Hurricane hazard mitigation for coastal Virginia

[From the U.S. Government Printing Office, www.gpo.gov]

D*isaster
Pre areaness
Handbook

Hurricane Hazard
IfI MI,* tio g a tis o n
for
Coastal
Virginia

COASTAL ZONE
M-101ZMATION r'ENTER
cj-) prepared by:
Commonwealth of Virginia
Office of Emergency and Energy Services

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X.
1980 X%

COMMONWEALTH OF
VIRGINIA

OFFICE OF EMERGENCY

AND ENERGY SERVICES

HURRICANE HAZARD MITIGATION

FOR

COASTAL VIRGINIA

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE NOAA
COASTAL SERVICES CENTER
2234 SOUTH HOBSON AVENUE
CHARLESTON, SC 29405-2413

JULY, 1980

The preparation of this handbook was financed in part
through a comprehensive planning grant from the Federal
Emergency Management Agency.

FOREWORD

Hurricanes--and the devastation they bring--are forceful

reminders of how frail our advance technology can be in the face

of these destructive Atlantic storms. Yet public officials have

a statutory responsibility under the State Code to use whatever

means are in their possession to reduce the consequences of

natural hazards. Local officials, in particular, have a central

role in hazard mitigation for their jurisdictions.

Through this publication, Hurricane Hazard Mitigation for

Coastal Virginia, the State Office of Emergency and Energy

Services seeks to acquaint local officials with the vulnerability

of our coastal regions to the hazards posed by the "greatest

storm on earth", and offers suggested guidelines for the develop-

ment of effective hazard reduction measures. Our ultimate purpose,

of course, is to save lives and reduce property loss should a major

hurricane, for which we are long overdue, make landfall along

Virginia's coast.

Richmond, Virginia Geor Jones
July, 1980 Sta e oordinator of Emergency
and E ergy Services
r -Jor
00 rdir
y S@
e @rg

HURRICANE HAZARD MITIGATION FOR COASTAL VIRGINIA

TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page

FOREWORD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1. INTRODUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

II. THE HURRICANE THREAT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Characteristics of Hurricanes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Components of Hurricanes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Factors Influencing the Severity of Hurricanes . . . . . . . 4

Hurricane Scale Ranges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

III. THE VIRGINIA COAST: POPULATION AND GEOGRAPHIC FACTORS . . . . . 6

IV. VIRGINIA HURRICANE PREPAREDNESS PROGRAM . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

V. HAZARD REDUCTION THROUGH IMPROVED BUILDING STANDARDS . . . . . . 8

Guidelines for Hurricane-Proof Construction . . . . . . . . 11

Mobi'le Home Construction Standards and Safety . . . . . . . 25

Building Construction Checklist for the Virginia Coast. . . 27

VI. LAND-USE MANAGEMENT . . . . . . . . . @ . I . . . q . . . . . . 32

Protection of Sand Dunes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

Protection of Wetlands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Protection of Public Beaches . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Erosion Abatement Actions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

Coastal Set-Back Lines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

VII. COMMUNITY ACTION AND INDIVIDUAL PROTECTIVE MEASURES . . . . . . 37

Public Awareness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

Evaluation of Local Preparedness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52

Hurricane Survival Checklist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56

iii

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I. INTRODUCTION
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HURRICANE HAZARD MITIGATION FOR COASTAL VIRGINIA

Introduction

I am afraid that most Virginians have not learned
from the past. As a result, a major hurricane
could leave a death toll in Virginia alone far
exceeding the 6,000 people who died in Galveston,
Texas, in the Great Hurricane of 1900.

Dr. Neil Frank, Director of the National Hurricane Center, made this
somber statement at a Hurricane Awareness Symposium for local government
officials at Norfolk, Virginia, in June, 1979. We, in the State Office
of Emergency and Energy Services who, under the Commonwealth of Virginia
Emergency Services and Disaster Law, share with local government-elected
officials the responsibility for the safety and welfare of our citizens,
are in full agreement with Dr. Frank's assessment. Sometime in the future,
a hurricane will kill hundreds, if not thousands, of Virginians and cause
millions of dollars of property damage. We do not know precisely when or
where, but it will happen.

Since 1900, 129 hurricanes have crossed our Atlantic and Gulf coasts.
Fifty-three of these have been classified by NOAA's National Weather
Service as "major" hurricanes--that is, hurricanes with peak winds in
excess of 110 miles per hour and storm surges greater than eight feet.

The impacts of these storms can be staggering. The two deadliest
U. S. hurricanes in this century killed over 6,000 people at Galveston,
Texas, in 1900, and 1,800 people at Lake Okeechobee, Florida, in 1928.
The two costliest landfalls were by Hurricane Agnes, a relatively weak
storm which caused $2.1 billion in damage in the East and Northeast in
1972, and Hurricane Camille, which caused $1.4 billion in damage in 1969
in Mississippi and Louisiana, and Nelson County, Virginia.

We have been lucky, when compared to other areas of the world.
Hurricane Tracy virtually wiped out the City of Darwin, Australia, on
Christmas Day, 1974. About 300,000 people died when a hurricane struck
Bangladesh in 1970--probably the largest fatality figure ever attributed
to a single natural event.

In the 79 years since the Galveston disaster, the United States has
put men on the moon, orbited satellites to forecast the weather, and
developed computers that can solve the most complex problems. One might
assume that our technological ingenuity has reduced or eliminated the
risk of losing substantial numbers of lives in a hurricane. That is,
however, not true.

In fact, the hurricane peril has significantly increased. More
Americans are at risk today from a major hurricane than at the turn of the
century.

9 First, more people are potentially in the path of hurricanes.
Our coastal populations are increasing at a rate more than three
times the rate of national population growth. This is not pri-
marily due to the high fertility of U. S. beach lovers--rather
newcomers are moving into coastal areas in record numbers.
By 1970, 48 million people lived within 50 miles of the Atlantic
coast alone.

e Second, a large percentage of these coastal dwellers have no
significant experience with hurricanes. In the last twenty years,
only one hurricane with a substantial death toll has hit the East
Coast of the United States. Much of the uninitiated population
has little appreciation of the potential destructive power of
these storms.

9 Finally, the long periods of time between major hurricanes has
lulled society into a false sense of complacency. Awards of
water and sewer permits by.local governmental authorities have
allowed concentrated development in areas where people are in
jeopardy during coastal storms. Building codes are lax--and
sometimes poorly enforced. Evacuation plans are often out of
date and are in need of revision. Summer tourists add yet another
dimension. For example, during a summer weekend the number of
visitors at Virginia Beach will increase the normal population by
more than 75,000. It would be difficult to evacuate this popular
resort area in the likely time available to cope with a major
hurricane.

The question for state and local officials is: WHAT CAN BE DONE?

Three basic and complementary strategies are available to reduce the
costs of killer hurricanes:

1. We can try to mitigate the intensity or impact of the hurricane.

2. We can better warn populations in areas threatened by an approach-
ing hurricane and have appropriate responses to those warnings.

3. We can strive for prudent development in areas significantly.
threatened by hurricanes.

The purpose of this handbook is to address these strategies in terms
of recommendations for local government officials and community leaders to
lessen the impact of the greatest storm on earth--the Hurricane--should it
strike Virginia's coastal jurisdictions.

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I II. THE HURRICANE THREAT
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THE HURRICANE THREAT

Hurricane approach and landfall may drastically change the shoreline and
damage or destroy man-made structures. Large, steep waves riding the crest of
a storm surge erode beaches, dunes, and cliffed bay shores and destroy inade-
quately-designed buildings. The storm surge inundates low-lying areas along
bay and mainland shorelines with salt water, and severe storm-surge flooding
may destroy large areas of natural vegetation and agricultural crops. Fresh-
water flooding produced by torrential hurricane rainfall may be particularly
destructive along natural drainage systems. Hurricane winds may damage or
destroy man-made structures, with mobile homes particularly vulnerable to wind
damage. Because of the direct and pervasive relationship of hurricanes and
many natural coastal hazards, an understanding of hurricanes is important.

Characteristics of Hurricanes

Hurricanes develop from a variety of tropical weather disturbances and
pass through several increasingly-intense phases, classified as tropical
depressions (with winds less than 40 mph), tropical storms (with winds between
40 and 73 mph), and finally, hurricanes (with winds over 73 mph).

Hurricane size and intensity are not directly related. The most intense
hurricanes are not necessarily the largest; for example, the diameter of
cyclonic circulation tends to increase during the decaying stage (Colon, 1966).
Low barometric pressure and relatively-high wind velocity are common to all
tropical disturbances, and these parameters are more suitable for classifying
hurricanes (Dunn and Miller, 1964).

Average life of a hurricane, determined by time and place of origin and
rate of forward movement, is about nine days. Most hurricanes move forward
at a rate of about 12 mph. The forward speed of hurricanes that have struck
the Virginia coast in the past have averaged 8-12 mph.

Components of Hurricanes

WIND - Wind is the element most commonly associated with hurricanes by the
public. Highest wind speeds occur in a narrow ring usually extending 20-30
miles from the center of the hurricane. The highest measured wind speed was
197 mph in Inez (Colon, 1966), but gusts of 220 mph have been estimated from
damages and barometric pressure records. In a major hurricane, gusts between
73 and 120 mph may extend 40-100 miles from the center. Minor damages begin
with winds of approximately 50 mph. Moderate damages, such as broken windows
and displaced shingles, begin with winds of around 80 mph; and major struc-
tural destruction begins when wind speeds reach 100 mph (Friedman, 1971).

STORM SURGE - About 90 percent of the deaths near the coast which result from
hurricanes are caused not by wind but by storm surge--the rise of water above
mean sea level. The height of storm surge along the open coast depends on a
number of factors which include wind speed, depth of water, storm trajectory,
and speed of the storm. Coastal configuration can result in a funneling effect,
and coincidence with normal astronomical tide will also affect surge height.

Although the maximum surge usually affects only a short length of coastline,
combined storm surge and wave action may have damaging effects over 100 miles
away in either direction.

RAINFALL - Some of the greatest rainfalls recorded in Virginia have resulted
from hurricanes. Upon striking a land mass and moving inland, the forward
movement of a hurricane is reduced, and the rate of rainfall increases.
Maximum rainfall occurs in front of and along the right side of slowly-moving
tropical storms. Rainfall is equally distributed in the front and rear halves
of storms whose forward motion has stalled.

WAVES - Wind-driven waves on top of the storm surge pose a number of problems.
First of all, the wave run-up can flood areas not reached by the surge itself.
Second, the battering action of waves can transmit tremendous force. Third,
the erosive power of waves is considerable.

TORNADOES - The hurricane system usually generates a number of tornadoes in
the right front quadrant of the storm as it approaches landfall and moves
inland. The average length and width of hurricane-induced tornado paths is
only half that of non-hurricane tornadoes, although they are still powerful
storms.

Factors Influencing Severity of Hurricane Impact

The severity of hurricanes can-be expressed in various terms, such as
damage to man-made structures, monetary losses, and loss of human life.
The nature of the storm, population density, and shoreline characteristics
determine the number of lives lost, the extent of shoreline erosion, and
damage to or destruction of man-made structures. The nature of the storm
dictates whether storm surge, fresh-water flood:ing, or wind will be the
dominant destructive element. The loss of human life and the amount of
property damage is directly affected by population density. Shoreline
characteristics will either amplify or diminish some of the hurricane
processes.

Hurricane Scale Ranges
Saffir and Simpson have devised*a five-category scale of hurricane
intensity which is being used increasingly to describe hurricanes. It gives
a general indication of both wind speed and storm surge height. See table
following:

SAFFIR/SIMPSON HURRICANE SCALE RANGES

Scale Central Pressure
Number Winds Surge Damage
(Category) Millibars Inches (Mph) (Ft.)
Ul

I Z 980 Z 28.94 74 - 95 4 - 5 Minimal

2 965 - 979 28.50 - 28.91 96 - 110 6 - 8 Moderate

3 945 - 964 27.91 - 28.47 Ill - 130 9 - 12 Extensive

4 920 - 944 27.17 - 27.88 131 - 155 13 - 18 Extreme

5 < 920 < 27.17 > 155 >18 Catastrophic

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III. THE VIRGINIA COAST: POPULATION AND GEOGRAPHIC FACTORS
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DESCRIPTION OF VIRGINIA'S COAST*

Virginia's coastal zone, including offshore islands, Chesapeake Bay and
Atlantic Ocean shoreline, is 3,315 miles in length. Two hundred ninety-four
miles of this is classified as beach. Seventy-seven percent of the coast is
privately owned, and limited public access to the shore is a serious State-
wide problem. All but 106 miles of coast is either undeveloped or in non-
recreational low-density uses.

Th e Chesapeake Bay shore consists of erodible bluffs interspersed with
tidal wetlands and scattered sandy beaches. Uninhabited barrier islands and
wetlands occupy most of the Atlantic shores of Northampton and Accomack
Counties. Much of this land is owned by the Nature Conservancy--an inter-
national, private, non-profit organization. Apart from the City of Virginia
Beach and the small community of Sandbridge, the coast between Cape Henry and
the North Carolina boundary is occupied by military reservations, state park
land and nature reserves.

Virginia's Tidewater counties encompass 29 percent of the State's area
and include 62 percent of the total population (i.e., 3,028,150). Population
growth in this area is one and one-half times faster than the State average.
Although woodland (59.1%) and agriculture (22.4%) are the dominant land uses,
residential development (3.1%) and tourism are increasingly important compo-
nents. Here tourism--most of it shore based--provides 16 percent of all
private employment in Virginia.

