If I asked you to tell me a story about a time you experienced an extreme weather event or a natural disaster, what story would you share?

All of us have one or more stories about our experience during a natural disaster or an extreme weather event. For many in Florida, hurricane stories and extremely hot days likely come to mind.

As we reflect on past experiences, memories from before, during, and after the storm fill our minds.  We may remember what we lost, the challenges we faced, who helped us when we were in need, who was by our side, and what we would have done differently. On a smaller scale, there are likely memories of how we passed the time without access to TVs or Wi-Fi, the number of days we went without a shower, the atypical meals eaten out of necessity, the clearing of post-storm debris in our yards and streets, the long lines at the gas station, unbelievable traffic while evacuating away from our homes, checking in with friends and family on safety and location status during the chaos, or the heat we faced without available air conditioning.

Next, questions come to mind, such as “What would we have done differently?” With this, hurricane preparation is key. Hurricane season runs from June through November, aligning with higher sea surface temperatures. As expected, these summer and fall months coincide with extremely high temperatures on land, as well. In the aftermath of storms, homes may be without power and air conditioning for days or weeks resulting in many suffering from heat-related stress and illnesses during this time. During these times, it is important to reduce heat exposure, rest frequently, and enact a plan already in place.  There is action to be taken now to protect you and your family from Florida’s most extreme season of intense heat, tropical storms, and hurricanes.

Beat the Heat: Ready and Resilient

Before this upcoming season of extreme heat and storms, it is critical to prepare both plans and supplies in anticipation. The list below provides proactive habits to develop and supplies to prepare today to beat the heat and anticipate storms ahead.

Must-have Supplies

• Carry and store water – When headed out for the day, always bring cold water with you to stay hydrated. To prepare for the need to shelter in place during storm season, store 3 gallons per person in your household which should cover three days need during a storm event. Don’t forget to store water for your pets, too!
• Utilize and store electrolyte packets – If you are active in the sun for more than a couple hours at a time, it is smart to carry electrolyte packets with you. When substantial amounts of salt are lost from the body due to sweating, replenishment of the salts is essential for basic body functions.
• Utilize battery- or solar-powered fans – Sarasota County experiences an average of 250 sunny days annually. Whether outdoors or during a storm event, a solar-powered fan can keep you cool when access to electricity may be unavailable. If your available fan is battery powered, have extra batteries prepared.
• Charge and store external batteries – Including charged, external batteries in your hurricane kits allows power for phones and emergency radios. The ability to communicate and receive updates during states of emergency during and after a storm is critical.
• Consider a generator – Generators can help power your home and essential communication devices during a storm power outage or shortage. You may want to own a generator in anticipation of the season. When storing and using generators, be sure to proactively research and follow safety best practices to ensure generator safe use.

Essential Habits to Beat the Heat and Stay Safe

• Wear hats – Shading your face protects your face from harsh ultraviolet (UV) rays and keeps you cool.
• Wear sunscreen – Protects your skin from harsh, prolonged exposure to UV rays, and prevents sunburn and drying of your skin.
• Wear the “4 Ls” – Loose-fitting, Long, Light-colored, Lightweight clothing can protect you from the sun’s harsh rays and ensure you stay cool in the heat.
• Seek shade – Whether inside with air conditioning or under a tree outdoors, it is essential to take breaks from direct sunlight. If you do not have access to air conditioning, shaded areas under tree cover or a tent can be up to 2-3 degrees cooler in temperature and allow a break from the sun’s rays.
• Consider cooling off with a buff or towel – Shield yourself from the sun or use water-soaked towel to cool off. Transferring heat from your skin to the water, followed by the heat’s exit to the air through evaporation, can make a significant difference.
• Use the buddy system – Whether out on a hot day or in the midst of a storm, it is best to have a buddy. Having someone else with you allows you to look for signs of heat illness or dehydration in one another, watch for each other’s safety, and have someone to solve problems with when safety risks and issues arise.
• Limit your outside exposure and consider the time of day – Taking indoor breaks with air conditioning, reducing your time outside, and choosing cooler hours of the day for your time in the sun can make all the difference in protecting you against heat-related illness. Plan your day accordingly and avoid spending extended periods of time outside in the afternoon hours when temperatures are highest.

Stay Safe and Protect Your Power Before Storms Hit!

When you hear of a storm on its way, prepare your home properly to prevent damage to your home’s electrical systems and ensure restoration of power when available.

• Elevate your home electricity systems – If possible, elevate your home’s electrical panels, generators, and air conditioners. This may reduce the risk of water infiltrating these devices causing damage.
• Ensure electronic devices are “high and dry” – Unplug all electric devices and store them in safe locations that are “high and dry.” This significantly reduces the risk of lightning, flooding, and power outages damaging electronic devices.
• Switch off your circuit breaker – With your electricity off during the storm, you can prevent water and electricity mixing, protecting your home’s electricity system and your family.
• Turn your home’s water off – Your water shut-off valve may be in your yard or in your garage. Turning this to the off position may help minimize damage due to pipe bursts and prevent damage to your home’s electrical system.

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• Sarasota County Emergency Preparedness Guide
• Extreme Heat Safety (American Red Cross)
• Heat-related Illnesses (CDC)
• Hurricane Preparedness (NOAA)
• Generator Safety and Hurricanes (City of Miami)
• Heat Vulnerability in Sarasota County Story Map – map link coming soon!