Be Prepared for a Hurricane - Have a Plan!

Although Northeast Florida has been fortunate to not have experienced a direct hit by a hurricane since Hurricane Dora in 1964, we also know that it is foolish to not be prepared.  Having the basic supplies on hand, ensuring that a well-thought plan of action has already been put into place, and having access to information are something that all Floridians should do before the hurricane season begins.

The Basics

• Hurricane season is June 1 - November 30.  Historically, the season is most active during mid-September, but there is an opportunity for tropical storm and hurricane activity throughout the season.
• Each household should have a 3-day supply of the following, for each member of the household:
• 1 Gallon of Water (per day, per person)
• Non-perishable packaged or canned food
• Snacks (comfort food is important!)
• Medications
• Diapers, pet food, sanitary items, eating/drinking utensils
• Well stocked first-aid kit. 
• Can opener, simple tools (hammer, screwdriver, pliers, hacksaw, hatchet)
• Trash bags, paper towels, hand sanitizer
• Flashlights, batteries
• Radio (and batteries), walkie-talkies
• Games, toys and chew bones/treats for pets
• Have an evacuation plan BEFORE a warning is issued - know where you AND your pets will go if you are evacuated, know your route and communicate with out of town family members where you will be.  Have a central out of town contact as an information repository for your family - remember, cell phone coverage may not be available.
• Take your insurance policy and other important documents with you.  You may be required to not only prove who you are upon your return, but that you in fact live in the area to which you are trying to gain access.
• You may want to also take your hurricane supplies with you rather than leaving them at your house.  If you go to a shelter, they will ask you to bring your provisions with you.

It is important to remember that more people and property are lost to storm surge than wind damage, so be aware of the storm surge predicted for your area based on the category of hurricane.  Be safe and be prepared.

More information about hurricanes in Florida, and how to protect you, your family and your property can be found at the following sites:

National Hurricane Center  

Storm Surge and Evacuation Maps for Florida