Flooding and erosion are rated as high priority concerns by planners in
coastal counties. Increasing urbanization along the southern shores of
Chesapeake Bay, combined with the pending development of onshore Outer
Continental Shelf ('OCS) oil and gas support facilities, will exacerbate
present flood and erosion problems. Storm surge flooding associated with
hurricanes and slow-moving Northeasters is a major problem in Chesapeake Bay.

Erosion is a critical problem along 18 percent of the shorefront. The
Virginia Institute of Marine Science has undertaken a comprehensive assess-
ment of erosion and flood hazard in each coastal county.

Virginia's 1973 Erosion and Sediment Control Law requires comprehensive
erosion control plans to be developed by coastal localities. The State's
Wetlands Act (1972) provides coastal localities and the Virginia Marine
Resources Commission with authority to issue permits for construction in
flood-prone tidal wetlands and adjacent territory. Together with the flood
hazard clauses of the Statewide building code, these are the primary manage-
ment tools for coping with flood and erosion hazards throughout the State.

*Source: Natural Hazard Management in Coastal Areas, NOAA, Office of
Coastal Zone Management, Washington, D.C., November, 1976.

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I IV. VIRGINIA HURRICANE PREPAREDNESS PROGRAM
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VIRGINIA'S HURRICANE PREPAREDNESS PROGRAM

Program Description

Recognizing the vulnerability of our coastal area and the potentia 1 for
a major disaster should a major storm strike our coast, in 1978 the State
Office of Emergency and Energy Services, in cooperation with the affected local
governments, embarked on a three-phased hurricane disaster preparedness program
for the Eastern I'Shore and Tidewater regions of the State.

The phases consist of (1) identifying the hurricane hazards in our
coastal areas; (2) assisting local governments in developing hurricane emer-
gency response plans; and (3) developing hurricane hazard mitigation programs
for the high-risk coastal jurisdictions. We felt the undertaking of this
project was vital, inasmuch as the population in our coastal areas has grown
so swiftly that most residents have never felt the full impact of these great
storms and are largely unaware of the dangers inherent in the storm surge.
Many have experienced only the fringe effects of the hurricane and have
developed a false sense of security.

Program Status

PHASE I - The identification of hurricane hazards for each Eastern Shore and
coastal Tidewater jurisdiction. This was accomplished in CY 1978 through the
development of hazard analysis maps showing high-risk areas and the compila-
tion of an accompanying hurricane survival checklist. In accordance with a
joint State-National Ocean Survey agreement, if funding is made available,
hazard identification maps for the remaining Northern Neck jurisdictions will
be prepared in CY 1981. This will complete the mapping program for the State's
entire Atlantic Ocean and Chesapeake Bay coastline.

PHASE II - The preparation of hurricane response plans. Plans which establish
emergency procedures and responsibilities, delineate control measures, desig-
nate shelters and identify evacuation routes were completed for the Eastern
Shore and coastal Tidewater jurisdictions in CY 1979.

PHASE III - The development and recommendation of hurricane hazard mitigation
measures for Virginia's coastal jurisdictions. This handbook is designed to
fulfill the requirements of Phase III. Recommendations for hazard reduction
through improved building standards, land use management, natural hazard
disclosure, erosion abatement, and community and individual protective
measures are presented to local government officials for their consideration
in developing effective local hurricane preparedness and mitigation programs.

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I V. HAZARD REDUCTION THROUGH IMPROVED BUILDING STANDARDS
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HURRICANE HAZARD REDUCTION THROUGH
IMPROVED BUILDING STANDARDS

Virginia's coast has not suffered catastrophic loss of life and property
since Hurricane DONNA, with her 138-miles-per-hour winds, struck the coastal
jurisdictions'on September 12, 1960; however, conditions are now developing
which lead officials to fear another major storm. In fact, Hurricane DAVID,
which devastated Puerto Rico and battered the North and South Carolina coasts
on September 5, 1979, was a near miss. Factors which contribute to the fear
of a future destructive hurricane include the following:

@ Rapidly-increasing development in low-lying coastal areas, many of
which are reachable only over stretches of exposed low roads.

a Influx of persons,from non-coastal areas who fail to appreciate how
devastating a major hurricane can be. This problem is compounded
by the fact that many persons have experienced a near miss or only
a minor storm and thus have a casual attitude toward these storms.

o- Warning systems have improved much in recent years, contributing to
complacency among both officials and the public. However, a plateau
has been reached; and additional significant improvements are not
anticipated.

The best way--from a technical, political, and economic standpoint--
to significantly reduce hurricane damage on a wide scale is through the use
of hurricane-resistant building practices.

If proper standards-are developed and thoughtfully applied in a manner
consistent with the exposure to hurricane dangers, damage can be greatly
reduced at a modest cost. Since a substantial portion of the population
inevitably refuses to evacuate during a warning, the use of stronger struc-
tures will obviously result in lower loss of life during the storms.

Currently, all political subdivisions in the Commonwealth of Virginia
are governed in their construction practices by a Unified Statewide Building
Code. The Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code was enacted by the 1972
Virginia General Assembly, effective September 1, 1973. The current edition
was adopted June 19, 1978, becoming effective August 1, 1978, and is comprised
of the following texts:

The BOCA Basic Building Code/1978
The BOCA Basic Plumbing Code/1978
The BOCA Basic Mechanical Code/1978
The One and Two Family Dwelling Code/1975
The National Electrical Code/1978
The Virginia Administrative Amendments/1978

The Unified Statewide Building Code protects many people living in the
coastal zone to some degree because of requirements for continued eligibility
for the State in the Federal Flood Insurance Program. The National Flood
Insurance Program regulates those buildings in the coastal zone in designated
"flood hazard" areas, ensuring that such buildings shall maintain some degree
of protection against flood waters.

The Flood Insurance Program is similar in nature to other zoning concepts,
only it is on a national level. Essentially the program requires local commu-
nities to adopt flood plain zoningas a requirement to obtaining federal mortgage
loan funds. One typical requirement of the program is that the first habitable
floor level of all new buildings is to be above the 100-year flood level (or
storm surge level on the coast) to qualify for federally-subsidized flood
insurance. All construction in flood-prone zones will be required to have flood
insurance to obtain a mortgage loan from any federally-subsidized or insured
savings and loan institution. Conformance with the specified requirements of
the National Flood Insurance Program will qualify a homebuilder for "federally-
subsidized" insurance, whereas those not in compliance will have to purchase
more expensive unsubsidized insurance to obtain a house loan. Local communities
may also have additional restrictive flood zoning measures, depending on the
area.

While the Statewide Code does provide some degree of flood protection, it
does not give, for all localities, a level of protection by assurance that the
100-year wind loadings are considered in designs which would permit structures
to withstand hurricane forces--wind, as well as storm surge and flooding.

A wide variety of dwellings have been constructed along Virginia's coast-
line ranging from high-rise condominiums and resort hotels to small cottages.
Most of the larger structures are designed by professionals; and since Virginia
lies in a hurricane-prone region, these expensive buildings are usually designed
to withstand hurricane forces. By contrast, builders of less-expensive single-
family homes may not feel they can afford the services of a design professional.
Consequently, when hurricane conditions do occur, these smaller structures
usually suffer most. Much of the storm damage to these buildings is attributable
to vulnerable location, too low in elevation, or a structural design not adequate
for hurricane forces.

Local governing bodies are encouraged to review the Unified Statewide
Building Code to ensure that the standards prescribed therein provide sufficient
protection for their particular geographic locations with respect to hurricane-
force winds* and storm surge. The National Weather Service, Norfolk International
Airport, Norfolk, Virginia, can provide historical data on Atlantic coast storms
which can assist local officials in determining the wind load forces and storm
surge heights that should be considered in establishing adequate hurricane
protective standards.

*BOCA Basic Building Code/1978, Section 712.2.1, Increased Loads: For struc-
tures located in flat, open country, open flat coastal belts, grassland,
unusually exposed positions or in geographical regions where local records
indicate higher wind loads than established in Section 712.1, the higher
wind load shall be used.

If local governments determine to be more conservative than is minimally
necessary to comply with the Unified Statewide Building Code, they should
require the building official to designate standards applicable to the special
hurricane threat to their jurisdiction. Should it be necessary to seek amend-
ment to the Code in order to achieve the desired protective standards of
construction, local governing bodies should follow the procedures prescribed
in Section 36-100, 1978 Accumulative Supplement to the Unified Statewide
Building Code.**

To assist builders, owners, potential buyers of coastal homes and local
building officials, suggested guidelines for hurricane-proof construction
are set forth below. The guidelines are part of a Florida Sea Grant Study,
"Hurricane-Resistant Construction for Homes", by Todd L. Walton, Jr.,
University of Florida. While the guidelines were developed primarily for
Florida's coastal areas, it is believed the construction standards and
techniques discussed therein are equally applicable for Virginia's coastal
areas.

"Section 36-98, Code of Virginia, mandates the State Board of Housing and
Community Development to adopt all Code provisions and regulations.

SUGGESTED GUIDELINES FOR
I'HURRICANE-PROOF" CONSTRUCTION'

From the observations of various engineering specialists, it appears that
any type of construction (i.e., wood, brick, or masonry) can be designed to
withstand hurricane-force winds if designed properly and in accordance with
good engineering practices (3, 14). This section is aimed at providing some
specific guidelines and information as to where additional guidelines can be
obtained for good high-hazard residential construction.

Much of the information within this section can be obtained in two
excellent publications: "Houses Can Resist Hurricanes" FPL 33 by the Forest
Products Laboratory (15), and "How to Build Storm-Resistant Structures" by
the Southern Pine Association (16). References (15) and (16) can be obtained
by writing to the respective issuing agencies.

Wood Frame Construction

Wood is an excellent building material for use in the hazardous coastal
zone provided it is properly treated. Specific construction practices which
can make the difference in a normal wood frame house and a hurricane-proof
house are the uses of good anchorage and fasteners. To be structurally sound,
a building should be rigidly fastened and have its components properly held
together. Proper fastenings throughout the entire building are the key to
good construction here. This process begins at the foundation where the wood
sill is anchored to the concrete or concrete block foundation wall (see
Figure 8). From there fastening should continue from the sill to the wall
studs (see Figure 9). Commercial framing anchors and fastenings are available
for this type construction which consists of punched metal straps. These type
of connectors or variations thereof are used in both the South Florida Building
Code and the Southern Standard Building Code and are available at building
suppliers in counties utilizing those codes.

At the top of the walls, other type metal connectors can be used (Figures
10, 11) to provide a rigid connection between the wall studs, plate, and the
roof trusses.

Poor nailing practices are a cause of numerous building failures due to
high winds. Reference (15) provides a table of recommended nailing practices
to be used for sound construction. This table (Table 2, page 18, Reference 15)
should be included in your building plans for the contractor to comply with.

Due to the severe racking forces encountered in high winds, it is recom-
mended that wood frame homes use either plywood sheathing or wood sheathing on all

Note: Numbers in parentheses (1) refer to references at end of this section.

***Extracted from Hurricane-Resistant Construction for Homes, by Todd L.
Walton, Jr., Coastal Engineering Specialist, Coastal Engineering
Laboratory, University of Florida, Marine Advisory Program Publication
SUSF-SG-76-005.

BILL OR
g
LARGE PLATE PLATE
WASHER
POURED
CAP

ANCHOR
BOLT.SPACE
4'lo 6'APART

CONCRETE CONCRETE BLOCX

Figure 8. Anchoring wood sill or plate to
foundation. From Reference (15).

SOLE
NAILED PLATE
THROUGH
SHEATHING
INTO
STUD

STRAPPING
NAIL To
SILL

NAIL TO
STUDS

NAIL TO
SI LL

Figure 9. Foundation-to-wall connections: A, straps
nailed directly to studs; A, straps nailed
through sheathing into studs. From reference
(15).
SOLE
T
t@

j PLA
0
L

.12

walls of the house to provide good lateral resistance. Additionally, plywood
sub-flooring and attic flooring should be used to provide good tortional
resistance in the horizontal plane of the house. Reference (15) covers both
types of sheathing and shows recommended nailing and connection practices for
sheathing. Figure 12 shows a timber frame house which failed in the winds of
Cyclone "Tracy" in Darwin, Australia in December of 1974. This house would
not have collapsed had the walls been sheathed to provide lateral rigidity.
Plywood sheathing also provides good insulation for the energy-conscious home-
owner. Numerous other good timber construction practices are provided in
Reference (15). Rather than repeat this information it is best for the home-
owner desiring a timber frame home to request a copy of this reference from
the snurce listed.

ROOF TRUSS OR RAFTER.--__.,,,,
61 C9,MMON OR
I 3/4'ROOFING
NAILS

TOENAIL RAFTER TO
PLATE-OPPOSITE SIDE

WALL PLATE

8@ ILS
STUD

Figure 10. Single member plate connectors. From
Reference (15).

JOIST
AIL TO JOIST RAFTER
I 3/4"ROOFING
NAILS
RAFTER NAIL TO
TOENAIL RAFTER
1 3/4
ROOFING
NAILS

TOP 8q NAILS
PLATE
STUD
R
IL
JO'S
A
T
L
3
To
/4 *"F
@C
PL
NAILS' 7STUD
r@E N
STUD@

Figure 11. Rafter-to-stud plate connector for:
A, ceiling joist over stud, and B,
rafter over stud. From Reference
(15).

