As we’ve seen repeatedly, hurricanes are dangerous, unpredictable storms. They’re so unpredictable that it’s impossible to know exactly where the safest place is during a hurricane in Richmond, VA. However, we can help you narrow down your options based on your location in Richmond. Whether you live downtown or out in Chesterfield County, here’s how to prepare for a potentially catastrophic storm:
Stay Away From Tall, Free-Standing Objects
Unfortunately, a hurricane is one of the worst things to be caught up in in Richmond, VA. The best way to protect yourself from high winds and flying debris is to avoid tall, free-standing objects. A tree or power line are some of the most dangerous things you can encounter in a hurricane. You also should avoid going up on the roof or into your car during a storm.
Get To The Lowest Floor Possible
When it comes to safety, there’s no place like the basement. It’s not just that you’re likely to be safer, but also less stressed. If water starts coming in, your property will be protected from flood damage, and you can sit back and wait for help. As for where exactly in your house the safest place is? That depends on a few factors: do you have a basement? Is it accessible? Do you have pets or elderly family members who would struggle with stairs? If so, then make sure they are somewhere safe too!
If not, or if something happens during an evacuation, try to find an interior room on the lowest floor with no windows or glass doors nearby that could shatter during high winds. Look for sturdy furniture such as bookcases or cabinets that won’t blow away if they’re anchored into walls, and make sure you turn off your electrical breaker if possible.
Stay Away From Windows And Glass Doors
When a hurricane hits, the pressure that builds up around it can be extremely powerful. This pressure can cause windows to break and doors to come off their hinges. When this happens, the flying glass can cut you or others nearby. If you are inside a home with heavy windows or glass doors, try to stay away from them as much as possible during the storm.
If You Have To Evacuate At The Last Minute, Write Down Your Route And Have An Emergency Evacuation Kit Ready
Make sure that everyone in your family is accounted for, then get your emergency evacuation kit and make sure it includes things like water, food, and warm clothing. Make sure you know where to go and what routes lead out of town. Check traffic conditions before heading out. If roads are still open but becoming congested or closed due to weather conditions ahead of time, plan a different route from home or work so there will be less congestion farther away from town when things start getting bad!
Don’t Go Outside During The Storm, Even If It Looks Quiet!
Although it may seem like the storm has passed, stay indoors until emergency officials give the OK. The calm before the storm is not only dangerous but unpredictable. Winds can pick up again unexpectedly and cause damage to your property and make roads impassable due to downed trees or power lines.
Conclusion
To summarize, the safest place during a hurricane is indoors and away from windows and glass doors. Your best place to be is your basement or an interior room on the lowest floor possible.
