June 1-November 30
Hurricane season is one of the few “real” seasons we get here in Florida and one we always hope is uneventful. Maybe this is your first hurricane season or maybe it’s your 51st; either way, we know a few things to be certain: we never know what kind of activity the season will bring, it doesn’t hurt to review effective ways to prepare for a big storm, and waiting until last minute to plan is sure to cause unnecessary stress and frustration.
This season is a little different than most as we are still battling the COVID-19 pandemic. And because of this, we suggest allowing yourself more time to prepare for an emergency than usual. Double check your emergency evacuation route and the closest shelter to your home to make sure things have not changed. Consider finally getting those trees trimmed or maybe you’ve been meaning to rid the gutters of all the yard debris. Regardless of what the chore is, don’t put it off until a hurricane is days away from landfall.
The Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) has created a “Disaster Supply Kit Checklist” which you can view by clicking on the link at the bottom of this article. The checklist includes categories such as important documents, pet care items, first aid, and more. Do you have enough food to last a few days? Water storage containers such as reusable water bottles? Prescriptions? A few spare rolls of toilet paper? Pet food and medicine for your furry loved ones? If not, don’t wait until you hear the word “disturbance” on the Weather Channel to start prepping.
FDEM Disaster Supply Checklist