*P*T
-d0l;

il,@,; NY

Figure 12. House destroyed by racking force
in Cyclone Tracy.

Masonry and Brick Construction

Unsupported masonry walls of typical residential type construction with
a height of 8-9 feet per floor are adequate to withstand typical hurricane
wind forces,provided they are constructed in accordance with regulations of
either the South Florida Building-Code or the Southern Standard Building Code.
This would include reinforcement bars internally through the blocks from
foundation to ceiling in interior and exterior corners of the house and at
all framed doors or large windows for the case of masonry block walls (see
Figure 13). A continuous reinforced concrete bond beam completes the top
layer and should be adequately tied into the roofing system by metal fasten-
ings (hurricane clips) or some method of bolting.

The exterior surface of concrete block walls should be stuccoed or water
proofed in some manner to resist rain penetration (3,21). The interior of
concrete block walls should have furrings strips and then interior cladding
to reduce any through-the-wall moisture penetration. Condensation may occur
within uninsulated masonry block and can be controlled by installing a vapor
barrier on the warm side of the wall. A water emulsion asphalt paint applied
to the wall surface as it is constructed is one method used to provide a
moisture barrier. Moisture penetration through masonry foundation walls below
grade is controlled by parging the outer face with portland cement plaster or
mortar.

Cavity type brick walls with inner cavities not greater than 2 feet
have withstood the strongest winds of Cyclone "Tracy" in Darwin, Australia
(150 mph) (14). This type of wall is shown in Figure (14) and should have
metal ties not less than one per two square feet of wall bonded into the
mortar between walls. Cavity walls are very good for severe exposure because
the cavity acts as a barrier to moisture. Rain penetration to the interior
wall is practically impossible if proper flashing and weep holes are installed.
To be effective certain precautions must be observed during construction.

A
'A

c B

B B

114 it

4000000

A. Continuous reinforced concrete bond beam. Lap
bars at corners

B. Reinforced concrete studs tied to footing

C. Reinforcement in horizontal mortar join,ts

D. Reinforced concrete footing

Figure 13. Typical methods of reinforcing concrete masonry
walls. From Reference (21).

CONCRETE OR
METAL CLAY MASONRY
TIES

Figure 14. Cavity type walls.

The cavity must be kept free of mortar droppings and weep holes must be pro-
vided in conjunction with flashing to properly drain the cavity of any water
which enters the outer wall and collects on the flashing. A vapor barrier
is not required in a cavity wall where the cavity is insulated with fill
materials such as water-repellent vermiculite or silicon-treated perlite
which will not retain excessive moisture, or with rigid board materials such
as glass tubes, framed glass, or foamed plastics that are at least 1" less
in thickness than the cavity and are installed next to the inner wall.

Solid brick walls bonded with masonry headers are considerably less
resistant to rain penetration than the metal-tied cavity type walls and
should not be used in this severe exposure area.

If veneer brick walls are to be used (see Figure 15), wood or plywood
sheathing should be used behind it to provide protection against water pene-
tration and also to provide additional racking resistance. Corrosion-
resistant metal ties should be used to tie in the brick work to the sheathing
and studs to act structurally with the load-bearing backup material. One
metal tie should be provided for each 2 feet of wall area.

NAIL METAL TIE
TO STUD

WOOD FRAME
WALL

MASONRY
VENEER
METAL TIES

Figure 15. Veneer Brick Wall

Pole Houses

Due to the recent enactment of the National Flood Insurance Program and
the requirement that the first habitable floor level of the building be above
the 100-year storm tide, a considerable number of future residential structures
built in the coastal zone will be required to be on poles (i.e., pole houses
or "stilt" houses). Pole houses are a special type of wood house using
pressure-treated timber poles to provide elevation and structural rigidity.

In areas where erosion due to wave forces or deflation due to wind forces
can cause a loss of foundation material, it is wise to use pole-type construction
regardless. Figure 16 is of a pole house which was sitting on an 18-foot-high
dune system prior to September, 1975. Hurricane "Eloise" with winds of over
100 mph and an 11-foot storm tide eroded the dunes in this area some 60 feet.
Other houses in the area were not built on poles and were completely destroyed
while the house shown suffered only very minor damage.

Two basic types of pole house construction exist. One type, as in
Figure 16, has its poles cut off at the first floor level and is tied into
the first floor. A better type of construction from a structural standpoint
is to have the pole system run integrally through the structure and rigidly
tied into the house frame at the first floor level and the rafters (15) as
illustrated in Figure 17.

Considerable literature exists on the design of pole house type con-
struction, along with some basic structural framing plans for these types of
homes in References (15), (17), (18), (19), and (20). Structure details on
the various aspects of constructing these types of buildings as well as
discussing the aspect of pole embedment are given in References (15), (18),
and (20). The depth of pole embedment for a given house is dependent on both the
house shape, exposed surfaces to the wind, wind speed and height of structure
above ground. If the structure is built too close to water or is built in an
area of loose sand (i.e., no vegetative cover to prevent deflation) then con-
sideration should be given to possible loss of pole embedment cover due to
erosion by wind or water. Determining pole embedment in the design of a pole
house is the job of a professional engineer or architect and should not be
attempted by unqualified persons. Lateral and diagonal bracing between poles
to provide for wind or water forces is also a job for professional engineers
or architects. Where diagonal structural bracing is to be used between poles
(in areas where design flood level is above grade), it is suggested that
cable-type cross bracing be used to minimize water or wave forces on the
structural framing. Additional good building practice in such situations is
to use plywood sheathing on the underside of the house. Some examples of
this type of practice are given in Reference (15).

Where through house type pole construction (Figure 17) is not used, it
becomes necessary to properly anchor the house to the poles. Again, a pro-
fessional engineer or architect should either design or certify the design of
such structures to withstand the required structural loadings of the house.

It is common practice in pole house construction to have a contractor
who specializes in pole type construction build the pole and beam framing for
the house, while a second contractor (homebuilder) builds the house to design
specifications on this framing system.

M-4

-Iftow"

Figure 16. Pole house which survived Hurricane Eloise.

V-1

4
11W
W
1-4

Figure 17. Pole house with integral pole rigid frame construction.

As a final testament to the structural soundness of well-designed pole
houses, Reference (19) discusses types of pole houses which have survived the
worst winds and water forces of Hurricane Camille with only minor damage to
the structure. One family moved back into their pole house one day after
Camille made its landfall.
Roofs SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS

By far, the greatest damage to homes in hurricane-prone zones is due to
roof losses and consequent water damage. Although any roof can be properly
designed to withstand hurricane-force loads, it is apparent through experience
that some roof types are considerably better than others. Shapewise, it
appears, hip roofs are better than gable roofs while at the same time more
steeply pitched roofs fare better than low-pitched roofs (3, 14). Low-pitched
roofs act as airfoils and have higher uplift pressures exerted on their wind-
ward sides. Resisting uplift pressures becomes of more fmportance in design
of low-pitched roofs.

It appears from research on wind pressure on roofs that roofs having a
pitch angle of over 400 should prevent negative (suction) pressures from
developing on the windward si*de of roofs (2).

The majority of roofs today are framed with prefabricated roof trusses
which have tension-compression web members in them. These provide a very
good framing system with good structural rigidity in the plain or the trusses,
although the designer should require that the trusses be sufficiently strong
to withstand design wind loads.

A need for structural ri,gi,di,ty in the ridge framing direction is also
of importance,though, as-has been found by- the recent disastrous effects of
Cyclone "Tracy", which hit Darwin, Australta in 1974 (14). An example of a
building which lacked good bracing in the ridge frame direction and in the
corresponding walls is shown in Figure (12). This type of failure could
have been prevented by diagonal wall bracing and adequately-designed structural
purlines, roof sheathing (15), or a ceiling designed as a diaphragm (22, 23),
all of which should be adequately fastened to the wall framing.

It appears that the longitudinal bracing provided for in hip roofs may
be a contributing factor to the apparent successful performance of hip roofs
over the more common gable-type roof systems.

Roof coveri'ngs for roofs should be selected so that high winds do not
cause a loss of water-shedding ability. Both wood shingles and wood shakes
have resisted storm damage better than most roofing materials (15). Asphalt
shingles have performed poorly in most instances, although much of this is
believed due to a lack of good fastening techniques used. Information on a
variety of types of covers and what constitutes good fastening for the roof
covering is detailed in Reference (15). In both the U. S. and Australia,
experience has shown that metal roof cladding has proved to be least acceptable
and has failed in numerous instances. Again, though, the probable cause was
the lack of proper fastening procedures of the metal roofing to the roof system.

Should a metal roof be used, Reference (14) can provide criteria for fastening
the roof in,place. Proper roof cover fastening for timber roof systems is
covered in Reference (15).

Large overhangs (eaves) are a major cause of roof failures also. Eaves
should extend out from the building a minimum distance necessary to provide
drainage. Proper shading from the sun can be provided by shutters or awnings
designed to be bolted down during storms.

Doors, Garage_Doors

Any doors to be used in hurricane-prone zones should be structurally
checked for adequacy to withstand design loading by a professional engineer
or architect, or be certified by the seller as to strength under a given
,design wind load. This is especially true of garage doors, as experience
has noted numerous failures of typical metal and wood overhead sliding doors.
A typical mode of failure noted in overhead garage doors is that the wind
causes the inadequately-braced door to buckle, thereby allowing the garage
door rollers to come out of their tracks with a consequent total failure of the
system. Projected missiles are also of considerable danger in a hurricane.
Both doors and garage doors should be of adequate strength to prevent damage
due to flying objects such as 2"W's or tree limbs.

Additional failures to both garage and normal doors occur due to poor
attachment to the framing. Usually a door is connected by two hinges and a
lock. Additional fi"xtures such as dead bolts can be fastened onto the framing
for use during hurricanes, thereby providing additional rigid connection to
the house framing. Note that these should be emplaced on the outside of the
house since the owners of the house will usually leave the home during a
severe hurricane warning.

Garage doors can have simi'lar connections made depending on the type of
door to be used. Again, due to the importance of doors in providing both
protection to the interior and preventing w,ind-blown water damage, it is
desirable to have these features checked for their structural adequacy by a
professional engineer or architect where building codes are lacking.

Windows, Glass, Glazing, and Hurricane Shutters

Due to numerous window failures in past h urricanes, the South Florida
Building Code (SFBC) adopted regulations concerning the fastening of windows
to wall frames to ensure against the windows pulling out. This code similarly
limits both the size and spacing of windows in structures and the type of
glass to be used. The Metropolitan Dade County Building and Zoning Department
spectfies that such products must be tested by a testing laboratory to SFBC
design loads as a code requirement. The Building Department maintains a
listing of approved products which meet SFBC specifications and will with-
stand high winds (120 mph, according to SFBC) provided the window systems,are
framed and fastened in accordance with the SFBC.

No window is safe from projected missiles such as tree limbs or similar
storm debris. For this reason, it is suggested that storm shutters of
adequate strength to prevent missile damage be used with all window systems.
Reference (3) notes the following:

"Storm shutters, particularly where constructed according to established
standards, can be of definite value in minimizing.glass breakage. For dwell-
ings, the combination awning pull-down type offers ease of operation with
reasonable possibilities of protection . . . The development of pull-down,
roll-down, or curtain-type shutters for smaller openings appears worthy of
careful consideration."

Additional damage due to wind-blown water during hurricanes can be,
prevented by insuring that good caulking practice is used around the window
system.

The South Florida Building Code provides a very good guide in the area
of windows and glazing to be used. Information on properly-tested products
can be obtained from the Dade County Building and Zoning Department.

Landscaping and Siting

Proper landscaping and siting of a home can be of great value to a home-
owner as a protective measure.

Shelterbelts of trees provide some protection against the wind if planted
dense enough to break the wind force. In some studies (14, 24) it has been
found that tree cover can provide 10-20 percent reduction in wind speeds.
Trees though, can also be detrimental if not sufficiently strong to withstand
wind forces or if not pruned adequately to get rid of weak or dead limbs.
Dead tree limbs projected by the wind are found to be a significant cause of
home damage. Therefore, it is best to do a pruning prior to hurricane season.
Also it is a good idea to tie down any trees with shallow root systems by
using cables tied to the tree trunk and staked to the ground. If planting
trees for a shelterbelt, use those trees with deep root systems.

Likewise, the more exposed the house, the higher the winds it will
experience. Siting a house behind a sand dune on a pole-type frame is
preferable to building on the dune, even if the final floor elevation is at
the same height. This is because the dune will deflect the winds upward and
also reduce wind speeds somewhat.

The home closest to the coast or bay may provide the best scenic view,
but from a protection standpoint, has the worst exposure to severe weather.
Usually the greatest damage from winds is found in the first row (most exposed)
of homes. Of course, this is self evident for water and wave damage also.
As wind speeds are significantly reduced when wind passes over land, as opposed
to water, it pays to construct as far away from the water as is reasonable.

Vegetation prevents sand from blowing and therefore causing either wind-
blown sand abrasion damage, loss of foundation material (scour), or a buildup
of sand against a wall causing additional structural loading that the house
was not designed for. Providing good vegetation to hold sand in place during
high winds should be on a coastal homeowner's checklist.

As mentioned earlier, exposure to higher winds increases with height.
It is, therefore, good to keep as low a profile as possible and yet be above
storm tide design level.

