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Prepare Now for Hurricane Season

As Floridians gear up for the hurricane season, which officially kicks off on June 1 and runs until November 30, it is crucial for everyone—homeowners, renters, and property managers—to take proactive measures to safeguard their families and property. Each year, the threat of severe storms looms, and being prepared can significantly mitigate the risks involved.

Remarks from Experts
Florida Realtors®, the leading voice for real estate in Florida, stresses the importance of early preparations. Chuck Bonfiglio, the president of Florida Realtors® and broker-owner of AAA Realty Group, states, "Hurricane season is an integral part of life in Florida, and preparation is key to safety and minimizing risk. Whether you own or rent your home, early planning helps protect what matters most—your family and your investment."

As the hurricane season approaches, it is advisable for families to assemble an emergency supply kit that includes essential items for both humans and pets. According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the supplies should fulfill health and medical needs while considering any potential emergencies. One critical point to note is that during federally declared emergencies, residents are permitted to obtain an additional 30-day prescription supply without a price increase, even for recently filled medications. It's important to consult with healthcare providers and pharmacists to ascertain what medications may be needed.

Items to Include in Your Emergency Supply Kit

1. Water: A minimum of one gallon per person per day for at least three days.
2. Food: Non-perishable, healthy foods like canned vegetables, fruits, and nuts. Ensure at least a three-day supply that requires no refrigeration or cooking.
3. Medications: Prescription drugs, along with necessary equipment like syringes and alcohol wipes.
4. Manual Can Opener: Essential for opening canned goods.
5. Pet Supplies: Food, medication, and any other necessary supplies for pets.
6. Flashlight: Plus extra batteries to ensure you remain illuminated post-storm.
7. Radio: A battery-powered or hand-crank radio to receive emergency updates.
8. Whistle: For signaling for help in an emergency.
9. First-Aid Kit: Essential for treating any injuries.
10. Personal Essentials: Glasses, hearing aids, extra batteries for any medical devices.
11. Chargers: Cell phone with mobile chargers, or options like inverters or solar chargers for emergencies.
12. Tools: A wrench or pliers for utility shutoffs.
13. Sanitation Supplies: Dust masks, plastic sheeting, duct tape for sheltering in place, moist towelettes, garbage bags, and ties for personal sanitation.

For those with family members dependent on daily medical assistance, it is crucial to preregister for a special needs shelter. This can be done through FloridaDisaster.org by clicking on the "Special Needs Registry" section.

Preparing Your Home

To bolster your home against potential storm damage, FEMA outlines several basic steps:

• - Cover Windows and Doors: Utilize shutters or marine plywood, as standard tape does not significantly prevent window breakage.
• - Landscape Maintenance: Trim trees and shrubs, clear rain gutters, and ensure flat roofs have drainage areas cleared to avoid ponding.
• - Secure the Roof: Consider additional straps or clips to mitigate the risk of severe wind damage.
• - Move Light Objects Indoors: With any storm warnings, it's time to move outdoor items like garbage cans and plants inside.
• - Emergency Preparation Within Your Home: Set refrigerators to high and keep doors closed, turn off propane tanks, and fill bathtubs with water for potential post-storm needs.
• - Evacuation Plans: If staying home is impossible, have a firm evacuation plan prepared and know the safest routes.

During strong winds, it is advised to close interior doors, avoid windows, and if in a multistory building, seek shelter on the first or second floors. In flood-prone areas, keep an axe handy in the attic to cut through the roof if needed.

Florida Realtors® acts as a guiding voice for the state's real estate professionals, offering vital programs, services, legislative representation, and education to more than 230,000 members across 47 boards and associations. For further updates and resources, visit the Florida Realtors® Newsroom at floridarealtors.org/newsroom.

The message is clear: preparation is not just an option; it's a necessity during hurricane season in Florida. Take these recommended steps seriously to ensure a safer experience during severe weather.