Get Ready!
Are you ready? June 1 means it is hurricane season, which runs through November 30. Be sure to create your family’s emergency plan. You will want to think about evacuation routes, local emergency management contacts, and creating a disaster supply kit.
You need to plan now where you and your family will go if a disaster strikes; your destination may be a hotel, another city, or a shelter. In addition, create a plan for your pets, since not all shelters or hotels accept animals.
Your disaster supply kit should contain the following items:- Water - at least one gallon daily per person for three to seven days
- Food - at least enough for three to seven days
- non-perishable packaged or canned food/juices
- foods for infants or the elderly
- snack foods
- non-electric can opener
- cooking tools/fuel
- paper plates/plastic utensils
- Blankets, pillows, etc.
- Clothing - seasonal/rain gear/sturdy shoes
- First aid kit/medicines/prescription drugs
- Special items - for babies and the elderly
- Toiletries - hygiene items
- Moisture wipes
- Flashlight/batteries
- Radio – battery-operated and NOAA weather radio
- Cash - banks and ATMs may not be open or available for extended periods
- Keys
- Toys, books, and games
- Important documents - in a waterproof container
- insurance, medical records, bank account numbers, Social Security card, etc.
- document all valuables by recording if possible
- Tools - keep a set with you during the storm
- Fill up vehicle fuel tanks
- Pet care items
- proper identification/immunization records
- ample supply of food and water
- a carrier or cage
- medications
- muzzle and leash
Always stay up-to-date on current conditions if a hurricane may strike or potential disaster has been identified. NOAA Weather Radio provides information on weather conditions. Additionally, Florida 511 and Florida Highway Patrol provide information on traffic conditions.
For more information on hurricane preparedness, please visit http://www.floridadisaster.org/.
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