Hurricane season starts June 1st and ends November 30th. What steps have you taken to keep you and your family safe? Preparing for a hurricane can be overwhelming, but it is important to stay informed and keep yourself organized during this time. Plan ahead for the things that you will need before, during, and after the storm.
This year, the Disaster Preparedness sales tax begins May 29, 2020-June 04, 2020. To learn more about qualifying items, visit the Florida Department of Revenue for more information. Minimize your stress and save some money by planning and shopping ahead.
Here is a guideline to help you prepare this hurricane season.
Before a Hurricane:
Step 1: Develop an emergency plan for your home. Involve your family in the process.
- Familiarize yourself with evacuation zones in your area.
- Identify and make note of the shelters in your area.
- Create a list of items you will need to secure your home. Be on the look out for items that are on sale!
- Make a contact list of family and friends.
Step 3: Build an emergency kit. Make a list of food items that you will need. Developing a list will help you stay ahead and may save you money!
Step 4: Review your homeowner’s insurance. Place your documents in a Ziploc bag or waterproof protector, and store in a safe location.
Step 5: Stay informed! Stay tuned to local news and communication from your county government. If applicable, download disaster recovery apps.
During a Hurricane Watch:
- Secure your home. Bring in outdoor items such as patio furniture and any other items that can cause damage to your home. Larger items that cannot be moved inside should be secured safely. Secure your windows.
- Fill up your vehicle. Purchase additional gas cans-store these items in a safe location.
- Adjust your refrigerator to the coolest setting.
- Tune into National Weather Services and local government for the latest news and developments. Follow instructions issued by local government.
- Keep a battery operated radio in an easily accessible location.
- Review your emergency plan.
Preparing for Shelter:
- Create a list of items you will need. Some items may include: toiletries, personal hygiene products, medication, identification, emergency contact list. Don’t forget to bring basic bedding (sleeping bag, pillow and blanket)-remember that you are limited in space.
- If you are a pet owner, find out if pets are allowed. If not, find a shelter that allows pets or make necessary arrangements to keep your pets safe.
- If you have a disability, find out if your assigned shelter is equipped to accommodate your needs. Call your assigned shelter for more information.
After a Hurricane:
- Stay tuned to the National Weather Service and your local government.
- Assess your home for damages. Take pictures and document damages.
- Contact your homeowner’s insurance company to report damages.
Resources:
Nationwide:
- Consumer Reports: http://www.Consumerreports.org
- Federal Emergency Management Agency: http://www.fema.org , 1-800-FEMA (3362)
- American Red Cross: http://www.redcross.org , 1-800-733-2767
- Ready.gov: http://www.ready.gov
Florida:
- Florida Division of Emergency: http://www.floridadisaster.org , 1-850-413-9969
- Florida Department of Law Enforcement: http://www.fdle.state.fl.us/ , 1-850-410-7233
Palm Beach County:
- Florida Cooperative Extension Publications and Information on all aspects of disasters preparation and recovery for businesses, homes, and families: http://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/archive/hot_topics/disaster_prep/hurricane_prep_fc.shtml
- Official Palm Beach County Hurricane Planning Guide: http://discover.pbcgov.org/publicsafety/PDF/Hurricane-Guide.pdf
- Palm Beach County Government: http://www.pbcgov.org
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