VI. SUMMARY

The following items provide a checklist for home builder or home buyer
considerations when building in the high-hazard coastal area:

1. Check to see if your area is covered by adequate building codes.
Find out what important provisions have been put into the code
to protect you from wind or water damage due to poor construction
practices.

2. Find out what design flood levels are for your area. You must
again decide whether you wish to be more conservative than the
local regulations provide for.

3. Find out what design wind loads are for your area. You must
again decide whether you wish to be more conservative than the
local regulations provide for.

4. Consider the details'. The large majority of homes experience
minor hurricane damage due to some small overlooked portion of
design. With the material and references provided in this
report, you should be able to check over many of these details
yourself and either change the plans if you are building a home,
or modify the existing structure in case you are buying an
existing home.

5. Have a design professional check out your home plans and certify
them as adequate to withstand your specified hazard designs or
his recommended designs. If you are buying a home, have him
check out the home for possible modifications to make it struc-
turally sound against wind or water.

REFERENCES

1. Federal Register - March, 1975, Department of Housing and Urban Development
Federal Insurance Administration, National Flood Insurance Program.

2. "Wind Forces on Structures", ASCE (American Society of Civil Engineers),
Transactions, Paper No. 3269, 1961.

3. Florida Hurricane Survey Report, 1965, authorized report of the State
Treasurer and Insurance Commissioner, State of Florida.

4. "Wind and Surge Damage Due to Hurricane Camille", by H. C. S. Thom and
R. D. Marshall, Journal of Waterways and Harbors, and Coastal
Engineering Division, ASCE, May, 1971.

5. "Hurricanes of the Texas Coast - Description and Climatology", Texas
A & M University SG Report TAMU-SG-75-501 by W. K. Henry and J. P.
McCormack, March, 1975.

6. Storm Tides in Florida as Related to Coastal Topography, by P. Bruun,
T. Y. Chiu, F. Gerritsen, and W. H. Morgan, Coastal Engineering
Laboratory Bulletin Series No. 109, January, 1962.

7. "Guidelines for Identifying Coastal High Hazard Zones", Galveston
District Corps of Engineers, Galveston, Texas, June, 1975.

8. The Lubbock Storm TTU SRR 03 May 11, 1970, Response of Structural Systems
to the Lubbock Storm, Texas Tech. University, Department of Civil
Engineering, Lubbock, Texas 79409, October, 1971.

9. Coastal Construction Setback Line by J. A. Purpura and W. M. Sensabaugh,
Marine Advisory Program Publication SUSF-SG-74-002.

10. South Florida Building Code, Dade County Commissioners, Dade County,
Florida.

11. (Southern) Standard Building Code - Southern Building Code Congress
International, Inc., 3617 Eighth Avenue, South, Birmingham, Alabama.

12. Building Practices for Disaster Mitigation, Building Science Series No.
46, U. S. Department of Commerce, National Bureau of Standards.

13. American National Standard - Building code requirements for minimum
design loads in buildings and other structures, American National
Standards Inst., Inc., 1430 Broadway, New York, New York, 10018.

14. Report on Cyclone "Tracy", Vols. I, II, III, by G. R. Walker, Department
of Civil Engineering, James Cook University of North Queensland,
Australia, March, 1975. (Report can be obtained from Department
of Housing and Construction, 17 Yana Street, Hawthorn, Victoria,
P. 0. Box 2807AA, Melbourne, Victoria 3001.)

15. "Houses Can Resist Hurricanes", U. S. Forest Service Research Paper FPL 33,
August, 1965, by L. 0. Anderson, Walton R. Smith, Forest Products
Laboratory, Madison, Wisconsin.

16. "How to Build Storm-Resistant Structures", Southern Pine Association, P. 0.
Box 52468, New Orleans, Louisiana 70150.

17. FHA Pole House Construction - Second Edition, PBB., American Wood Preservers
Institute, 1651 Old Meadow Road, McLean, Virginia 22101.

18. Pole Building Design PBA., American Wood Preservers Institute, 1651 Old
Meadow Road, McLean, Virginia 22101.

19. Wood Preserving - magazine of American Wood Preservers Institute

January, 1970 - "Hurricane Hexed"
December, 1969 - "Pressure Treated Pole Frame Buildings Survive
- Hurricane Camille"
October, 1969 - "Pressure Treated Timber Survives Hurricane Camille"
July, 1970 - "Unique Elevated Pole House"
October, 1970 - "Hurricane House"

20. Manual on Construction of Elevated Structures, American Institute of
Architects, (to be published in 1976).

21. Construction, Principles, Materials, and Methods, American Savings and
Loan Institute Press, Chicago, Illinois.

22. "Hurricane Camille - An Examination of Wood Design and Construction
Practices", American Plywood Association.

23. "Plywood Diaphragm Construction", American Plywood Association, 1119 A Street,
Tacoma, Washington 98401.

24. "Effect of Trees on Wind Movement", (File letter provided courtesy of
F. Escoffier).

MOBILE HOME CONSTRUCTION AND SAFETY

In the Commonwealth of Virginia, mobile home construction and safety
standards are governed by the "Virginia Industrialized Building Unit and
Mobile Home Safety Regulations - Part One". These regulations contain
mandatory mobile home tie-down provisions.

The American Red Cross estimates that an average of 1,165 mobile homes
are destroyed and an additional 1,000 are damaged each year due to winds.
Especially vulnerable are mobile homes which have not been anchored.
A recent study concluded that considerably less than 50 percent of the
occupied mobile homes throughout the country have been tied down, notwith-
standing mandatory State and local tie-down ordinances.

Disaster assistance can help repair or replace damaged units; insurance
can compensate for incurred losses. Neither assistance nor insurance, however,
can save lives or actually protect the unit from damage or destruction. Only
effective enforcement of the State-enacted tie-down law can do that.

General ranges of windspeed at which different types of mobile home
damage typically occur are as follows:*

9 At windspeeds below 50 mph, only minor damage to weak attachments
and loose elements (especially at the eaves), and minor damage due
to roof peeling, small debris, or sliding off the piers should
occur.

* At windspeeds between 50 and 70 mph, minor damage is more likely
and major damage can occur, including complete loss of the roof,
attendant wall damage or collapse, and over-turning of the home.
In this windspeed range, tie-downs are very effective in pre-
venting damage, and injuries are rarely serious.

9 At windspeeds between 70 and 100 mph, severe damage and destruction
of mobile homes is common. Destruction occurs most often by over-
turning, vaulting, or tossing of homes that are not properly tied
down. Thus, tie-downs are very important in preventing damage and
injuries. Mobile homes that are tied down can fail also, however,
either by giving way of the tie-down system or failure of a major
portion of the superstructure, such as a wall or roof. In fact,
if only the underframe is tied down, the entire superstructure
may be torn away.

a At windspeeds in excess of 100 mph, it is unlikely that a mobile
home will survive without serious damage unless it is tied down
well and has a favorable combination of the factors mentioned
earlier, such as heavy, strong construction, a rough surrounding
terrain, and effective shielding from nearby trees or buildings.
Mobile homes are simply not designed to resist windspeeds in this
range, either structurally or in terms of tie-downs, so survival

of such winds is highly uncertain. In fact, the hurricane-resistant
design pressures of current standards correspond only to 88 mph
windspeeds (at 30 feet in open terrain).

Based on the above information, it is recommended that local governments
take the following actions on a continuing basis:

a Rigorously enforce current design and construction standards for
mobile homes.

* Frequent inspection of mobile home parks and individual mobile home
sites to ensure compliance with mandatory mobile home tie-down
regulations.

9 All occupants of mobile homes, even with tie-downs, should be prepared
to evacuate their homes in favor of a more substantial structure or
shelter anytime a severe thunderstorm, hurricane, or tornado warning
is issued for their immediate vicinity. These storms are all capable
of producing windspeeds that can cause major damage and severe injury
or death (above 70 mph). Of course, hurricanes and tornadoes are more
likely to bring such extreme winds, but severe thunderstorms can also
produce these winds.

# Each mobile home park should be required to have a severe windstorm
warning signal and a shelter or other structure usable as a shelter
within easy reach (2-3 blocks) of every mobile home. These shelters
can normally be designed as functional spaces, such as recreation or
laundry rooms.

*Source: An Engineering Analysis: Mobile Homes in Windstorms by W. Pennington
Vann and James R. McDonald, February 1978, Institute for Disaster Research,
Texas Tech University.

BUILDING CONSTRUCTION CHECKLIST FOR
THE VIRGINIA COAST AND SHORELINE*.

Prospective buyers or current owners of shore property naturally are concerned
about the specialized problems involved in shore area construction. This checklist
summarizes a number of items of importance in evaluating the effects of predictable
storm forces and long-term erosion. The list includes most major concerns but is
not exhaustive. Before becoming committed to any major expenditures, a competent
professional engineer experienced in shore area design and construction should be
retained and requested to supply satisfactory answers to the following questions.
Yes No I. LOCATION
A. BEACH ACCESS. Does the structure block access to public
beaches? Does the structure violate open beach provisions
of Virginia law?

B. DUNE PROTECTION. Has care been taken to protect any dunes
7 F@ and their vegetation? Have the requirements of State Sand
Dune Protection legislation been met? If the structure is
a multiple-unit dwelling, motel, or subdivision, has a
single joint access route or walkway to the beaches been
planned?

C. ZONING REGULATIONS. Does the building and building site
plan conform to city and county zoning regulations regard-
ing type of structure, location with respect to dunes and
water, and other provisions of applicable zoning laws?
(Check with your contractor or local building inspector
to be sure.)

D. BUILDING PERMITS. Have the necessary city or county build-
ing permits been obtained? Have requirements of local
utility districts, if any, been met? Does the structure
involve construction in wetland or in navigable waters and
require a permit from the U. S. Army Corps of Engineers or
the Virginia Marine Resources Commission?
E. EVACUATION ROUTE. Does the building site have an adequate
means of evacuation in the event of a hurricane? Is the
elevation of the evacuation route higher than the expected
storm tide elevations? Road elevation information is
available from city, county and State Department of Highways
and Transportation.

F. INSURABILITY. Have the requirements and recommendations of
insurance companies been checked pertaining to minimum floor
elevation and structural requirements to assure insurability?

Yes No

G. OWNERSHIP. Has particular attention been paid to boundaries
between State-owned and p*rivately-owned lands, especially on
waterfront structures? If in doubt, check with local govern-
ment.

II. ELEVATION, EROSION AND SUBSIDENCE
F@ El A. CONSTRUCTION WITHIN FLOOD PLAIN. Is the building within a
designated flood plain area? Have city, county, and other
applicable flood levels been checked? Have requirements
and recommendations of applicable flood plain code require-
ments been met? (Consult your local city or county build-
ing inspector.)
F-1 F@ B. STORM TIDE ELEVATION. Has the elevation of the 100-year
storm ti-de (or flood plain) been determined and compared
with the existing ground elevation at this building site?
Contact local building inspector.
F-1 F-1 C. FLOOR ELEVATION. If this location is subject to flooding
during the 100-year storm,is the lowest habitable floor
raised above the top of the highest storm wave cresting
on the 100-year storm tide?

D. EROSION PREVENTION. Have measures been taken to prevent
F-1 0 erosion due to wind and flood water runoff, including
provision for adequate natural or plarrted vegetation?
F-1 F@ E. WHEN EROSION OCCURS. Should storm scour or erosion occur,
is the foundation still adequate to support gravity and
wind loads on the structure? (See Section IV, Foundation
Design.)

F. SUBSIDENCE. Does the location have a history of ground
F-1 17 subsidence or sinking? If so, has this been taken into
account in design, access, and hurricane evacuation
routes? Have measures been taken to prevent subsidence
in likely areas?

III. WIND LOAD DE SIGN

A. 100-YEAR WIND SPEED. Has the wind velocity for a 100-year
storm been found for this building site?
F-1 El B. FRAME DESIGN. Is the structural frame designed to with-
stand at least a 100-year storm wind with an adequate
safety factor?
17 F-1 C. ELEMENT DESIGN. Is each element of the building designed
to withstand both pressure and suction forces associated
with at least a 100-year storm wind while remaining
attached to the building?

Yes No

D. SHAPE FACTOR. Has the effect of shape factors and roof
slope been accounted for when calculating wind pressure
and suction?

IV. FOUNDATION DESIGN
F7 A. WAVE FORCES. If the building is located within a flood plain,
has the foundation been designed to withstand wave forces and
battering action from floating debris?

B. EROSION. Has the foundation been designed to adequately
1-1 F7 withstand the effect of erosion or scour due to wind and
water runoff? A structure built on pilings and properly
anchored is generally much less susceptible to severe
storm damage than a structure built on a slab foundation.

C. PILE FOUNDATION. If a pile foundation is used, are pilings
driven deep enough below the scour zone to resist forces
due to design or possible higher occurring wind pressures
and wave forces after scouring has taken place? Knowledge
of the nature and character of the soil under the structure
is necessary to make this determination.

D. PILE SPACING. Are the piles or other foundations spaced
widely enough apart to allow free flow of flood water run-
off and withstand the effects of storm scour and erosion?

E. CORRISION RESISTANCE. Have pilings been properly treated to
prevent damage due to constant moisture, salt water, marine
borers and rot?

V. WOOD-FRAME BUILDING CONSTRUCTION

A. SILL PLATE. Are sill plates securely attached to foundation
by means of anchor bolts (or metal straps in the case of
pile foundations) to resist uplift and lateral forces caused
by design wind pressures?

