Beware of Posts Spreading Inaccurate Hurricane Preparation Information

Hurricane season can be a stressful time of year, especially for those along the Gulf coast who have experienced several severe storms in the past. While it’s good to be prepared for these storms, there have been posts circulating on social media sharing inaccurate information that could leave people thinking they’re prepared when they are really not. While these posts were likely made to try to help people, the information provided in them can do more harm than good by leaving people with a false sense of security. One of the posts being circulated is shown below, along with information about the inaccuracies. Also, keep in mind that nothing can guarantee to protect you or your belongings from a hurricane except getting out of the path of the storm.

The post has been shared in a few different forms, but this is one of the most recent versions we found.

This post is just one example of the information being shared. Names, reactions, shares, and other personal information have been redacted.

Photos Are Good but Not as Good as Receipts

The post starts by indicating photos are just as good as a receipt for insurance purposes. While it’s good to have photos, photos do not show the value, model number or age of belongings. If possible, take photos, take an inventory, and keep receipts for large purchases, and take this information with you when you evacuate.

Zello and Other Communication Apps Do Not Work if You Don’t Have Data Service

The post continues and states that you can use the Zello walkie-talkie app to communicate with friends and family if there is no phone service. This is incorrect and can leave people with a false sense of security. All communication apps require that you have a data service. Apps like Zello are useful and have assisted in the rescue of people in the aftermath of past storms, but they do not work unless your phone has data service.

Dishwashers are Built to Keep Water in, but Not All Can Keep Water Out

The last bit of the post recommends that people empty their dishwasher and put anything they want to preserve inside. Dishwashers clean dishes by spraying streams of water similar to the spray of a water hose or kitchen sink sprayer. Dishwashers are built to keep that spraying water in, but not to keep flood water out. there are also vents near the top of dishwashers to let steam out.

While there is just about nothing that can guarantee to keep your possessions dry through a hurricane or flood, placing items in containers manufactured to be waterproof is more likely to keep them dry.

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