State of the County: Hurricane season

Keeping You Safe During Hurricane Season

BY ALEX AUBUCHON

The start of the 2021 hurricane season is just days away, and we want every Marion County resident and visitor to be fully prepared for the possibility of severe weather.

That’s why we’re offering these tips to keep you safe and informed in case disaster strikes.

ALERT MARION The best (and easiest) thing you can do to prepare for severe weather in Marion County is to sign up for our Alert Marion system.

This enables you to receive the very latest information before, during and after times of emergency directly from our emergency management professionals.

You can choose to receive alerts by phone, email, text or any combination thereof relating to severe weather events, evacuation orders and critical law enforcement operations.

This free emergency notification system ensures you will be kept up to date when the need for information is at its most crucial.

Visit AlertMarion.com to register today.

SPECIAL NEEDS REGISTRY Marion County also maintains a confidential special needs registry for residents who require assistance during emergencies or evacuations due to a disability or impairment.

Our emergency management staff operates a special needs shelter to provide services such as oxygen for medical care, uninterrupted electricity for medical devices, and certain nursing and medical care services.

You can register yourself or a loved one for this program at AlertMarion.com.

SHELTER WITH YOUR PETS When the Emergency Operations Center is activated and storm shelters are opened in Marion County, one or two of these shelters will be ready to keep you and your pets safe.

Marion County Animal Services and Emergency Management teams provide kennels and everything your pet will need to ride out the storm in a secure facility with constant care. Owners are encouraged to bring pet care items like food, litter and toys, but essentials will be provided for all pets.

“We know many residents will refuse to evacuate if they can’t bring their pets,” said Animal Operations Manager Stephanie Kash. “Our pet-friendly shelters allow families to stay together and stay safe.”

Many types of animals are welcome, and residents are strongly encouraged to bring proof of current vaccinations to the shelter upon check in.

TOP TIPS FOR HURRICANE SAFETY

• Have a plan

Make a detailed emergency plan and review it with the whole family before the threat of severe weather. • Stock up on supplies

Keep necessities on hand, such as water, non-perishable food, blankets, flashlights, a weather radio, batteries, first aid kits, medications and any pet care items. Take advantage of Florida’s severe weather sales tax holiday.

• Keep a contact

Make sure to have a friend or family member outside the area that can check on you.

• Follow emergency instructions

Check Alert Marion as well as radio and television outlets for emergency information. Follow instructions regarding evacuation and other safety protocols.

• Know your route

Make sure you’re comfortable with your evacuation route before the hurricane hits, and keep a full tank of gas in your vehicle.

• Protect your documents

Make sure your identification cards and other vital information are kept in a secure, waterproof container.

Follow these tips and register for alerts at AlertMarion.com and you’ll be prepared for hurricane season.

Alex AuBuchon is the Public Information Officer for the Marion County Board of Commissioners.