B. WALL CONNECTIONS. Are wall studs securely attached to sill
plates and top plates?

C. ROOF. Are rafters and joists securely attached to top
plates?

D. HURRICANE STRAPS. Are metal hurricane straps used?
These straps are highly recommended on all coastal con-
struction.

E. CONTINUOUS CONNECTION. Have metal straps been provided to
insure a positive, continuous connection from the foundation
to the structural members of the roof?

Yes No

F. MEMBER DESIGN. Have floor, roof and wall members been designed
to carry additional loads due to higher design wind pressures?

G. CONNECTION DESIGN. Are member connections and fasteners ade-
quate to carry loads from high-design wind velocities estab-
lished for the area?

H. WALL BRACING. Is diagonal wall bracing or properly-attached
F7 7 plywood wall sheathing provided to resist high lateral loads
on the structure?

1. CORROSION. Are bolts, straps, plates, nails, and all other
metal fasteners hot-dip galvanized or otherwise protected
from corrosion?

VI. CONCRETE BLOCK BUILDING CONSTRUCTION

A. DESIGN. Has the structure been designed by a registered
professional engineer to resist pressures and suction
forces due to design wind velocities established by the
city or county, or possible higher storm velocities?

B. VERTICAL WALL REINFORCEMENT. Has vertical reinforcing steel
and concrete been provided at corners, openings, and at
regular intervals along walls without openings?

C. BOND BEAM. Has a properly-designed reinforced concrete
bond beam, which will resist uplift forces, been provided
at the top of the wall, continuously around the structure?

D. ROOF ANCHORS. Has the roof system been securely anchored
to the bond beam to resist uplift forces due to design wind
velocities?

E. TIE TO FOUNDATION. Has'vertical wall reinforcement been
adequately tied to the foundation and to the bond.beam to
form a continuous tie from the foundation to the roof?

VII. ROOF, SIDING AND TRIM
17 7 A. ROOFING SYSTEM. Can you determine if the roofing system
which is being used has been adequate in previous high-wind
situations?

B. BUILT-UP ROOF. Are all layers properly adhered to previous
layers and to the structural roof itself? Has loose gravel
been eliminated from the roofing system to avoid damage to
windows and other structures during high wind?

C. SHINGLES. Has shingle exposure been decreased and fasteners
added to reduce high uplift pressure on roofs?

Yes No

D. SECURELY ATTACH CORNERS AND EDGES. Have the corners and edges
F-1 1-1 of shingl.es, roofing material, siding, and any other building
elements been securely attached to prevent loosening during
high winds?
F-1 El E. ROOF PANELS. If roof panels are used, have they been securely
attached to the structural frame to resist design uplift
pressures?
F@ F@ F. WALL SIDING. Has a type of wall siding been used which can
be affixed to provide enough strength to withstand design
wind velocities?
F-1 F-1 G. SHUTTERS. Have shutters been provided for all glass openings
and any other opening which may need protection from high
winds? Are shutters such a type that can be installed quickly
and easily?

VIII. UTILITIES
F-1 F-1 A. TELEPHONE AND ELECTRICAL. Has all wiring been encased in a
non-corrosive, watertight conduit? Are all conduits placed
in such a manner as to avoid damage due to flooding, erosion,
and floating debris? Have junction boxes and breaker boxes
been located above flood level and in a place not subjected
to driving rain?

B. WATER & SEWERAGE. Are all water and sewerage lines constructed
7 F1 of a non-corrosive material and located to avoid damage and
contamination due to flooding, erosion, and floating debris?

IX. QUALITY ASSURANCE
F@ F-1 A. PLANS AND SPECIFICATIONS. Does the contractor have a complete
set of detailed construction drawings and specifications which
cover all aspects of construction?

B. CONTRACTOR. Is the contractor qualified and experienced in
coastal construction?

C. INSPECTION. -Have arrangements been made to have a qualified
registered professional engineer inspect the construction of
the building? Have building code regulations been checked
for the necessity of required building inspections?

*
SOURCE: In the compilation of this Check List, material was extracted from the
following documents:
1. "Building Construction on Shoreline Property - A Check List", by C. A. Collier,
Marine Advisory Program, Florida Cooperative Extension Service, University of
Florida, Gainsville, Florida.
2. "Building Construction Check List for the Texas Coast and Shoreline", Texas
Coastal and Marine Council, Austin, Texas, in cooperation with Goldston
Engineering, Inc., Corpus Christi, Texas.

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VI. LAND-USE MANAGEMENT
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LAND-USE MANAGEMENT

The concept of land-use management is to utilize hazardous areas in ways
whi"ch w-i'll mfni'mize unecomomi'c risk of losses to property and life. Land-use
management can be accompli'shed through governmental regulation, the most
common bei,ng natural protection and zoni,ng ordinances.

Protection of Sand Dunes

Sand dunes and beaches serve as buffers against coastal storms. In some
places dunes and beaches have been built artificially. In others, the natural
protection has been supplemented with additional sand, and in still other
cases, steps have been taken simply to stabilize and protect the natural
features.

The Virgini*a General Assembly recognized the importance of coastal primary
sand dunes wi,th their unique physiographic features which, in their natural
state, serve as protective barriers from the effects of flooding and erosion
caused by coastal storms, thereby protecting life and property; that such
dunes provide an essential source of natural sand replenishment for beaches
and an important natural habitat for coastal fauna, and are important to the
overall scenic and recreational attractiveness of Virginia's coastal area.

The General Assembly recognized further that inappropriate development
on coastal primary sand dunes can destroy vegetati,on which stabilizes such
features, alter the natural contour of these sand dunes, impede their natural
formation and migratton and interrupt wi*nd and water currents which replenish
the sand supply of beaches. Such alterations to coastal primary sand dunes
may lead to increased shoreline erosion, coastal flooding, damage to fixed
structures near the shore, loss of publi,c and private open space, loss of
wildli-fe habitat and increased expenditure of public funds.

In vi-ew of the above fi-ndings, the 1980 General Assembly passed the
Coastal Primary Sand Dune Protecti-on Act (Sections 62,1-13.20:1 through
62.1-13,20:8, Code of Virgini,a). The principal features of the Act are as
follows:

9 Empowers certain localities (Accomack, Lancaster, Mathews, Northampton
and Northumberland counties and cities of Hampton, Norfolk and Virginia
Beach) to adopt the Coastal Primary Sand Dune Model Ordinance that is
set out i'n the statute.

9 Requires disturbance of primary sand dunes (those contiguous to mean
high water) to be approved at the local and/or State level, after
public hearings and in accordance with guidelines promulgated by the
Vfrginia Marine Resources Commission (,VMRC), under an application
and permit system.

* Specifi,es activities that would still be allowed without a permit
(,,e.g., planting beach grasses and building sand fences).

e Gives localities the option to exercise permitting authority over uses
through existing wetlands boards, or to leave the permitting decision
with the VMRC.

9 Authorizes the VMRC to review and approve, disapprove or remand the
decisions of local wetlands boards.

9 Provides exempti,on for any project or development for which a valid
buildi,ng permit or final site plan approval had been issued prior to
July 1, 1980.

9 Became effective July 1, 1980.

Protection of Wetlands

The State's Wetlands Act (Section 62.1-13.1 through 62.1-13.2.0, Code of
Virginia), which was passed in 1972, provides coastal jurisdictions and the
Virgini*a Martne Resources Commission with authority to issue permits to control
development i,n tidal wetlands where certain vegetation is present.

The Act:

9 Defines wetlands as that vegetated land lying between and contiguous
to mean low,water and an elevation above mean low water equal to the
factor 1.5 times. the mean tide range at the site of the proposed
project i*n the county, city or town in question, and specifies the
vegetatton by type.

@ Requires disruption of wetlands to be approved-at the local and/or
State level, after public hearings and in accordance with guidelines
promulgated by VMRC, under an application and permit system.

a Provides a model wetlands zoning ordinance for adoption by authorized
counties., cities or towns.

a Directs the creation of local wetlands boards in those jurisdictions
which have enacted a wetlands zoning ordinance pursuant to the Act.

* Gives localities the option to exercise permitting authority over
wetlands uses through existing wetlands boards, or to leave the
permi*tting decision with the VMRC.

* Authorizes the VMRC to review and approve, disapprove or remand the
decisions of the local wetlands boards.

Protection of Public Beaches

Public beaches are a rare and valuable resource; however, beaches are
eroding, thereby diminishing recreational, aesthetic and economic benefits
associated with these areas. In an effort to conserve and protect public
beaches, the General Assembly enacted the Public Beach Conservation and
Development Act in the 1980 legislative session (adds Sections 10-215 through
10-222, Code of Virginia). This Act:

* Creates a Commission on Conservation and Development of Public Beaches
with nine members (five at large, four from State agencies).

* Permits establishment of a fund to make grants to localities for up to
half the cost of erosion control on public beaches. The other half of
the cost must come from local funds, not federal. Only 30 percent of
the funds could go to any one locality in a single year.

# Requires localities to establish local Erosion Advisory Commissions
before they are eligible for any State funds.

Erosion Abatement

Other legislative actions taken in 1980 to control erosion of coastal
property are outlined below:

A. Amend and reenact Section 15.1-31, Code of Virginia, pertaining to
the constructi,on of dams, levees and seawalls:

e Allows the State to build dams and seawalls or to dredge to
prevent erosion.

0 Declares the design, construction, performance, maintenance and
operation of any such works to be a proper governmental function
for a publi-c purpose..

9 Provides that erosion due to a State activity may be a "taking"
of private land requi*ring compensation.

B. Amends Sections 21-11.18 and 21-11-19 and adds Section 21-11.20,
Code of Virgi,nia, concerning the responsibilities of the Soil and
Water Conservation Commission:

a Establishes a Shoreline Erosion Advisory Service within the Soil
and Water Conservation Commission to assist private property
owners in addressing tidal shoreline erosion problems.

e Directs the Commission to cooperate with Virginia Institute of
Martne Science (VIMS) in providing shoreline erosion advisory
services.

* Deletes the Commission's authority over public beaches.

C. Amend and reenact Section 28.1-195, Code of Virginia, setting out
the responsibilities of the Virginia Institute of Marine Sciences
(-VIMS) :

9 Directs VIMS to engage in research and provide training, technical
assistance and advice to the Commission on Conservation and
Development of Public Beaches on erosion along tidal sh9relines,
the Soil and Water Conservation Commission on matters relating
to tidal shoreline erosion, and to other agencies upon request.

The organizational relationships for the Commonwealth of Virginia Shoreline
Erosion Program are shown in Figure 1.*

Coastal Set-Back Lines

A zone at the shoreline can be delineated based on several variables such
as a one percent (1%) probability of storm surge, specific contour levels, etc.
Construction withfn a zone can be controlled or prohibited by establishing set-
back lines. A unique aspect of this measure is that it often combines ecological
as well as natural hazard considerations.

In the event local zoning regulations do not establish coastal set-back
lines, governing bodies of coastal jurisdictions should explore the practical
and legal feasibility of establishing such lines.

Recommendations

Inasmuch as all of the legislative actions discussed in this section con-
tribute to the maintenance of the shoreline, they are extremely important as
hazard mitigation measures. The following recommendations, therefore, are
offered to the governing bodies of coastal zone jurisdictions:

A. In order to reasonably protect the public interest and private and
publi-c property from erosion and flooding, and to protect the natural
environment, if not already enacted, the adoption of local ordinances
authorized by the Coastal Primary Sand Dune Protection Act and the
Wetlands Act should be expedited.

B. Conscientiously enforce the protective provisions of the ordinances.

C. For coastal localities wi'th public beaches on tidal shorelines,
establish, on a priority basis, local Erosion Advisory Commissions
in order to be eligible for State funds to assist in erosion control,
under the provisions of the Public Beach Conservation and Development
Act.

D. Where non-existent, determine the feasibility of establishing coastal
set-back lines to limit construction or other development which would
increase the vulnerability of the shoreline to hurricanes.

*Chart provided by the Office of the Secretary of Commerce and Resources,
Richmond, Virginia.

Figure 1

EROSION ABATEMENT

SECRETARY
OF
COMMERCE
AND
RESOURCES

SOIL AND WATER
DEPARTMENT OF CONSERVATION
CONSERVATION COMMISSION
AND
ECONOMIC Shoreline
DEVELOPMENT Vegetative Erosion
Research Advi@ory
Grant Service
Administrative Administration
Support

Public Localities
Beach With
Commission Grant Public
Allocation Beaches
Decisions

Technical
Advice VIRGINIA INSTITUTE
OF
MARINE SCIENCE

Public Sand Shore-
Beach Supply line
Advisor Study Advisor
T- I--F
36

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I Vii. COMMUNITY ACTION AND INDIVIDUAL, PROTECTIVE MEASURES
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COMMUNITY ACTION AND INDIVIDUAL PROTECTIVE MEASURES

Authority and Responsibility of Local Governing Bodies

The General Assembly has recognized the possibility of the occurrence of
disasters resulting from either man-made or natural causes and has made provision
for the State and its political subdivisions to deal with such emergencies by
assigning in the State Disaster Law certain emergency powers and duties to the
Governor and the elected officials of each political subdivision, by establish-
ing a State Office of Emergency Services and by authorizing the creation of local
Emergency Services organizations in the political subdivisions of the State.

