As we approach hurricane season, which runs June 1 through Nov. 30, now is the time to create your disaster plan and assemble your supply kit.  As you do, keep in mind that Florida legislators have created two 14-day sales tax holidays for the purchase of disaster supplies. The first runs June 1-14 and the second rolls Aug. 24 through Sept. 06.

Here are just some of the items that qualify during the tax-free holiday:

• flashlights and lanterns costing $40 or less;
• reusable ice (packs) costing $20 or less;
• radios costing $50 or less;
• tarps and ground anchors or tie-down kits costing $100 or less;
• coolers and portable power banks costing $60 or less;
• batteries and fuel tanks costing $50 or less;
• smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, and carbon monoxide detectors costing $70 or less; and
• generators costing $3,000 or less.

The tax-free holiday also includes items for our pets, for their safe evacuation.

For many of us, preparing for a weather event can be time-consuming and overwhelming. If that’s your situation, try breaking down your to-do list to get started. That also helps ease or even eliminate the panic that often comes before a storm. Follow these simple steps:

1. Create your disaster plan
2. Start to gather your supply kit
3. Have a plan for your pets
4. Have a plan for your business (if needed)

Visit our “Disaster Preparedness” webpage for an array of information for before, during and after a storm. Join us at one of our “Disaster Preparedness” classes, including our new “How to Handle Your Food for a Weather Event” lunch-and-learn sessions. And, visit the Sarasota County hurricane readiness webpage and the American Red Cross preparation page(s) for more.

No matter the resource you use, just take some time to begin preparing. It’s never too early.

RESOURCES

Visit www.flsenate.gov/Media/PressRelease/Show/4530 to learn more about the range of Florida tax-free holidays.

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