectors, or
have a system installed to help safeguard
electronics and appliances from serious
damage, or simply disconnect electronic
equipment to help avoid surges.
During
Avoid using the telephone during a storm.
Electric shock is possible through phone
lines, unless the phone is cordless. Also,
avoid water sources (shower, sink and bath
tub), as lightning can enter a home through
plumbing.
Remember to disconnect sensitive electronic devices to protect them from surges
that can occur during weather-related
outages.
After
Minimize opening freezers and refrigerators.
10
Offshore Boating During Storms
Cancel all boating plans.
Head back to port immediately if a storm is forecasted.
Boats In The Water
If you leave your vessel in a marina, double all lines. Rig
crossing spring lines fore and aft. Attach lines on the highest
pilings possible to allow for storm surge.
It is safer to move vessels into a river or as far inland as possible as opposed to keeping your vessel in a bay.
Check bilge for loose debris that might get caught below the
auto switch. If debris gets caught under the switch, the pump
won’t shut off and will drain your battery.
Fill the vessel’s fuel and water tanks.
Make sure your vessel is as watertight as possible.
Should you need assistance at sea, call the local Coast Guard
as soon as possible.
A fully loaded freezer can keep food
frozen up to 48 hours if the door is not
opened.
Use a quality flashlight, not candles, for
illumination, as there may be a gas leak.
Leave on a single light to alert you when
electric service is restored.
If your neighbor’s power is restored and
yours is still out, check for a blown fuse or
tripped circuit breaker in your home. Be
aware that your neighbor’s home could also
be supplied with electricity from a different
electrical supply circuit.
Stay clear of fallen utility lines and avoid
tree limbs and debris that could hide fallen
lines. The limbs may carry electricity, especially if they are wet.
Do not pile debris near utility poles or
other electric devices after cleaning up
outside.
Report all outages and downed lines
immediately. Only one call per household
is needed.
Generator Safety
Portable generators are helpful in the event of
a temporary power outage, but misuse can
cause serious injury or death. To protect
yourself, your neighbors and utility workers,
please follow these tips when using a backup generator.
Before you use your generator, thoroughly
read and understand all of the manufacturer’s instructions.
Isolate your generator from the utility
power lines and connect appliances
directly to the generator with the appropriate size grounded three conductor electrical
cords. It is recommended that you also turn
off the main breaker inside the breaker
panel at your home.
If you want to connect a generator
directly through your home’s wiring, use
a licensed electrician.
Never refuel a generator while it is
operating.
Provide adequate ventilation and aircooling around the generator to prevent
overheating and the accumulation of toxic
exhaust fumes.
Do not install a generator in the basement,
attached garage or any closed area. The
exhaust gases from the generator contain
carbon monoxide, an invisible, odorless,
poisonous gas.
Maintain your generator engine according
to the maintenance schedule for peak
performance and safety. Regularly test your
generator.
Keep gas fresh. If you do not plan to use
your generator for up to 30 days, use a gas
stabilizer.
StormTeam 3 • WSAV.COM