In recognizing that elected and appointed officials have an inherent respon-
sibility for the safety and welfare of citizens in their communities, the General
Assembly directed in the Law that each political subdivision have a Director of
Emergency Services who, in the case of a city, would be the mayor or the city
manager; and, in the case of a county, would be a member of the board of super-
visors selected by the board or the chief administrative officer. In each
instance, the Director is authorized to appoint a Coordinator of Emergency
Services with consent of the governing body. A Coordinator of Emergency Services
may also be appointed by the council of any town to insure integration of its
organizations into the county Emergency Services organization.

The Law authorizes the Director of each local Emergency Services organiza-
tion to work jointly with the public and private agencies within the State to
develop mutual aid arrangements for reciprocal assistance in case of a disaster
too great to be dealt with unassisted.

Basic Philosphy
Reasponsibility Goes With Authority

. Elected officials have legal responsibility for the safety
and welfare of their constituents.

. Emergency preparedness programs and response plans should
be maintained by every potitical subdivision. These plans
should be periodically tested, evaluated and updated.

. Local jurisdictions have the primary responsibility for
initial diaster response and must fully commit available
forces, and resources before requesting assistance.

. When disaster assistance is required by local jurisdictions,
such assistance should be requested through the State
Coordinator of Emergency Services. He is responsible for
coordinating State and Federal assistance. He will also
assist with the development of local disaster preparedness
plans and training programs upon request.

The following sections of this chapter contain recommended guidelines and
checklists for use by both local government officials and individual citizens
in lessening the impact of a major disaster, with emphasis on hurricane miti-
gation actions:

9 Public Awareness - Increased awareness of natural hazards on the part
of local citizens is essential if property losses and human suffering
from natural disasters are to be reduced. The guidelines presented
will assist those officials who are involved in planning programs to
improve the public awareness of the hurricane threat in their localities.

9 Local Officials and Citizens Guide to Evaluating Hurricane Preparedness
Plans - This self-survey will assist in evaluating and strengthening
the ability of political subdivisions to defend themselves against a
hurricane or other major coastal storm.

a Action Checklist - This survival checklist sets forth the many things
to consider before, during and after a hurricane to save lives and
protect property.

PUBLIC AWARENESS*

The Virginia coast is one of the fastest-growing parts of the State.
As mentioned in an earlier section, the population growth in this area is one
and one-half times faster than the State average.

The Virginia coast is an enjoyable and desirable place to live, work and
relax. While natural hazards do exist that can cause major loss of life and
property, it is possible to take responsible action to counter most of them.
Preventive steps can lower risks to a level at which most people believe the
benefits outweigh the risks.

Many Virginia coastal residents have never experienced a hurricane and
are often either totally unaware of the dangers or have no knowledge of the
necessary preparedness measures. The last major hurricane to hit Virginia's
coast was DONNA in 1960. Since then, many thousands of new residents have
moved into the area. Population in the particularly-exposed areas such as
Sandbridge in Virginia Beach has increased several-fold in recent years.
These residents, whose lives and property are most susceptible to destruction,
are often the least knowledgeable of potential hazards and of what preventive
steps should be taken. Experts contend that a basic awareness of the possible
dangers of hurricanes and even mini-mal individual precautions can significantly
reduce losses of property and human li,fe.

Experience with the Virginia Hurricane Preparedness Program in 1978-79
has demonstrated that responsible local government officials and the general
public are very interested in obtaining useful, simple information on hurri-
canes. This program, initiated by the State Office of Emergency and Energy
Services (OEES ), under a matching fund disaster preparedness grant from the
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), has received wide recognition not
only within the State but also with a number of Federal agencies, as well as
other coastal states.** The risk-area identification maps and survival check-
lists originally developed in 1978 and reprinted in 1979 are again being
requested by local government officials for the 1980 hurricane season.

While the State program was aimed primarily at State and local government
response to hurricane disasters, it must be recognized that a community can
never be better prepared than its individual citizens. The high hurricane
consciousness of the people along the Mississippi-Louisiana coast is believed
to have been the major factor in saving an estimated 50,000 lives from hurricane
Camille. Since public awareness and education is a keystone to preparedness, a
follow-on local awareness program to inform both present and future coastal
resi'dents of the potential of hurricanes--and how to responsibly cope with
them--would substantially lessen future losses of both life and property.

Following are recommended guidelines for use by local emergency services
directors/coordinators and other responsible local government officials in
the development and implementation of a hurricane awareness program. The guide-
lines are applicable not only to a hurricane awareness program, but also can be
used for all natural hazards to which a community may be exposed.

LOCAL HURRICANE AWARENESS PROGRAM

Getting Started

Who starts a hurricane awareness program? Who should get involved in the
initial planning efforts? Any individual or organization which identifies the
need for such a program and can garner the necessary support provides the spark.

Often the initial spark comes from a dynamic, concerned individual who is
willing to devote time and energy to getting a hazard awareness program off
the ground.

The legal question of liability for failure to notify those susceptible
to hurricane hazards can be the very spark with which to initiate an awareness
program. Try to find a sympathetic, concerned legislator or high local govern-
ing official to lend ai'd in initiating the awareness program.

Look around for other groups which might have an interest in a public
safety program and may have resources to assist you. Inform such groups of
your proposed education efforts; and these groups, in turn, could provide
support and ignite further interest.

DO,S AND DON'TS

DO - Look 6ot a dynamic and conceAned individuat, in the
pAivate ot pubtic .6 ectot, who haz the knowtedg e,
dtive, and connectioms to get an awaAene/S4 pugxam
o66 the gtound.

DO - Tty to gain the zuppoAt and invoZvement o6 aU con-
ceAned paAties ea@Lty in the p&ogAam 6o,%mutation.

DON'T - FoAget to check tocat, 6tate o,% SedeAat Zegi,6tation
which cowed give impetws to initiating an awaAenuz
pkogtam.

Setting Goals

As you begin to define the aims of your program, you must decide what
response you want to achieve through your program. Your goals might be:

a Familiarization with the local government organization for hurricane
disaster operations and recovery.

* Familiarization with, and increased response to, local warning systems.

9 Familiarization with survival checklists.

9 Familiarization with local government hurricane response plan, to
include emergency evacuation procedures, evacuation routes, location
of shelters, emergency supplies and provisions, etc.

. Importance of, and source for obtaining, special hazard insurance.

. Construction techniques to hurricane-proof homes and businesses.

. Familiarization with disaster recovery assistance programs--local,
state, federal.

DOS AND DON'TS

DO - Define the communition or areas, of your jurisdiction
which are at risk to hurricane hazards.

DO - Determine what measures are available to lessen the
risk and what responses you wish to encourage through
your program.

DO - Define yout target audiences (social, economic,
locational, etc. ) and tailor your messages to them.

DO - Be realistic in setting your initiaa goals.

DON'T - Assume that distributing information will by itself
change people's actions.

Gathering Resources

Once you have decided to begin a hurricane awareness program, where do
you obtain money and resources to get started?

Funding

Federal, state and local government entities may have funds for awareness
programs. On the federal level, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA),
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), United States Geological
Survey (USGS), and the United States Army Corps of Engineers (USCE) are among
those which have assisted in the past.

On the state level check with your Regional Planning District, Office of
the Secretary of Commerce and Resources, and the State Office of Emergency
and Energy Services.

On the local level check city or county planning agencies, universities,
public utilities, and any special water, urban drainage or special districts
as sources of possible funding assistance.

Support Services

There are resources which can be tapped to contribute time, skill or service,
as well as money to your awareness program.

Federal and state governmental agencies listed under Funding, above, can
furnish data, maps, slides, photographs and specialists to provide technical
assistance.

In addition to government resources, there are private and community
resources.

a Insurance agents can be approached to use their contacts to distribute
information about hazards and possible protection.

a Banks and savings and loans can encourage hazard mitigation activities
to protect their mortgages and loans.

0 Owners of local businesses and industrial plants may be interested in
helping financially with warning systems or in distributing information
which would protect their customers and alleviate potential liabilities.

Take advantage of the special skills of concerned citizens. Do not forget
to involve and mobilize existing volunteer groups. If they are given accurate
information and appropriate roles, volunteer groups or individuals can play a
large part in generating hazard awareness. The organizations which might become
involved are varied:

4-H Clubs
Amateur Radio Clubs (,RACES - Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Service)
American Association of Retired Persons
Girl Scouts
Boy Scouts
Sierra Club
Volunteer Action Centers
League of Women Voters
Civic and Business Clubs
Agricultural and Marine Extension Agents
Community Colleges and Universities
Structural Engineering Societies
Religious Organizations

The Red Cross, although a volunteer agency, plays an official role in
disaster preparedness and relief and should also be contacted as a resource
and for coordination of efforts.

DOS AND DON'TS

DO - Check with all relevant government entities when
attempting to find funding and other support for
hazard awareness programs.

DO - Approach local businesses and industry to gain
their support. They have an interest in safe-
guarding the lives and property of their
employees and citizens.

DON'T - Forget to include volunteer organizations, when
seeking resources for your program. Carefully
match the skills of each potential contributor
to appropriate roles in the program.

Getting the Program Across

What techniques or approaches can be used to disseminate the information
developed for the awareness program to the citizens?

A hurricane awareness program is necessary, because most people do not
perceive the threat of danger from hurricanes as a real problem, especially
new residents on the coast or those who have never felt the effects of a major
hurricane.

Research has shown that for issues in which an individual feels little
real involvement, the message is best communicated by using primarily visual
media which require minimal attention and effort to be understood. For this
reason, your efforts will probably have a better effect through television
and newspaper exposure than if presented on the radio. Ultimately, if one
form of media is resistant or seems not to produce the desired results, go
to other forms. When your program begins to get attention of the public,
other media forms will usually pick it up.

Options for getting the word to the people include:

Television
Radio
Newspapers
Slide Shows
Films
Speakers Bureaus
Local Magazines (Chamber of Commerce, real estate, etc.)
Brochures
Billboards
Interpersonal Contacts
Public School Education

In the event of a hurricane threat, it will be important for all media to
be familiar with the community's hurricane response plans, A briefing for the
media should be arranged by the local emergency services coordinator. This
would provide a unique opportunity to educate the media not only about their
crucial role during times of hurricane emergency, but also about the potential
role they could play in informing the people of actions that could be taken to
lessen the effects of future disasters.

Newspapers. If you can convince newspapers to use your materials, they
can be a very effective means of reaching the citizen at risk. Provision of
camera-ready preparedness checklists or ads giving an address on how to obtain
further information are usually well received by newspaper editors. Pictures
(WO black and white glossies) showing past hurricanes with a brief descriptive
text might be used, especially if they are keyed to the local area.

At the beginning of hurricane season newspapers should be requested to
run a full-page reproduction of the Hurricane Risk Area Maps and Checklist
developed for your jurisdiction under the State Hurricane Preparedness Program.
Some newspapers will do this as a community service at no charge.

A series of articles could also be developed concentrating on various
aspects of the hurricane--its general characteristics and means of destruction,
areas most vulnerable, increased population and development in these areas,
current construction practices, effects of the hazard on state or local industry
or tourist business, warning techniques and preparedness steps.

Television. Studies have shown that television (especially 10, 30, or 60
second spots) may be the way to change people's opinions on the dangers of
various hazards. In addition, spots can give an address where further information
(maps, brochures) can be obtained. If recorded spots are to be distributed to
TV or radio stations, a written script should accompany each one. Another option
existing for TV includes the use of longer documentary films. Permission can
usually be obtained from appropriate government or volunteer agencies (Red Cross)
to use film clips from their products. For TV use, any message should be
especially simple and easily understood. Remember that if used at all, spots.
and films released for public-service TV time will more than likely be aired
during non-prime time hours (early in the morning or late at night). In the
case of weather-related hazards, your local TV weatherperson can be a valuable
contact for dissemination of information.

Live or taped interviews also provide a good means of presenting hazard
information to the public. Again, personal contact is more likely to get your
representative on local talk shows. In doing interviews with the news media,
whether printed or broadcast, be sure that your spokesperson has all the
necessary facts regarding preparedness and hazard characteristics. An information
sheet should be provided to the reporter or interviewer in advance to aid them
in asking relevant questions.

Provision of camera-ready material, including slides to local TV weather-
persons for use during their regular weathercasts, has proven to be a successful
approach. A script or descriptive text should always accompany each slide.

Radio. Even though radio may not be the most effective way to reach all
sectors of the population, there may be some people for whom it is a useful
method, e'.g., teenagers or for populations in remote areas. Your options for
radio include spots of varying lengths, one-shot interviews with knowledgeable
people, or a continuing taped seri"es providing information on hurricane hazards.
These approaches can be ends in themselves or they can act as stimulants to get
people to write or call a specific place for further information.
'Alternative Approaches

Brochure. A single, simple, but attractive "preparedness and awareness"
brochure may be the best first step in increasing the awareness of your citizens.
A brochure is usually the least expensive type of material to develop and pro-
duce, especially if you are attempting to reach a very large audience and have
limited funds.

Display Booths. Display booths that could be easily set up in shopping
areas or civic centers could be used as a relatively cheap tool for communicating
hurricane awareness information. The displays could use video cassette players,
slides or photographs. Simple, graphic messages are most effective. You should
include handouts that contain specific suggestions for constructive personal
actions.

