Hurricane season begins June 1 and goes to November 30. Many of you have lived in the area long enough to know what to do, but for those new to the area, or for those who just need a refresher, here are the basics for what to do as well as some links to resources available from the City, County, and State.
Make a plan: Your emergency plan should include: a) All members of your household, b) Special medical conditions, c) When and where to evacuate, d) Special transportation needs, e) Emergency meeting place, f) An out-of-town contact who everyone can call to stay in touch, and g) Pet plan.
Gather Supplies: Gather emergency supplies: a) A gallon of water per person for 7 days (that is seven gallons per person if it wasn’t clear), b) Non-perishable foods such as canned meat, fish, veggies, fruits and nuts, c) Can opener, disposable plates and utensils, and d) Matches and cooking gel.
Stock Up on Medical Needs: a) 30 day supply of prescription medications from your doctor, b) Over the counter pain reliever, antacids, anti-diarrhea medicine and children’s medicine, c) List of all medications and essential medical devices, d) Physician contact number, and e) Blood type and allergies for all household members.
Copies of Essential Data: Collect essential data in a waterproof container: a) Contact information for property insurer, official emergency agencies, family and friends, b) Credit card and bank information, c) Portable computer storage device with electronic copies of mortgage, home deed, car title, etc. d) Instructions for shutting off utilities, and e) Pet health records.
Helpful Links with additional information:
- City of Hollywood Hurricane Information and Resources
- Hurricane Kit Shopping Guide (Broward County)
- Broward County A-Z Guide of Hurricane Preparedness
- Broward County Emergency Preparedness for Residents at Risk
- Broward County Hurricane Evacuation Services
- State of Florida Essential Guide to Hurricane Preparedness
- Broward Humane Society – Hurricane Preparedness and your Pets
- National Hurricane Center
- Florida Disaster, Division of Emergency Management (Hurricane, Fires, Flooding)
After any emergency remember to take care of you and your family first, then secure your property to prevent further injury, then help your friends and neighbors secure theirs.