Hurricane Season Is Here: Be Prepared

Hurricane Season Is Here: Be Prepared

Every year we are reminded of how vulnerable our coastal communities are to Hurricanes. Over the years the residents in our area of St. Augustine have been very fortunate to have missed the power and destruction that can be brought on by nature.

As the population increases so does the awareness of proper planning in the event of a hurricane in our area. Do you have a plan? Do you know where you will be going and the route to take?

Have a plan and have it memorized!

Disaster can strike so quickly. Even with the advance notice from the media of an impending hurricane, nature can change directions at such a fast pace that it can catch you off guard.

Begin with the basics. Are you located in an evacuation area? Know to what extent your home may flood due to a surge. If you are asked to evacuate, do you know the route you should take or will be required to take?

Do you have pets? Do you know what you will do with them during an emergency? Some motels accept pets. Shelters do not. Do any of you pets take medicine that you may need on hand? Do you have extra food for them?

Very important! Have a written plan.

Your best plan is a plan that is written down and you know what to do during a disaster.

Visit FEMA. The federal Emergency Management Agency at www.fema.gov/plan/index.shtm. They will supply a "Family Disaster Supplies Kit." You may also visit www.floridadisaster.org/family for creating your own plan.