Prepare For Hurricane Season

The hazards associated with hurricanes and tropical storms include: storm surges, storm tides, heavy rainfall, inland flooding, and high winds. These hazards can cause property damage, widespread loss of power, and flooding both inland and along the coast.

To protect residents from storm surge flooding, it may be necessary to evacuate residents residing in low-lying areas outside the hurricane barrier. Those who dwell outside flood areas who would prefer to ride out the storm may also take shelter in mass care hurricane shelters.

When city officials issue evacuation orders, residents and businesses are encouraged to take heed and leave the area in order to ensure their safety.

Take these important steps to prepare for a hurricane or tropical storm. Being prepared reduces property damage, injury or death.

• Make sure your family knows where to go in the event of a major weather event, whether you plan to evacuate or stay at a shelter.
• Ensure that you and your family are prepared by building an Emergency Kit and a communication plan.
• Also prepare your home by boarding it up to reduce risk of damage.

There are many alert systems that can be used in order to keep you updated about any storm, or hurricane before it occurs. You should check with your local public safety officials about which systems are used.

WBSM and FUN 107 will broadcast information about where you should go and what you should do when storms arise. Other broadcast radio and television stations will also broadcast messages from the Emergency Alert System.

Download the free Massachusetts Alerts app that sends alerts and other critical information to your smartphone, including weather alerts and emergency information.

Be sure you know how to remain receive alerts and warnings during storm. Wireless Emergency Alerts will automatically appear on your phone.

Learn critical alerts before and during storms, and listen to the Hazards National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio. It may also be advisable to keep a battery powered or crank radio on hand so as to receive alerts when power is down.