Be Prepared for a Tropical Storm or Hurricane
Hurricane season in Florida is June 1 through Nov 30 every year. Since those months are the most popular times to visit the gulf shores, our Florida visitors should always know how to react if a tropical storm or hurricane is in the forecast.
The good news is that state of Florida is prepared for such emergencies, but visitors must learn what to do and what NOT to do so that every individual is doing their part to stay safe during the storm. Here are some helpful guidelines for our guests to follow during their stay if a tropical storm or a hurricane is in the forecast.
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- Build or restock your emergency preparedness kit.
Include a flashlight, batteries, cash, and first aid supplies.
- Build or restock your emergency preparedness kit.
- Plan how to communicate with family members if you lose power.
For example, you can use phone, text, social media, or email. -
- Create an evacuation plan with your family.
You may have to leave quickly.
- Create an evacuation plan with your family.
- Bring in outdoor furniture and other items that could blow away.
These may become a safety hazard.
- Bookmark your local government’s website.
This gives you quick access to storm updates and emergency instructions.
- Stock up with food and water supplies to last at least 3 days.
In case of flooding or heavy winds and rain, you won’t want to go out.
- Fill your gas tank and get cash from the ATM.
If power goes out, you will not be able to use gas pumps or credit cards.
- Turn on your TV/radio, or check your local government’s website frequently.
You’ll get the latest weather updates and emergency instructions.
- Charge your phone and any power banks you have.
You’ll have a full battery if you lose power.
- Close storm shutters if possible and stay away from windows.
Flying glass from broken windows could injure you.
- Turn your refrigerator or freezer to the coldest setting and open only when necessary.
If you lose power, food will last longer.
- If your car is parked in the underground parking, consider moving it to a higher level in the main parking garage.
Although you may not want to drive it during the bad weather, this will minimize any flooding damage to your vehicle.
- Avoid walking or driving through flood waters.
Just 6 inches of moving water can knock you down, and fast-moving water can sweep your vehicle away.
- Be extra careful when walking outside.
Storm damage such as downed power lines and fallen debris could injure you.
It’s important to be cautious and prepared in situations such as hurricanes and tropical storms. Make sure you and your family have a plan to keep yourselves safe during hurricane season.