Preparing for Hurricane Season in Florida

June is here and so is the beginning of hurricane season in Florida. Being prepared is key to ensuring the safety and well-being of yourself, your loved ones, and your property. Below are some recommended steps to be ready for this hurricane season in Florida.

1. Stay Informed:
   Keep a close eye on local news and weather forecasts for updates on developing storms. Familiarize yourself with the hurricane terminology used by meteorologists, such as the difference between a tropical depression, tropical storm, and hurricane. Sign up for emergency alerts and notifications from local authorities and be aware of evacuation routes and shelters in your area.
2. Create an Emergency Plan:
   Discuss evacuation strategies with your family members or roommates and establish a designated meeting point. Ensure everyone understands the plan and knows what to do in case of an emergency. Prepare an emergency kit that includes essentials such as non-perishable food, water, batteries, flashlights, a first aid kit, medications, important documents, and cash.
3. Secure Your Property:
   Trim trees and shrubs near your home to reduce the risk of falling branches. Reinforce windows and doors with shutters or plywood to prevent wind and debris from entering. Clear gutters and drains to facilitate proper water drainage. Consider installing a generator for backup power during extended outages.
4. Review Insurance Coverage:
   Understand the deductibles, coverage limits, and exclusions specified in your policy. Consider additional flood insurance if you reside in a flood-prone area. Document your belongings by creating an inventory with photographs or videos. Store important documents in a waterproof container or upload digital copies to a secure cloud storage service such as DropBox or OneDrive.
5. Prepare for Power Outages:
   Stock up on non-perishable food items that require no cooking or refrigeration. Have a supply of fresh water available, with a recommended minimum of one gallon per person per day for at least three days. Purchase battery-operated fans, flashlights, and a battery-powered or hand-crank radio. Keep your electronic devices charged and have a portable battery pack on hand.
6. Evacuation Planning:
   If local authorities issue evacuation orders, take them seriously. Familiarize yourself with the evacuation routes and plan your departure accordingly. Prepare your vehicle with a full tank of gas, emergency supplies, and a road map in case GPS navigation is unavailable. Make arrangements for pets, as many shelters may not allow them. If you have elderly or disabled family members or neighbors, reach out to offer assistance or connect them with the appropriate resources.

As hurricane season begins in Florida, take proactive steps to ensure your safety and preparedness. Stay informed, create an emergency plan, secure your property, review insurance coverage, prepare for power outages, and plan for evacuation if necessary. By following these guidelines, you will be better equipped to face the challenges posed by hurricanes. Remember, preparedness is key, so don’t wait until a storm is on the horizon—start your preparations today!