Hurricane Season: Are you prepared?

Those who were here for Harvey need few reminders of the devastation, but regardless of how many storms you have lived and endured, it is always important to be prepared. Hurricane season begins June 1st, and weather officials are predicting 2019 to result in a near-to slightly above-normal season with 12 to 14 storms. Hurricanes like Harvey emphasize the need for every citizen to have a well thought out personal and/or family plan, and remember, “If you fail to plan, then plan to fail.”

The following are some basics that should be part of your plan:Protect from the Dangers of Inland Flooding

• Protect Your Past - personal records and special items

• Protect Your Present - buy flood insurance!

• Protect Your Peace of Mind - focus on planning & communications

• Protect Yourself & Others - NEVER drive on flooded roads. “Turn Around, Don’t Drown”

Prepare a Disaster Survival Kit

• Have enough non-perishable food, water, and supplies for family and pets to last at least five (5) days.

Prepare for Hurricane Season

• Know if you live in a designated evacuation zone. Nassau Bay is in Zone ‘A’, not to be confused with flood insurance zones. Plan ahead for where you will go and when you will leave.

• Familiarize yourself with your children’s school and your workplace evacuation plans.

• Protect your property, board up windows; secure outside furniture, etc.; secure boats, trailers and other items.

• Perform an Inventory, make copies of important insurance documents (Property, Life, Health, etc) along with credit and ID cards. Make a video or take pictures of your property and belongings for insurance purposes.

• Store important documents in a secure place away from home.

• Keep some cash in a safe place that can easily be accessed during an evacuation. ATM’s are useless during power outages.

Plan for Those with Functional Needs

• Hearing, speech or mobility impaired, the critically ill, people without vehicles or those with special dietary needs should call 211, the State Transportation Evacuation Assistance Registry, to register for assistance.

Plan for Pets and Shelter of LivestockWhen a Hurricane Threatens

• Frequently monitor TV, radio (KTRH 740 AM), NOAA weather radio, internet and hurricane help lines.

• Fuel your vehicles and keep them topped-off.

Sign Up for Nassau Bay's Emergency Alert Notifications