It’s important to stay informed and prepared when a storm develops. You don’t have control over when a hurricane or tropical storm will hit your area, but you can make sure you’re ready by following a few steps to keep yourself and your loved ones safe.

Stay informed.

When your local officials warn that a storm is coming, tune in to local news stations and check the National Hurricane Center for regular updates on the storm’s projected path and intensity. Follow all advice from your local officials on potential evacuation and emergency sheltering procedures.

Get your home ready.

Lower the risk of damage to your home by trimming any nearby trees or shrubs and placing sandbags in areas that may flood. If officials are warning of strong winds, cover or reinforce your windows to prevent them from breaking.

Shop for supplies.

When weathering a dangerous storm, it’s best to be overprepared. Make sure you have these items before the hurricane hits:

• Bottled water
• Nonperishable food
• Medications (prescription and over the counter)
• First aid supplies
• Toiletries
• Pet food
• Rain gear
• Batteries
• Flashlights
• Battery-operated radio
• Solar-powered phone charger
• Backup power solutions, including a generator and a portable power bank

Keep local emergency numbers handy.

Not only does this include 911, but also the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), your insurance company and your local utility company. Having these numbers handy will provide great assistance after the storm has passed.

Here’s a list of a few helpful websites that offer more information on how to be well prepared for extreme weather:

• Ready.gov
• National Hurricane Center
• Centers for Disease Control
• National Weather Service

If you need disaster assistance:

Apply for FEMA assistance by registering on the website DisasterAssistance.gov or by calling 1-800-621-FEMA (3362). Those using TTY, call 1-800-462-7585 directly; those who use 711 or Video Relay Service, call 1-800-621-3362.

Here are some helpful links for helping you navigate the aftermath of a storm:

• Recovering from a Disaster
• FEMA
• American Red Cross
• National Weather Service

We care about our customers' safety and satisfaction every day. That’s why we’re dedicated to helping our customers make it through any extreme weather event. Make sure you’re prepared by keeping your local emergency contact numbers handy, as well as the local numbers for reporting power outages in your area. And remember: no matter what, the first thing to do is to stay safe and secure.