Hurricane Preparedness

Hurricanes are a significant threat to the Florida Gulf Coast, bringing strong winds, heavy rains, and storm surges that can cause extensive damage. Being prepared is crucial to ensuring your safety and protecting your property. We want to provide you with the necessary steps to take before, during, and after a hurricane.

Check Your Area's Zone Map

Understanding your area’s specific risks is essential for effective hurricane preparedness.

Knowing your home’s flood zone and its ability to withstand strong winds and heavy rain is crucial. Check your local flood zone and evacuation map to understand your risks and the necessary steps to take when an evacuation order is issued.

  • Flood Zones: Determine your home’s flood risk by checking the local flood zone map. Homes in low-lying areas or near water bodies are at higher risk.
  • Evacuation Orders: Pay close attention to evacuation orders from local authorities. Knowing your flood zone and evacuation routes can help you act quickly and efficiently when an evacuation is ordered.
Have a detailed evacuation plan prepared, including routes and destinations. Make sure to share this plan with all family members. Knowing where to go and how to get there quickly can save precious time during an emergency. Identify multiple routes in case your primary route is blocked and ensure your plan includes accommodations for all family members, including pets. Review evacuation maps to identify the nearest evacuation routes and shelters. This will help you plan the safest and quickest way to leave your area if necessary.

Preparing Disaster Supplies

Having a well-stocked disaster kit can make a significant difference in your ability to manage during and after a hurricane. This section outlines essential supplies and information on making purchases during tax-free holidays.

Here are some essential items to include in your disaster kit:

  • Water: One gallon per person per day for at least three days.
  • Non-perishable food: Three-day supply of foods that require little or no preparation.
  • Battery-powered or hand-crank radio: To stay informed about weather updates and emergency information.
  • Flashlight and extra batteries: For power outages…
  • For a more comprehensive list, click here.

Having these supplies on hand ensures you can sustain yourself and your family during the initial days following a hurricane when resources may be limited.

Take advantage of the yearly sales tax holiday to purchase qualifying disaster supplies tax-free. This holiday usually occurs in early summer, allowing you to save money while preparing for hurricane season. Stock up on essential items during this period to ensure your disaster kit is well-equipped.

For more information about Florida’s Disaster Preparedness Sales Tax Holiday, click here!

Preparing Pets for the Coming Storm

Pets are family too, and it’s essential to have a plan for their safety during a hurricane. This section emphasizes the importance of including pets in your evacuation plans and provides guidelines for preparing a pet disaster kit.

Never leave your pets behind when evacuating. Ensure they are part of your evacuation plan from the start. Pets left behind can be vulnerable to injury or death, and evacuation centers may not allow you to return to rescue them. Plan ahead to ensure your pets are safe and secure.

Prepare a disaster kit specifically for your pets, including:

  • Food and water: Enough for at least three days.
  • Medications and medical records: Keep them in a waterproof container.
  • Leash, harness, and carrier: To ensure you can transport your pet safely.
  • Current photos of you with your pet(s): In case they get lost.
  • Pet bed, toys, and treats: To keep them comfortable and calm.
  • Information on pet-friendly hotels and shelters: Know where you can stay with your pet during an evacuation.

Identify pet-friendly shelters and hotels ahead of time. Some local shelters and hotels will accommodate pets during emergencies. Ensure you have a list of these locations and contact them in advance to confirm their pet policies.

Check out Pet’s Welcome website to see which nearby hotels or motels are pet-friendly.

Additional Resources

Stay informed and prepared with these additional resources. These links provide valuable information and tools to help you stay updated and make informed decisions during a hurricane.

  • FEMA Mobile App: Stay informed with real-time alerts and safety tips. This app provides crucial information on disaster response and recovery, helping you stay prepared. [Download FEMA App]

  • Florida Disaster.org – Division of Emergency Management: Access detailed information and updates on hurricanes. This site offers resources on how to prepare for and respond to hurricanes, including evacuation routes and shelter information. [Visit Florida Disaster.org]

  • Red Cross: Get resources and support for hurricane preparedness and recovery. The Red Cross provides emergency assistance, disaster relief, and education. [Visit Red Cross]

FAQs

You can find your flood zone by checking your local government’s website or using FEMA’s Flood Map Service Center. This will help you understand your risk and plan accordingly.

[Link to FEMA Flood Map Service Center]

Follow the instructions given by local authorities, ensure your disaster kit is ready, secure your home, and leave immediately using your pre-planned evacuation route. Timely evacuation can save lives and reduce injury.
Stay tuned to local news, weather channels, and use apps like the FEMA Mobile App for real-time alerts. Staying informed allows you to take timely action to protect yourself and your family.

See current weather forecast here.
C: 850-490-1519 | O: 850-916-5800
913 Gulf Breeze Pkwy., Suite 44
Gulf Breeze, FL 32561