Family Hurricane Evacuation & Driving Safety Guide

When hurricane season hits, your family's safety depends on more than just luck; it takes a solid plan, calm decision-making, and smart driving choices. Whether you're a parent preparing a teen for their first storm or navigating evacuation logistics as a family, this guide walks you through what to do before, during, and after a hurricane hits the road.

Pre-Hurricane Prep: Get Ahead of the Storm

Start early. The more prepared you are before a hurricane forms, the smoother your evacuation will be.

• Communication Plan: Pick an out-of-state emergency contact and make sure every family member has their number.

• Meeting Points: Decide on a local spot and an out-of-town location where everyone can regroup.

• Divide Responsibilities: Assign tasks so no one is guessing what to do under pressure.

• Store Critical Documents: Use a waterproof container for IDs, insurance, and medical records.

• Build Your Emergency Kit: Include water, shelf-stable food, flashlights, a weather radio, batteries, meds, and first aid essentials.

Vehicle Readiness: Your Evacuation Lifeline

You can’t outrun a storm with a car that won’t start. Do this before hurricane season ramps up:

• Get a maintenance checkupTrending Car Maintenance Tips Get You Through Whole Year Driversed.com: tires, brakes, battery, and fluids.

• Keep your gas tank at least half full during hurricane season.

• Pack an emergency car kitTrending How Pack Emergency Winter Kit Your Car Driversed.com with jumper cables, tools, flares, and a flashlight.

• If possible, store extra fuel in approved containers.

Even if your area hasn’t faced a major storm before, assume this season could be different. Waiting until the last minute to prepare increases your risk.

Stay Informed: Reliable Sources Only

Don’t rely on social media rumors. For accurate storm tracking and alerts:

• Check the National Hurricane Center regularly.

• Use a NOAA weather radio with backup power.

• Sign up for local emergency alerts via text or email.

• Learn what to do if you’re ever caught driving in severe weatherTrending What Do If Youre Caught Driving Severe Weather Driversed.com.

Evacuating Safely: Don’t Wing It

If authorities issue an evacuation order, go. Leaving early avoids traffic, stress, and danger.

• Map Your Routes: Plan multiple paths out of town and check them often.

• Know Contraflow Routes: Some highways reverse lanes to speed up evacuation.

• Check Road Conditions: Use local DOT apps or traffic services to avoid flooded roads.

Safe driving tips for evacuation:

• Drive slowly and increase your following distance.

• Avoid standing water—turn around, don’t drown.

• Keep headlights on at all times.

• Let experienced drivers handle tough conditions.

After the Storm: Drive With Caution

Even after the hurricane passes, hazards remain. Only return home when officials give the green light.

Watch for:

• Downed power lines

• Debris and fallen trees

• Washed-out roads or loose gravel

• Malfunctioning traffic signals

Drive slowly and defensively. Storms change road conditions fast.

Bottom Line: Confidence Comes From Preparation

The more you plan, the more control you gain in uncertain times. Preparing your teen driver and family today means fewer decisions under pressure tomorrow. Create a family plan, keep your car ready, and stay informed.