Hurricane Safety

Disaster Response Network – Always Prepared

Jurisdictions seeking immediate assistance from the Disaster Response Network can call the Disaster Support Hotline at 888-ICC-SAFE (888-422-7233), ext. 5222.

Those looking to become a volunteer for the Disaster Response Network can register online.

Public Safety Officials

Download brochures.

Hurricane Preparedness Seminars. The International Code Council offers several seminars related to; hurricane preparedness to assist public safety officials, design professionals, inspectors, builders and contractors.

  • When Disaster Strikes

Hurricane-related Professional Materials

Hurricane Standards

Two standards are currently available that are related to hurricane safety and preparedness:

  • ICC 500-08 ICC/NSSA Standard for the Design and Construction of Storm Shelters
  • ICC 600-08 Standard for Residential Construction in High-Wind Regions

These standards are currently undergoing updates.  For information on the progress of the respective committees:

hurricane

Other Disaster Relief and Safety Organizations

Hurricane Season Begins. CPSC news release warns of dangers associated with severe weather.

National Weather Service. For the latest information on tropical weather, hurricane warnings and watches.

FEMA. For a list of federal disaster communities and public assistance.

FLASH. View additional hurricane protection resources.

American Red Cross. For a list of disaster-relief contact information

Hurricane-related Articles

Hurricane Safety – Protecting your Home

To help you get ready, the International Code Council offers the following recommendations.

At the beginning of hurricane season:

  • Prepare emergency supplies and store bottled drinking water.
  • Store flashlights and extra batteries.
  • Clean storm gutters and drains.
  • Prepare your home for high winds and rain.
  • Repair/replace storm shutters.
  • Check your property insurance policy for appropriate coverage.

Before the storm:

  • Bring in outdoor objects such as lawn furniture, toys, and garden tools. Anchor objects that cannot be brought inside.
  • Check/replace emergency supplies and store bottled drinking water.
  • Review evacuation plans.
  • Keep a supply of flashlights and extra batteries handy.

During the storm:

  • Listen to a battery-operated radio or television for hurricane progress reports. Stay inside, away from windows, skylights, and glass doors.
  • Keep a supply of flashlights and extra batteries handy.
  • If an evacuation is ordered, leave as soon as possible.
  • Avoid flooded roads and watch for washed-out bridges.
  • Secure your home by unplugging appliances and turning off electricity and the main water valve.

After the storm:

  • After the storm, stay tuned to local radio for information.
  • Return home only after authorities say that it is safe to do so.
  • Avoid loose or dangling power lines and report them immediately to the power company, police, or fire department.
  • Enter your home with caution.
  • Beware of snakes, insects, and animals driven to higher ground by flood water.
  • Open windows and doors to ventilate and dry your home.
  • Take pictures of any damage to the house and its contents for insurance claims.
  • Drive only if absolutely necessary and avoid flooded roads and washed-out bridges.
  • Use telephone only for emergency calls.