Hurricane Preparedness

Meteorologist Stanley Goldenberg of the Hurricane Research Division of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration shares the following tips for hurricane preparedness.

Five Ps For Hurricane Preparedness

1. Protect Life and Property
2. Make Provisions 
3. Make Plans 
4. Follow the Predictions 
5. Pray 

When A Hurricane Watch Is Issued

1. Select Evacuation Locations. Identify where you will go if an evacuation is announced. Choose several destinations such as a friend's home in another city, a hotel or a shelter. Notify neighbors and family of evacuation plans.
2. Listen For News. Listen to Moody Radio Florida or a NOAA weather radio for weather updates and evacuation notices.
3. Make A Disaster Supply Kit.

• Local map, which may be needed during an evacuation if roads are closed or congested
• Address and phone number for evacuation locations
• First aid kit and medication
• Food and water, including three gallons of bottled water per individual
• Documents, including your driver's license, Social Security card, insurance policies, birth certificate, marriage certificate, will, deeds and tax records. Store these documents in a waterproof container.
• Flashlight and battery-operated radio with extra batteries

When A Hurricane Warning Is Issued

1. Monitor The News. 
2. Complete Preparation Activities. Install storm shutters. Secure loose property. Disconnect utilities if instructed to do so. Check your disaster supply kit and add any items that are missing.
3. Stay Indoors, Away From Windows. 
4. Check On Elderly or Disabled Neighbors. 
5. Evacuate When Instructed. Evacuate immediately if you live in a mobile home, flood zone or on the coast or a barrier island.

For More Information

National and State Resources 

• National Hurricane Center 
• Florida Division of Emergency Management 

Preparedness 

• Ready.gov - Hurricanes 
• Florida Power & Light Storm Preparedness Guide 
• Get A Plan! 

Recovery 

• Florida Department of Financial Services Disaster Response Guide