While we have all dealt with our fair share of stress, anxiety and uncertainty the past few months, summer in Florida is upon us.
The summer season brings with it, longer days, heat, and humidity and of course the beginning of hurricane season. While the prospect of a storm impacting our area can be somewhat disconcerting, preparation can help lessen those fears.
Preparing in advance for hurricane season can determine not only how safely and comfortably you ride out the storm, but also how easy it is to handle the days and weeks after the storm has passed.
Here are some important steps.
Make a plan: All residents should prepare for hurricane season by creating a family plan and disaster supply kit, securing personal property and having a place to go in the event of an evacuation. A plan should answer the following questions. How will I receive emergency alerts and warnings? What is my shelter plan? What is my evacuation route? What is my family/household communication plan? Learn more at www.floridadisaster.org.
The most important part of your hurricane plan is a Hurricane Kit that includes the basic life support you will need after a disaster. Prepare to be self-sufficient for at least three (3) days to two weeks.
Stock up: The 2020 Disaster Preparedness Sales Tax Holiday, which runs May 29 through June 4, is a great opportunity to stock up on qualifying items exempt from tax to include in your disaster supply kit.
Tune in: Listen to and follow public announcements through local media, the County’s Social Media Channels: www.facebook.com/osceolacountyfl, www.facebook.com/OsceolaEOC, twitter.com/osceolacountyfl, and twitter.com/OsceolaEOC. You should have a weather radio and a cell phone (with a way to charge it in the event of power loss). Along with other resources, you can also sign up for text alerts from Osceola County at alertosceola.org.
2020 Atlantic Hurricane Names:
- Arthur
- Bertha
- Cristobal
- Dolly
- Edouard
- Fay
- Gonzalo
- Hanna
- Isaias
- Josephine
- Kyle
- Laura
- Marco
- Nana
- Omar
- Paulette
- Rene
- Sally
- Teddy
- Vicky
- Wilfred
The above story also appears in the June 2020 edition of the Celebration News