What should you do in the first 10 minutes after a hurricane warning?
Everything suddenly feels scary and urgent when you get a hurricane warning on your phone or TV. But those first few minutes are actually the most important ones. Think of this as the simple guide you follow when time is short. Check updates and gather what you need. You need to be informed at all times. Turn on your local news or your weather app. These alerts tell you if your area could flood or if you are in an evacuation zone. They also tell you what conditions you can expect. Get the essentials in order next. Keep your flashlight, medicine, cash, IDs and small essentials like a first-aid kit and spare batteries in a safe spot. If the power is still on, keep your phone charging so it does not die when you need it most. Secure the outside before the wind picks up. Bring anything light enough to blow away inside immediately. Chairs, small tables, planters and even small toys can break a window once the wind gets strong. Lock what you can and then check the windows and door...