Hurricane Evacuation Checklist

The Atlantic hurricane season runs from 1 June through 30 November, más o menos, with the peak occurring in August and September.

Authorities have created a storm checklist to help residents and visitors be ready to evacuate, if it comes to that.

Make sure your passport is up to date.

Enroll in the Smart Travelers Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive all important notifications by e-mail.

Gather all vital documents into a secure location and make photocopies, if you can, to be kept separately.

Build a basic disaster supplies kit

Store items in airtight plastic bags and put your entire disaster supplies kit in one or two easy-to-carry containers such as plastic bins. The kit should include:

·         Water (one gallon per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation)

·         Food (at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food)

·         Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert

·         Flashlight

·         First aid kit

·         Extra batteries

·         Whistle (to signal for help)

·         Dust mask (to help filter contaminated air)

·         Plastic sheeting and duct tape (to shelter in place)

·         Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties (for personal sanitation)

·         Wrench or pliers (to turn off utilities)

·         Manual can opener (for food)

·         Local maps

·         Cell phone with chargers and a backup battery

The Center for Disease Control recently recommended additional items:

·         Cloth face coverings (for everyone ages 2 and above), soap, hand sanitizer, disinfecting wipes to disinfect surfaces

·         Prescription medications

·         Non-prescription medications such as pain relievers, anti-diarrhea medication, antacids or laxatives

·         Prescription eyeglasses and contact lens solution

·         Infant formula, bottles, diapers, wipes and diaper rash cream

·         Pet food and extra water for your pet

·         Cash or traveler’s checks

·         Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account records saved electronically or in a waterproof, portable container

·         Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person

·         Complete change of clothing appropriate for your climate and sturdy shoes

·         Fire extinguisher

·         Matches in a waterproof container

·         Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items

·         Mess kits, paper cups, plates, paper towels and plastic utensils

·         Paper and pencil

·         Books, games, puzzles or other activities for children

The Mexican Army and/or Navy could be called in to enforce an evacuation. But if someone chooses not to evacuate during an emergency, Civil Protection in Yucatán has a policy of respecting that decision.

 

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