How to Assist in the Aftermath of a Hurricane
- 1). Do not rush into a hurricane zone. Even if the area in question did not have as disastrous a landfall as was expected, there may be flood waters from the storm surge, downed power lines, storm debris, or other conditions hazardous to life and limb. Area safety forces are likely stretched to the limit, and do not want to spend their time coming to the rescue of well-meaning but ill-informed volunteers. Chances are good that these professionals have had extremely agonizing decisions to make in past storms, and your situation is only going to add to their burden.
- 2). Pay very close attention to the radio. During a hurricane and the associated tornadoes it often spawns, the radio will sometimes be your only advance warning of life-threatening situations. Because the tornadoes are embedded in sheet-style rainstorms, it is often not possible to see them, but you will hear "snow" on the radio as they approach your listening area. If you hear that, even without an emergency announcement, take cover.
- 3). Do not sight-see! Emergency workers are already under great stress, Do not add to that by putting yourself in danger just to satisfy your curiosity. Stay inside your home, away from windows. Listen to the radio or watch coverage on your television, computer or mobile device. You will be far better informed, and safety forces will be able to concentrate their efforts on the most vital areas. Obey all curfews.
- 4). Give blood. Injuries are most likely during the aftermath of a storm and subsequent cleanup than during the storm itself. Blood supplies are severely strained over holiday weekends as it is. Couple that with more than a dozen tornadoes in 6 hours, and you have a huge need for blood and blood products like plasma.
- 5). Do not send bulk aid directly to the affected area. The logistics of finding storage and distribution for your items will divert needed people from other, more essential services. Send your aid to a storm evacuation shelter just outside the hurricane zone.
- 6). Do not send clothing or bulky items in the first few days after a hurricane. Most areas will have suffered flooding or other rain-related damage. There will be other far more vital supplies, such as food and clean water, that will need storage and distribution. Instead, send chainsaws, generators, hip waders, bottled water, canned meat and fruit, and first-aid supplies.
- 7). Unless you are an electrician, carpenter, emergency-services person or health worker, do not come into a hurricane zone until area officials say it is safe to do so. If you do wish to offer your assistance, contact local law enforcement, safety services or hospitals to make your offer. Do not take it personally if you are told "no." Instead, go to a shelter just outside the affected area and offer your services there.
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