A checklist of what to do - and pack - when a hurricane's coming

This is not a drill.

Forecasters say a hurricane is headed your way. Authorities have put out the order to evacuate. You need to get moving.

So what should you do first? First of all, don’t panic. There are many steps you can take to protect yourself, your loved ones and your property.

Here’s a checklist to help you get started, with tips from the American Red Cross, Federal Emergency Management Agency, the Department of Homeland Security and the National Hurricane Center.

Read it in full below or download the PDF, which contains links with more details. For anyone in the path of a hurricane, we encourage you to consult these online resources to help stay safe.

What to do as the storm approaches

• Stay inside
• Protect windows and doors with permanent storm shutters or plywood
• Keep local radio, NOAA radio or TV stations for new information
• Download the Red Cross emergency app (for iPhone, Android)
• Keep a hurricane lamp
• Make sure all pets have identification tags
• Store all lawn furniture, trash cans, toys and gardening tools inside to prevent them from getting blown away
• Find local emergency shelters
• Fill plastic bottles with drinking water
• Fill bathtubs with water
• Fill your car's gas tank
• Unplug all small devices and turn off propane tanks
• Buy a fire extinguisher
• Have a to-go pack ready and learn evacuation routes in your area

What to have on hand as a storm approaches

• First aid kit and instructions
• Fire extinguisher
• Flashlights
• Extra batteries
• Sleeping bags, blankets
• Cooking and eating utensils
• Week-long supply of prescription medicines
• Paper plates, cups and towels
• Non-perishable/canned foods
• Jumper cables
• Maps
• Roadside emergency kit
• GPS
• Cell phones and chargers
• Cash
• Toilet paper
• Disinfectant
• Plastic bucket with tight lid
• Plastic garbage bags
• Household bleach
• Feminine supplies
• Soap
• Wet wipes
• Rain gear
• Sturdy shoes

What to do after the storm arrives

• Let friends and loved ones know you're safe. You can mark yourself safe on Facebook or use the Safe and Well website.
• Document any property damage with photographs. Contact your insurance company for assistance.

In addition

• If you evacuated, return only once authorities let you know it's safe to do so.
• Be alert for tornadoes. They are often spawned by hurricanes.
• Avoid contact with floodwaters. It may be contaminated with sewage or contain dangerous insects or animals.
• Never walk or drive on flooded roads or through floodwaters.
• Look out for downed or unstable trees, poles and power lines.
• Do not drink tap water unless authorities say it is safe.