Public Meetings. Attendance at public meetings to discuss hurricane
hazards will, of course, be difficult to encourage in the early part of your
program. A useful approach is to work through civic or volunteer groups that
might allow you to take advantage of their regular meetings and present your
message. Perhaps a parent/teacher organization of a school in a vulnerable
location would welcome a speaker at their monthly meeting. The Chamber of
Commerce might be interested in a discussion of possible liabilities that
business might face if customers were exposed to a hazard while on their
property. Civic and study clubs are always on the lookout for interesting
programs. It would be useful to develop a list of knowledgeable people in
each location who would be willing and competent to speak about the hurricane
hazard at public gatherings. It is very important that the speakers chosen
be regarded by the community as having good credibility on the subject of the
hazard.

Local publications, Chamber of Commerce magazines, or real estate publi-
cations may also be glad to use your printed materials, especially if straight
information rather than scare tactics is used. However, personal contacts are
usually needed to explain the purpose of your awareness program and the materials
which are available for use.

Other Approaches. Some awareness programs have found rather unique sources
of free distribution of their information. Paper bag companies have been willing
to print information about hurricane and tornado safety at no additional cost on
bags distributed to grocery stores along the GuTf Coast and in inland tornado-
prone areas. The phone company in some parts of the United States has printed
safety tips in the front pages of phone books, including earthquake preparedness
in California and tsunami precautions in Hawaii. The City of Boulder, Colorado,
has included messages about the flood plain in its monthly water bills. Remember,
whatever approaches you try, always be open for new ideas and new interests.

Materials to Assist in Hurricane Awareness Program

The State Office of Emergency and Energy Services (OEES) Training Officer,
phone (804) 272-1441, can provide assistance in obtaining hurricane preparedness
brochures, publications, films and other audio-visual materials which have been
prepared by NOAA, FEMA, and other federal agencies.

The OEES Information Officer, phone (804) 745-3305, can provide copies of
brochures, maps and related materials developed under the State Hurricane
Preparedness Program.

DOS AND DON'TS

DO - Try to determine the most effective means of teaching
your citizens, but do not rely on only one form of
media or approach to reach them.

DO - Keep and update a file of all organizations, publica-
tions and individuals who should regularly receive
awareness materials.

DO - Use newspapers for long-term education of an audience
concerning the nature of an area's susceptibility to
hurricane hazards and to encourage readers to write
for futher information.

DO - Use short (10, 30, or 60 second) TV spots to alert
at change your audience's perception of the dangers
of, or their susceptibility to, the hurricane hazard.

DO - Cosider the use of a simple, inexpensive but attrac-
tive brochure or poster if you wish to maintain a
sustained effort and reach broad segments of the
population.

DON'T - Expect material developed for radio to have the same
impact as visual presentation, but do use it to
reach appropriate audiences.

Evaluating Your Program

Once your program is underway, it is imperative that you evaluate it.
Are you reaching your goals? Are all aspects of the program accomplishing
what you intended?

Assessment of a program can be obtained by using several different
methods such as:

. Telephone or mail surveys.

. Person-to-person interviews determining sight recognition of materials.

* Utilization of volunteers for testing various approaches and types
of materials used in your program (TV spots vs. longer films, fear
approach vs. simmple listing of preparedness steps).

Samples of evaluation questionnaires for a multi-approach hurricane
awareness program and a slide show presentation are given in Appendix B.

DOS AND DONT'S

DO - Determine which program elements are most effective.

DO - determine if your information is actually changing
attitudes and actions.

DO - Use several different approaches in determining
your program's effectiveness.

DO - Make your evaluation a continuing, regular part of
your program.

DON'T - Assume that your target audience has necessarily
altered their behavior or attitudes as a result of
your program.

*Source: A significant part of the information contained in the Section was
extracted from "Hazard Awareness Guidebook: Planning for What Comes Naturally"
by Sally S. Davenport, Texas Coastal and Marine Council, Austin, Texas; and
Penny Waterstone, Natural Hazard Research Application and Information Center,
Institute of Behavioral Science, University of Colorado, Boulder, Colorado;
October, 1979.

**See Section I for a description of the State Hurrican Preparedness Program.

APPENDIX A

SAMPLE PUBLIC QUESTIONNAIRE PRECEDING
INSTIGATION OF
HURRICANE AWARENESS PROGRAM

Name: Address:
Age: Occupation/Education Level:

1. How long have you lived on the coast?

2. Have you ever experienced a hurricane?
a) Where?
b) When?
c) Outcome?

3. Did you consider the possibilities of hurricanes before you moved here?

4. What are the first two or three things you would do to prepare for a hurricane?

5. Do you feel your home is the best place to'weather'the storm?
a) Why?
b) How would you (do you) evaluate its structural soundness?
c) How do you estimate its elevation above sea level?

6. When you were looking at your home, did anyone discuss these things with you?

7. If you wanted to know what winds your home was built to withstand, how would you
find out?

8. If the Weather Service predicted twelve foot tides for your area, what would that mean
to you personally?

9. Do you know where the nearest public shelter is? Can you get there if the streets are
under two or three feet of water?

10. How many feet of water (flood level) does it take to close the causeway to your town?

11. Where would you go if you evacuated your town?

12. Where would you go for more information on hurricane protection?

APPENDIX 8

HURRICANE INFORMATION QUESTIONNAIRE

Name -Age-Sex
Current Address Phone
Have you ever experienced a hurricane? Yes- No
If yes, was your residence damaged? Yes_ No
did you or a member of your family sustain injuries? Yes- No
did you evacuate? Yes No
Have you had any special training in hurricanes? Yes- . No
If yes, where?
If yes, where?
Did you obtain a copy of a Hurricane Survival Checklist and Map? Yes No If yes, do you still have
it? Yes- No . Did you read it? Yes- No . Row Vdid you obtain it?
Do you remember seeing any "Hurricane Awareness" television spots? Yes - No
Do you remember hearing any "Hurricane Awareness" radio spots? Yes No
SECTION ONE

Please indicate your sources of Hurricane Information. Check each of the following which apply:
I . School Classes 8. Television Presentations
2. Hurricane Survival Checklists and Maps 9. _Newspapers
3. Local Civil Defense 10. - Other People
4. Local Red Cross 11. -Mayor
S. Educational Television Programs 12. County Judge
6. -Public Meetings 13. Other. Please Identify:
7. Radio Announcements and/or Interviews
SECTION TWO

Please briefly indicate what the words "Storm Surge" mean to you (if you have no idea, put "Don't Know'):

How many feet of rising water do you believe a hurricane can produce?
What do you estimate the land elevation is at your residence?
Out of every ten persons killed by a hurricane, how many do you.estimate are killed by the rising water?
Approximately how many miles of a coastline can suffer severe damage from a hurricane?
When a hurricane hits the coast, where do you think the most destruction will take place?
Near the center of the area hit Near the edge_ The same throughout
How many miles do you live from the nearest salt water bay or coastline?
If you needed additional information on a hurricane, how would you obtain that information?

SECTION THREE
For each of the following questions, place a check mark on the line under each question at the point which you feel
most closely corresponds to your own opinion.
1. How necessary is it to purchase flood insurance?
Is Not Necessary Is Definitely Necessary

2. How necessary is it to have building codes which incorporate hurricane standards?
Is Not Necessary Is Definitely Necessary

3. If a hurricane struck one of the barrier islands on the coast, how certain is it that:
a. the homes on that island in the path of the hurricane would be destroyed?
Certain to Withstand Certain to Be Destroyed
the Hurricane by the Hurricanp

b. commercial buildings such as motels would be destroyed?
Certain to Withstand Certain to Be Destroyed
the Hurricane by the Hurricane

4. If a hurricane struck one of the Texas coastal cities, how certain is it that the homes in the path of the hurricane
would be destroyed?
Certain to Withstand Certain to Be Destroyed
the Hurricane by the Hurficane

S. If you were informed that you were in the path of a hurricane and a notice had been issued to evacuate, would
you do so?
Would Not Evacuate Definitely Would Evacuate

6. How destructive is the wind generated by a hurricane?
Is Not Destructive Is Extremely Destructive

7. How destructive is the rising water (storm surge; rising tide) generated by a hurricane?
Is Not Destructive Is Extremely Destructive

APPENDIX B (Continued)

-2-

SECTION FOUR

In the event you were to evacuate, do you have a pre-planned evacuation route? Yes No
If yes, please describe the route you would take:

In the event you must leave your home due to a hurricane threat, do you know how to learn the location of your
nearest Civil Defense or Red Cross shelter? Yes No
If yes, how would you obtain that information?

When a hurricane watch* is issued, check one of the following which would most closely describe the action you
would most likely take:

A. I would wait for further bulletins.
B. I would do nothing but remain inside the house.
C. I would board up the windows and remain Inside the house.
D. I would board up the windows, tie down loose objects, collect a supply of food and water, and wait for
further bulletins.
E. I would board up the windows, tie down loose objects, collect a supply of food and water, and prepare
to ride it out.
F. I would board up the windows, tie down loose objects, and move a short distance away from the beach
area.
G. I would board up the windows, tie down locse objects, and move to a Civil Defense or Red Cross shelter.
H. I would board up the windows, tie down loose objects, and evacuate.
1. 1 would evacuate immediately.
1. Other type of response:

When a hurricane warning" is issued, check one of the following which would most closely describe the action you
would most likely take:

A. I would wait for further bulletins.
B. I would do nothing but remain inside the house.
C. I would board up the windows and remain inside the house.
D. I would board up the windows, tie down loose objects, collect a supply of food and water, and wait for
further bulletins.
E. I would board up the windows, tie down loose objects, collect a supply of food and water, and prepare
to ride it out.
F. I would board up the windows, tie down loose objects, and move a short distance away from the beach
area.
G. I would board up the windows, tie down loose objects', and move to a Civil Defense or Red Cross shelter.
H. I would board up the windows, tie down loose objects, and evacuate.
1. 1 would evacuate immediately.
J. Other type of response:

Watch means that there is a real possibility of a hurricane striking an area.
Warning means that a hurricane is expected to hit an area within 24 hours.

Comments:

APPENDIX C

HURRICANE AWARENESS SLIDE SHOW QUESTIONNAIRE

1. Was the material presented In an understandable manner? yes- no-

2. Will the material just presented help you prepare yourselves
and your property for a hurricane? yes- no-

3. Did you loam anything now about hurricanes and how to
prepare for them? yes- no-

4. (a) Did the speaker talk loud enough? yes- no-
(b) Would you suggest another program on this subject
next yearl yes- no-

S. (a) Have you ever experienced a hurricane? yes- no-
(b) If so, when and where?
(c) Did you suffer any loss of property.) yes- no-

6. Additional comments (please be candid).

Signature not necessary,
but would be appreciated.

LOCAL OFFICIALS AND CITIZENS
GUIDE TO EVALUATING HURRICANE PREPAREDNESS PLANS

INTRODUCTION

It is human nature to assume hurricanes are disasters which strike somewhere
else. Yet, the reality is that any community along Virginia's coast is a poten-
tial hurricane target.

After every hurricane or severe coastal storm there is a recurring theme:
If only we had done more to prepare in advance . . . . Therefore, you might find
useful this self-survey which is intended to encourage coastal jurisdictions to
evaluate their own hurricane preparedness and response plans.

Hopefully, this self-survey will assist you in evaluating and strengthening
the ability of your community to defend itself against a hurricane or other major
coastal storm.

SURVEY*

Yes No I. BASIC AUTHORITY

1. Does the city or county have a disaster preparedness
ordinance or other legal authority for local officials
to conduct emergency operations, to include authority
to order evacuation?

2. Has the county or city executed an agreement or other
written understanding with the American Red Cross,
Salvation Army or other disaster relief organization,
setting forth the responsibilities for shelters and
other disaster-related activities?

3. Has the overall director/leader for each shelter,
whether Red Cross volunteers, local Emergency Services
volunteers, city personnel, etc., been designated?

4. Are the ordinances, regulations and/or plans of the
county or city consistent with the state disaster
preparedness plan?

5. Is there a coordinated and integrated regional or
area-wide evacuation and shelter plan? Have necessary
intergovernmental agreements for assistance in hurri-
cane evacuation and shelter been executed?

II. PRE-DISASTER MITIGATION

1. Are zoning requirements and limitations consistent
with anticipated storm surge?

Yes No 2. Are building standards and codes in areas vulnerable to
hurricanes adequate to withstand the effects of high
wind and storm surge? Are these standards and codes
enforced?

3. Is state and/or local mobile home tie-down legislation
adequate? Is the legislation enforced?
F@ El 4. Have communities vulnerable to flooding and storm surge
qualified for flood insurance by adopting required flood
plain management ordinances?
F-1 F-1 5. Are designated evacuation shelters above storm-surge
levels or outside storm surge areas?
F] F-1 6. Has special consideration in the development of evacua-
tion plans been given to the needs of the aged, the
handicapped and for families living in mobile homes?

7. Have key local agencies developed supplementary plans
for their own operations in the case of an evacuation
and are these plans integrated and consistent with the
overall evacuation plan?
F@ F-1 8. Are notification rosters of each agency for use to warn
of an approaching hurricane current and complete?

9. Are citizens being educated adequately on how to prepare
for and what steps to take in the event of a hurricane?

10. If vertical evacuation into high-rise buildings is
F-1 0 anticipated, have the selected structures been checked
as to soundness of construction to withstand hurricane-
force wind and storm surge? In the case of private
structures, have agreements been executed with building
owners?
F-1 El 11. Have provisions been made for cots, blankets, food and
sanitary facilities in the event that disaster victims
may need to be kept in high-rise structures for an
extended period until flood waters subside?
F@ F-1 12. Have evacuation route maps been published in the local
newspapers or widely distributed to citizens?

