June 1st begins hurricane season in Florida. The time to prepare is now. How will you receive alerts and warnings? Where will you go if you need to evacuate? What are the best route to get there? What shelters are available in your area? How will you communicate with family and friends? Where will you meet if you get separated? What should you have on hand - just in case? What should you take if you need to evacuate? 

How will you receive alerts and warnings?   www.AlertCharlotte.com is a great resource for not only weather alerts but road closings and many other things - It's free and easy to sign up for. TRY IT!

Will you need to evacuate? Know your evacuation zone (www.CharlotteCountyFL.gov/Knowyourzone), also check to see if your home is at risk for flooding (mscfema.gov).

Where will you go if you need to evacuate? Think ahead about your evacuation, have multiple options available (friends, family, a hotel or a shelter). What is the best route to use. Map this out ahead of time. Fill your cars gas tank. Make a list of phone numbers you might need and attach it to your check list. Have a check list handy to make packing quick and easy. A check list will also help you to not forget anything. You might also find a check list for what you need to do before you leave your house ( turn off your electricity, water and gas, protect and lock your windows and doors) helpful. If you shelter in place you will also need to make sure you protect your windows and doors, clean and fill your bathtubs with water (for flushing or cleaning), store enough drinking water for 3 days (1 gallon per person), check your disaster supplies including at least a 3 day supply of non-perishable foods (don't forget a non-electric can opener). Monitor your battery-operated radio (NOAA weather radio). If flooding threatens your home , turn off electricity at the main breaker. If you lose power turn off major appliances to reduce damage from a surge when power is restored. During hurricane season it is good to keep at least a 2 week supply of all medications on hand. Also make a list of the shelters in the area that are available (check for special needs shelters or pet friendly shelters). Plan how you will communicate - ask someone out of the area to be a contact person. Keep them up to date on your disaster plans.

Before and after plans-

Before- Make sure nothing is left outside that could take flight, protect your windows and doors, if flooding could threaten your home, make sure important items are off the floor, fill your cars gas tank. Check your insurance policy for flood insurance.

After- Be Patient- You may be without power, water, sewer, phone, cell phone and businesses may be closed for days (you must be self reliant). Walk around your home and survey the damage, if you suspect a gas leak - leave immediately and call 911 or your gas provider. If your home has been flooded have a licensed electrician inspect it before turning on the power. Let your out of town contact know you are safe. Watch for snakes, insects and other animals. Drink plenty of fluids, get plenty of rest and ask for help as you need it.  Be careful when cleaning up! Use only a licensed contractor.