Hurricane & Storm Prep Guide (Made Simple)
1. Protect Your Home
Tie down or bring in outdoor things like chairs, plants, and buckets.
Check your roof for loose zinc or tiles.
Board up or use shutters on windows and doors.
Clear up your yard and secure gates or fences.
Tip: Don’t wait for the wind — tie down zinc and tanks as soon as a storm watch is issued.
2. Prevent Flooding
Clean drains, gutters, and downpipes.
Move cars and valuables from flood-prone spots.
Watch for cracks in walls or slopes.
Tip: Keep a shovel nearby and raise furniture or appliances on blocks if flood water might rise.
3. Power & Utilities
Charge all phones and power banks.
Test generators and keep fuel safely outside.
Turn off electricity if told to.
Tip: Never run generators indoors and unplug electronics during lightning or surges.
4. Emergency Supplies
Pack a waterproof “Go Bag” with IDs, passports, land titles, and insurance papers.
Store water, tinned food, flashlight, first aid kit, and extra batteries.
Tip: Keep documents in plastic bags and label each family member’s bag.
5. Family Plan
Choose the safest room in your house (no windows).
Know where your shelter and evacuation route are.
Check on elderly relatives and neighbours.
Tip: Have one family meeting before the storm and share one emergency contact number.
6. During the Storm
Stay inside and away from windows.
Listen to the Met Service or ODPEM for updates.
Avoid flooded roads and use flashlights, not candles.
Tip: Don’t go outside to “see what’s happening.” Watch for rising water at night.
7. After the Storm
Wait for the official “All Clear.”
Avoid fallen wires and trees.
Take photos of any damage.
Boil or disinfect water before drinking.
Tip: Wear boots and gloves when cleaning up and take pictures for insurance claims.
Important Reminders
Start preparing when a Tropical Storm Watch is issued — not when it starts raining.
Keep tuned to ODPEM, Jamaica Met Service, and the National Hurricane Center (NHC).
Save key numbers for JPS, NWC, Fire Brigade, and your Parish Council.
Keep a bit of cash — ATMs might not work.
Final Advice
Act early. Even a tropical storm can cause flooding, landslides, and roof damage. Protect your home, check on your community, and stay alert until all warnings are lifted.
Disclaimer
This guide gives general information only. Always follow official advice from ODPEM, NHC, and the Jamaica Met Service. Weather can change fast — stay safe and stay informed.