13. Are there any local plans for disclosing the extent and
F-1 F-1 existence of natural hazards to the public, especially
prospective new property owners?

III. POLICY DEVELOPMENT

1. Have "lines of succession" been developed for key
officials in the event some officials become casualties
or are otherwise unavailable?

Yes No

2. Has a "support group" or committee headed by the county
or city Emergency Services Director been organized with
sufficient responsibility, authority and resources to
provide personnel and materials for the implementation
of pre-planned actions, to provide coordination and
direction to personnel engaged in operations and to
provide information, data and recommendations to the
local governing body?

IV. OPERATIONS
F-1 7 1. Are procedures spelled out for officials of concerned
agencies and citizens of affected areas to be alerted
on a timely basis in the event of an approaching
hurricane?
7 F-1 2. Are warning systems for citizens adequate and are
citizens advised of the meaning of a warning by a siren?

3. Have evacuation plans been keyed to hurricane forecasting?
Upon what condition will evacuation be implemented, by
whom, and with what authority? What priorities have been
established?

4. Do plans indicate which sectors of the population will
be directed to which shelters?

5. 'Are there special provisions for handling the elderly
and handicapped?
7 F-1 6. Are key communication facilities above flood level, have
their emergency roles been defined, have they been
"exercised" and do backup facilities exist for use in
the event primary facilities are not operating?

7. Has coordination been effected with commercial radio and
television stations?
F@ 7 8. Will amateur radio resources be employed to assist in
evacuation before the hurricane strikes?

9. Has a traffic analysis been made to be sure that
evacuation routes can handle anticipated traffic volume?

10. Do all shelters have adequate sanitary facilities and
F-1 7 drinking water as well as available cots and blankets?

11. Are alternate evacuation plans available in the event
that key evacuation routes are blocked by debris or
stalled vehicles?

12. Is-the hurricane evacuation plan "exercised" periodically?

Yes No

1-1 F-I 13. Have amphibious vehicles and 4-wheel drive vehicles been
acquired, or arrangements made for use of those located
in the community owned by private citizens or businesses?

*SOURCE: Many of the questions in this check list are based on material found
in "A Public Officials and Citizens Guide to Evaluating Local
Hurricane Evacuation Plans" prepared.by the Federal Disaster Assis-
tance Administration, in consultation with Dr. Neil Frank, Director,
National Hurricane.Center, in Miami, and Bryce J. Torrence, National
Director, Disaster Services, the American Red Cross.

ACTION CHECKLIST

The following Hurricane Survival Checklist has been designed for indi-
viduals and families. It is recommended that this list, or one devised by
local government, be run in the local newspaper each year just prior to the
start of hurricane season. To ensure widest dissemination, a Survival
Checklist Brochure should be prepared for distribution at schools, shopping
centers, and other public meeting places.

HURRICANE SURVIVAL CHECKLIST*

Here is a list of the many things to consider before,
during and after a hurricane. Some of the safety
rules will make things easier for you during a hurri-
cane. All are important and could help save your
life and the lives of others.

TERMS YOU SHOULD KNOW

SMALL CRAFT CAUTIONARY STATEMENTS. When a tropical cyclone threatens a coastal
area, small craft operators are advised to remain in port or not to venture
into the open sea.

GALE WARNINGS may be issued when winds of 39-54 miles an hour (34-47 knots)
are expected.

STORM WARNINGS may be issued when winds of 55-73 miles an hour (48-63 knots)
are expected. If a hurricane is expected to strike a coastal area, gale or
storm warnings will not usually precede hurricane warnings.

A HURRICANE WATCH is issued for a coastal area when there is a threat of
hurricane conditions within 24-36 hours.

A HURRICANE WARNING is issued when hurricane conditions are expected in a
specified coastal area in 24 hours or less. Hurricane conditions include
winds of 74 miles an hour (64 knots) and/or dangerously high tides and waves.
Actions for protection of life and property should begin immediately when the
warning is issued.

BEFORE A HURRICANE HITS . . .

* You have the responsibility to prepare in advance.

9 Know your elevation.

s Know how to escape.

* Follow the survival check list.

* Get information from sources that can help you.

Local Emergency Services Director/Coordinator Phone:

Fire, Rescue, or Police Emergency Phone:

American Red Cross Phone:

Utilities (gas, water, electric) Phone:

Other:

BEFORE A HURRICANE*YOU SHOULD KNOW:

ELEVATION OF YOUR HOME ABOVE SEA LEVEL. Get this information from local
Emergency Services officials. Your nearest Weather Service office can
supply floodstage data for area streams and bayous.

MAXIMUM STORM SURGE WHICH MIGHT OCCUR. Information about the potential for
inland flooding and storm surge is available through the nearest Weather
Service office.

ROUTE TO SAFETY IF YOU HAVE TO LEAVE. Plan your escape route early.
Check with local Emergency Services for low points and flooding history
of your route.

LOCATION OF NEAREST OFFICIAL SHELTER. Local Emergency Services or Red
Cross can locate the shelter nearest your home and explain what you should
bring with you.

HOW SAFE YOUR HOME IS. Near the seashore, plan to relocate during a hurri-
cane emergency unless you live in a high-rise above the third floor level.
If you live in a mobile home, always plan to relocate.

THE INVENTORY OF YOUR PROPERTY. A complete inventory of personal property
will help in obtaining insurance settlements and/or tax deductions for
losses. Inventory checklists can be obtained from many sources, including
your insurance representative. Don't trust your memory. List descriptions
and take pictures. Store these and other important insurance papers in
waterproof containers or in your safety deposit box.

WHAT YOUR INSURANCE WILL COVER. Review your insurance policies to avoid
misunderstanding later. Take advantage of flood insurance. Separate
policies are needed for protection against wind and water damage, which
people frequently don't realize until too late.

IMPORTANT: Do not wait until a hurricane is near shore--by then it's too
late. When a storm is heading to shore, officials are too busy preparing
for the emergency and won't be able to respond to individual requests;
and insurance can't be obtained.

WHEN A WATCH IS ISSUED, CHECK SUPPLIES:

TRANSISTOR RADIO WITH FRESH BATTERIES. Radio will be your most useful informa-
tion source. Have enough batteries to last several days. There may be no
electricity.

FLASHLIGHTS, CANDLES OR LAMPS, MATCHES. Store matches in waterproof container.
Have lantern fuel for several days. Know how to use safely.

FULL TANK OF GASOLINE. Never let your vehicle gas tank be less than half-full
during hurricane season--fill up as soon as a hurricane watch is posted.
Remember, when there is no electricity, gas pumps won't work.

CANNED GOODS AND NON-PERISHABLE FOODS. Store packaged foods which can be
prepared without cooking and need no refrigeration. There may be no elec-
tricity or gas.

CONTAINERS FOR DRINKING WATER. Have clean, air-tight containers to store
sufficient drinking water for several days. The city supply will probably
be interrupted or contaminated.

MATERIALS FOR PROTECTING GLASS OPENINGS. Have shutters or lumber for pro-
tecting large windows and doors and masking tape for use on small windows.

MATERIALS FOR EMERGENCY REPAIRS. Your insurance policy may cover cost of
materials used in temporary repairs, so keep all receipts. These will also
be helpful for any income tax deductions.

WHEN A WARNING IS ISSUED, ACT PROMPTLY:

LISTEN CONSTANTLY TO RADIO OR TV. Keep a log of hurricane position, intensity
and expected landfall. Discount rumors. Use telephone sparingly.

IF YOU LIVE IN A MOBILE HOME, check tie-downs and leave immediately for a
safer place.

PREPARE FOR HIGH WINDS. Brace your garage door. Lower antennas. Be prepared
to make repairs.

ANCHOR OBJECTS OUTSIDE. Garbage cans, awnings, loose garden tools, toys and
other loose objects can be deadly missiles. Anchor securely or bring indoors.

PROTECT WINDOWS AND OTHER GLASS. Board up or shutter large windows securely.
Tape exposed glass to reduce shattering. Draw drapes across windows and
doors to protect against flying glass if shattering does occur.

MOVE BOATS ON TRAILERS CLOSE TO HOUSE. Fill boats with water to weight them
down. Lash securely to trailer and use tie-downs to anchor trailer to the
ground or house.

CHECK MOORING LINES OR BOATS IN WATER, then leave them.

STORE VALUABLES AND PERSONAL PAPERS. Put irreplaceable documents in water-
proof containers and store in highest possible spot.

PREPARE FOR TORNADOES AND FLOODS. Tornadoes and flash floods are the worst
killers associated with a hurricane. In a tornado warning, seek inside
shelter below ground level. If outside, move away at right angles from
tornado. If escape is impossible, lie flat in a ditch or low spot. The
surge of ocean water plus flash flooding of streams and rivers due to
torrential rains combine to make drowning the greatest cause of hurricane
deaths.

CHECK YOUR SURVIVAL SUPPLIES ONCE AGAIN.

IF YOU REMAIN AT HOME:

STAY INDOORS. Don't go out in the brief calm during passage of the eye of
the storm. The lull sometimes ends suddenly as winds return from the
opposite direction. Winds can increase in seconds to 75 m.p.h. or more.

PROTECT PROPERTY. Without taking any unnecessary risks, protect your property
from damage. Temporary repairs can reduce your losses.
I

STAY AWAY FROM WINDOWS AND GLASS DOORS. Move furniture away from exposed doors
and windows.

STAY ON LEEWARD OR DOWNWIND SIDE OF HOUSE. As wind direction changes, move to
another room. If your home has an "inside" room, stay there during the height
of the hurricane.

KEEP A CONTINUOUS COMMUNICATIONS WATCH. Keep radio or television tuned for
information from official sources. Unexpected changes can sometimes call for
last minute relocations.

REMAIN CALM. Your ability to meet emergencies will help others.

IF YOU MUST RELOCATE:

BE CERTAIN THERE IS A SAFE REFUGE TO ACCOMMODATE YOU--LEAVE EARLY IN DAYLIGHT
IF POSSIBLE. Dangerous winds and tides may arrive three to five hours before
the hurricane.

DON'T TRAVEL FARTHER THAN NECESSARY. Roads may be jammed. A stranded auto
may become a coffin.

LOCK WINDOWS AND DOORS. Check to see that you have done everything to protect
your property from damage and loss.

CARRY ALONG SURVIVAL SUPPLIES --

First aid kit
Canned or dried provisions, can opener, spoons, etc.
Bottled water
Extra family medication
Spare eyeglasses, hearing aid and batteries, if required

KEEP IMPORTANT PAPERS WITH YOU AT ALL TIMES --

- Driver's license and other identification
- Insurance policies
- Property inventory
- Medic-alert or device to convey special medical information

TAKE WARM, PROTECTIVE CLOTHING.

AFTER THE HURRICANE, DANGERS REMAIN:

BEWARE OF OUTDOOR HAZARDS. Watch out for loose or dangling power lines, and
report them immediately to proper authority. Many lives are lost by electro-
cution.

WALK OR DRIVE CAUTIOUSLY. Debris-filled streets are dangerous. Snakes and
poisonous insects will be a hazard. Washouts may weaken road and bridge
structures which could collapse under vehicle weight.

GUARD AGAINST SPOILED FOOD. Food may spoil if refrigerator power is off more
than a few hours. Freezers will keep food several days if doors are not
opened after power failure, but do not refreeze food once it begins to thaw.

DO NOT USE WATER UNTIL SAFE. Use your emergency supply or boil water before
drinking until official word that the water is safe. Report broken sewer or
water mains to proper authority.

TAKE EXTRA PRECAUTIONS TO PREVENT FIRE. Lowered water pressure in city mains
and the interruption of other services may make firefighting extremely difficult
after a hurricane.

@NOW, THE CLEAN-UP:

NOTIFY YOUR INSURANCE REPRESENTATIVE. Insurance representatives will be on the
,scene immediately following a major disaster to speed up the handling of claims.
Notify your insurance representative of any losses, and leave word where you
can be contacted.

TAKE STEPS TO PROTECT PROPERTY. Make temporary repairs to protect property
from further damage or looting. Use only reputable contractors (sometimes
in the chaotic days following a disaster, unscrupulous operators will prey
on the unsuspecting)--check the Better Business Bureau. Keep all receipts
for materials used.

BE PATIENT. Hardshi'p cases will be settled first by insurance representatives.
Don't assume your settlement will be the same as your neighbor's. Policy
forms differ and storm damage is often erratic. In a major catastrophe, the
insurance industry will have emergency offices and extra manpower to expedite
claim settlements and to speed recovery.

IT TA KES A TEAM EFFORT. Responsibility for the clean-up falls to numerous
local, state and federal agencies. A local Emergency Services coordinator/
director will be on hand to help residents in this effort.

*SOURCE: This checklist has been compiled from material found in:

1. Survival Checklist/Flooding Map Brochures, Texas Hurricane Awareness
Program, Texas Coastal and Marine Council, Austin, Texas, 1977.

2. Hurricane Survival Checklist, Virginia Hurricane Preparedness Program,
State Office of Emergency and Energy Services, Richmond, Virginia, 1978.

DATE DUE

GAYLORDINo. 2333 MUED ill U S i,

3 668 14107 8198