Final answer:
In the case of high winds, such as those preceding a hurricane, it's important to seek shelter, secure the area, stay informed, and be prepared for the possibility of a storm surge. Following these precautions can significantly improve safety and reduce damage.
Step-by-step explanation:
When you encounter high winds, especially those that could escalate to a hurricane, it's critical to take immediate action to ensure safety. Here are several steps you can follow:
- Seek shelter immediately in a sturdy building. Avoid mobile homes or temporary structures.
- Close all windows and doors; board them if necessary to prevent debris from breaking them.
- Secure any outdoor objects that could be picked up by the wind, or bring them inside.
- Stay tuned to local news or a weather radio for updates.
- If you're in a flood-prone area, be ready to move to higher ground due to potential storm surge.
- Consider moving to a storm shelter if your current location isn't safe.
- Do not attempt to drive or walk through floodwaters.
These steps can help minimize damage and ensure your safety. Remember, hurricanes can amplify in destructiveness due to the cubic relationship between wind speed and its power, making even a small increase in wind velocity exponentially more dangerous.