Part 10 of our Hurricane Smart Kids series. Print this list and post it on your refrigerator.
Some things are worth memorizing — not just reading once. These 10 hurricane safety rules are ones every child should know cold, so they know exactly what to do no matter what.
Rule 1: Always Listen to the Grown-Ups in Charge
Your parents, caregivers, teachers, and emergency workers have important information and training. When they say it is time to go or time to take shelter, go and shelter. The time to ask questions is before the storm — not during.
Rule 2: Know Your Family's Safe Room
Every home has a best place to be during a hurricane: an interior room away from windows, like a bathroom or closet. Know where yours is before the storm. Practice going there.
Rule 3: Never Go Outside When the Eye Passes Over
If the storm suddenly goes calm and quiet, do not go outside. That is the eye — the storm is only halfway done. The other half is coming right behind it. Read our article on the eye of the hurricane to understand why.
Rule 4: Stay Away From Windows and Glass Doors
Hurricane winds can turn anything into a flying object. Windows and glass doors can break. Stay in interior rooms and away from anything made of glass.
Rule 5: Downed Power Lines Are Always Dangerous
After the storm, if you see a wire on the ground — stay far away and tell an adult immediately. Even if it looks still, a downed wire can be carrying deadly electricity.
Rule 6: Don't Play in Floodwater
Floodwater after a hurricane is not clean. It contains germs, sewage, and sometimes sharp objects or dangerous animals. Never wade, play, or swim in it.
Rule 7: Generators Go Outside Only
If your family uses a generator for power, it must always be outside the house — never in a garage, never inside. Generators release carbon monoxide that can make people very sick or worse.
Rule 8: Know Your Out-of-State Contact
Your family should have one person outside your area who everyone can call or text after the storm. Know that person's phone number by heart — not just saved in your phone.
Rule 9: Don't Return Until Adults Say It Is Safe
After a storm, it might look like things are calm enough to go outside or return home. Wait for an official all-clear from emergency managers. Danger is not always visible — damaged structures, hidden downed lines, and unseen flooding remain after storms.
Rule 10: You Can Always Ask for Help
If you are scared, hurt, lost, or separated from your family, you can always ask for help from a firefighter, police officer, National Guard member, or any uniformed emergency worker. It is always okay to ask for help.
Build your family's full hurricane preparedness plan: Preparedness Checklist Builder. Sign up for free storm alerts: Storm Alerts.