As we start to prepare for the Hurricane Season in Florida this year! (June through November). As you prepare your plan tailor your plans and supplies to your specific daily living needs and responsibilities. Discuss your needs and responsibilities and how people in the network can assist each other with communication, care of children, business, pets, or specific needs like the operation of durable medical equipment. Create your own personal network for specific areas where you need assistance. Here are a few things to consider:
What supplies do you need to prepare for a hurricane?
Ahead of potentially devastating storms this hurricane season, the Red Cross recommends having the following supplies on hand:
- Water: At least a 5-day supply; one gallon per person per day
- Food: At least a 5-day supply of non-perishable, easy-to-prepare food
- Flashlight
- Battery-powered or hand-crank radio (NOAA Weather Radio, if possible)
- Extra batteries
- First aid kit
- Medications (7-day supply) and medical items (hearing aids with extra batteries, glasses, contact lenses, syringes, cane)
- Multi-purpose tool
- Copies of personal documents (insurance policies, birth certificates, lease or deed to home)
- Sanitation and personal hygiene items
- Emergency blanket
- Insect repellent and sunscreens
- Baby supplies (bottles, formula, baby food, diapers)
- Rain gear
What safety precautions should you take before a hurricane?
In their hurricane safety checklist, the Red Cross advises:
- Listen to NOAA Weather Radio for critical information from the National Weather Service
- If your area is told to evacuate, evacuate ( See links below for additional information)
- Communication plan: Alert your family or friends, if you are evacuating and where you are planning to go
- Check your disaster supplies and replace or restock as needed
- Canned Goods and ready to eat meals, juice boxes, etc…
- Fill your car’s gas tank
- Turn the refrigerator and freezer in the coldest setting and keep them closed as much as possible so food will last longer if power goes out
- Bring any outdoor furniture inside
- Close your windows, doors and hurricane shutters
- Board up all windows and doors with plywood
- Learn about your community’s hurricane response plan (see Below links)
- Check on your neighbors (especially the elderly)
- Propane Tank – Fill (for Grill) Pots and Pans (Do not cook in garage)
- Picnic basket supplies: Utensils and napkins
- Shelter Plan
- Evacuation routes
Hurricane safety tips for pets
The Humane Society of the United States also put together a disaster plan for your pets. Their recommendations include:
- Make sure that cats and dogs are wearing collars and identification tags that are up to date
- Put your cellphone number on your pet’s tag (or a relative/friend’s number in case you need to evacuate)
- Find a safe place to stay ahead of time
- Never assume you will be allowed to bring your pet to an emergency shelter — check with local officials in advance to find out about pet-friendly shelters
- Consider a kennel or veterinarian’s office or contact hotels and motels
- Bring your pet with you if you evacuate
- Stock enough food and water for each pet for at least five days
- Don’t forget to bring your pet’s medications and a sturdy leash or carrying case.
Red Cross information
Here is a link to the Red Cross for additional information
Hillsborough County Preparedness:
2021 Hurricane Evacuation Assessment Tool Enter in your address for update information regarding Evacuation zone, Public Transportation Shelters, Pet-Friendly Shelters and All Public Shelters near you!
Sarasota County Preparedness plan:
2021 Hurricane Evacuation Assessment Tool updated information regarding Evacuation zone levels, Evacuation Centers and Transportation.
Pasco County Preparedness plan:
2021 Hurricane Evacuation Assessment Tool and Tips for Tornadoes, Wildfires, Floods and Cyber Security Plant, updated information regarding Evacuation zone levels, routs, Evacuation Centers and Transportation.
Other Area plans
Preparing for other Types of Disasters
Alerts
Shelters
Evacuation
Communications Plan
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