15 Continued from previous page That could help you to avoid the “mad rush” to gas stations during a storm alert. One way to do this is to fill the vehicle and then top it up afterwards when the fuel level drops down to half-tank of fuel. Have a plan for protection of your vehicles as best you can if a storm strikes. Give priority to preventing damage to the front wind screen. This might mean parking vehicles differently when a storm threatens. Remember vehicles can be washed away in floods in flood-prone areas during hurricanes. Prepare the entire family intellectually, psychologically and emotionally for what all of you might face during the passage of a major hurricane. Watch TV shows and videos in advance, listen to experts when they speak and listen to accounts of survivors. Speak with contacts who have survived hurricane events in other countries. Keep as much cash as you can manage to hold in a secure location in your home in a place that should be safe from damage. Remember you might not have normal banking services for a while if your country is hit by a major hurricane. Do not forget where you have put the cash. Cleaning up after a hurricane Can be a challenge. (Photos by Fr. Bowe) Have a clear plan for aged, infirmed, and the differently-abled in your family. Be clear as to what is to be done by whom when a hurricane threatens. Make sure enthusiasm is matched by knowledge, competence and commitment. Keep a large supply of “jumbo” or lawn-size garbage bags of the thickest gauge you can get. If your roof is damaged you might have to put many household and personal items in garbage bags to protect them from the elements until your roof can be repaired and that could take a while because of challenges with availability of both workmen and materials Keep a supply of large freezer bags in addition Continues on next page
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