Hurricane Evacuation Information

The Town of Bellingham Local Emergency Management Agency is recommending that the residents prepare for the current hurricane season, and upcoming winter blizzard season.

Before a Hurricane

To prepare for a hurricane, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) recommends you should take the following measures:

• Make plans to secure your property. Permanent storm shutters offer the best protection for windows. A second option is to board up windows with 5/8" marine plywood, cut to fit and ready to install. Tape does not prevent windows from breaking.
• Install straps or additional clips to securely fasten your roof to the frame structure. This will reduce roof damage.
• Be sure trees and shrubs around your home are well trimmed.
• Clear loose and clogged rain gutters and downspouts.
• Consider building a safe room.
• Fill your motor vehicle with gas.
• Make sure that you have at least seven days of medication on hand.
• Have extra cash available if needed.
• Have your important papers in a water-tight container.

During a Hurricane

If a hurricane is likely in your area, you should:

• Listen to the radio or TV for information.
• Secure your home, close storm shutters, and secure outdoor objects or bring them indoors.
• Turn off utilities if instructed to do so. Otherwise, turn the refrigerator thermostat to its coldest setting and keep its doors closed.
• Turn off propane tanks. Avoid using the phone, except for serious emergencies.
• Ensure a supply of water for sanitary purposes such as cleaning and flushing toilets. Fill the bathtub and other large containers with water.
• Stay away from downed trees, because of electrical wires.

You Should Evacuate Under the Following Conditions

• If you are directed by local authorities to do so. Be sure to follow their instructions.
• If you live in a mobile home or temporary structure - such shelters are particularly hazardous during hurricanes no matter how well fastened to the ground.
• If you live in a high-rise building - hurricane winds are stronger at higher elevations.
• If you live on the coast, on a floodplain, near a river, or on an inland waterway.
• The Bellingham Memorial Middle School on South Main and Blackstone Street is the town's main designated shelter for the town
• Please call 911 for emergencies only, downed wires or other problems please call the Bellingham Police Station at 508-966-1212 or Bellingham Fire at 508-966-1112

If you are unable to evacuate, go to your wind-safe room. If you do not have one, follow these guidelines:

• Stay indoors during the hurricane and away from windows and glass doors.
• Close all interior doors - secure and brace external doors.
• Keep curtains and blinds closed. Do not be fooled if there is a lull; it could be the eye of the storm - winds will pick up again.
• Take refuge in a small interior room, closet, or hallway on the lowest level.
• Lie on the floor under a table or another sturdy object.

After a Hurricane

FEMA also recommends that homeowners take the following precautions when returning home:

• If you smell gas or hear blowing or hissing noises, open windows and leave the house immediately. Turn off the gas at the main valve and call your gas utility company.
• Watch for downed power lines. Report them immediately to the Power Company, police or fire department.
• Check refrigerated foods for spoilage. If you even suspect that food may be unsafe, discard it.
• If your home has suffered water damage, open windows to provide ventilation. Remove wet contents including carpet, furniture and building materials.
• If you suspect sewage lines are damaged, avoid using the toilets and contact a plumber. If water pipes are damaged, contact the water company and avoid using water from the tap.
• Take pictures of the damage to both the house and its contents for insurance claims.
• Do not allow children to play in or around debris piles, and check play areas for disaster-caused safety hazards.
• Please do not ride around town to observe the damage done by the storm, emergency crews will be working to clear debris and to restore power to the area.

Source: FEMA