Essential Hurricane Preparedness Steps for Dothan, AL
Preparing for a hurricane requires clear plans, the right supplies, and ensuring the home is safe. Taking these steps early helps reduce risks and improves safety during storms.
Create a Family Emergency Plan
Each family member should know what to do before, during, and after a hurricane. This plan must include where to meet if separated and how to contact one another if phones are down.
Decide on evacuation routes and shelter locations. Practice this plan regularly. Ensure everyone understands how to turn off utilities like water, gas, and electricity.
Include pets in the plan, and arrange transportation as needed. Keep important documents, such as IDs and insurance papers, in a waterproof container that is easy to carry.
Assemble a Hurricane Emergency Kit
A hurricane emergency kit should have enough supplies to last at least three days for each family member. Start with:
- Water (1 gallon per person per day)
- Non-perishable food
- Battery-powered or hand-crank radio
Add flashlights with extra batteries, a first aid kit, necessary medicines, and personal hygiene items. Include cash, a whistle to signal for help, and copies of important documents.
Keep cell phone chargers and a solar or inverter charger if possible. Having cleaning supplies and tools like a wrench to turn off utilities is also helpful. More details on preparing a kit are available at Dothan-Houston County EMA.
Secure Your Home Against Storm Damage
Securing the home helps protect it from strong winds and flooding. Install storm shutters or board up windows with plywood. Remove or secure outdoor items like furniture and trash cans that could become projectiles.
Check the roof for loose tiles or shingles. Clear gutters and drains to prevent water damage. Trim trees that could fall on the house during the storm.
Know how to turn off utilities quickly to avoid fires or gas leaks. If flooding is a risk, move valuables to higher ground and consider sandbags to reduce water entry. Guidance on securing homes is provided by the Alabama Department of Public Health.
Local Resources and Recovery Planning
Being prepared for hurricane season means knowing how to get help, where to go, and what aid is available. This involves understanding evacuation paths, staying updated with weather alerts, and knowing the disaster assistance programs offered by local and federal agencies.
Know Evacuation Routes and Shelters in Dothan
Dothan has designated evacuation routes that residents should know before a storm hits. These routes lead away from flood zones and hazardous areas. It’s important to plan travel ahead and avoid crowded roads during a hurricane.
Local shelters offer safe places for families during an evacuation. The city provides information on shelter locations, capacity, and services through its emergency management office. People with special medical needs or pets should check for shelters that accommodate these requirements.
Residents can find detailed maps and instructions for evacuation by visiting the Dothan hurricane preparedness page.
Stay Informed With Local Weather Alerts
Weather conditions can change quickly during hurricane season. Dothan residents should sign up for local weather alerts and warnings through official channels. Alerts may come via phone texts, apps, or local news.
Monitoring National Weather Service updates and following local emergency management on social media help ensure timely information. Timely alerts allow families to react quickly, whether by preparing to shelter in place or evacuating early.
Having a battery-powered radio or a NOAA weather radio ensures access to updates if power or internet services fail.
Understand FEMA and Alabama Disaster Assistance Programs
Federal and state programs offer support after a hurricane. FEMA provides aid for temporary housing, home repairs, and financial help for disaster-related costs. Applying quickly after a disaster improves the chances of receiving assistance.
Alabama’s emergency management agency coordinates resources and programs specific to state residents. They provide information on how to qualify for help and where to go for recovery services.
Residents can learn more about available resources and application procedures at the FEMA hurricane preparedness site and the Ready Alabama hurricane site.
Storage Unit Rentals in Dothan, AL
Storage units are a practical solution for protecting belongings during hurricane season. Many facilities in Dothan offer clean, secure, and affordable options.
Iron Storage provides storage unit rentals in Dothan, AL with a focus on safety and convenience. They offer affordable rates, and new renters can get the first month for $1.
Other popular storage providers include Storage Rentals of America, Storageland, and U-Haul. These facilities often have climate-controlled units, which help protect sensitive items from humidity and temperature changes.
| Facility Name | Features | Location | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Iron Storage | Clean, secure, affordable | Dothan, AL | From $39/month |
| Storage Rentals of America | Reliable, secure, convenient | Off US-231 & Hartford Hwy | Varies, competitive |
| Storageland | Clean units, easy rentals | Dothan, AL | Affordable |
| U-Haul | Climate-controlled, clean | Montgomery Hwy, Dothan | Low cost |
Renting a storage unit can help keep items safe if evacuation is necessary or to reduce damage risk at home. Reservations are often available online to lock in the best price ahead of storms.
