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2012 Okeechobee Pennysaver Hurricane Guide
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Table of Contents
The Area’s Premium Community Paper N ///
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Pennysaver Location 111 NE 2nd Street Okeechobee (In Cottage One-Eleventhe little yellow house) Phone
863-763-7283
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Pennysaver Cottage 111
NE 2nd Avenue
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Publisher Maureen Budjinski Editor/Writer Raye Deusinger Art Director Victor Howard Office Manager Tamra Cunningham Bookkeeper Rose Brennan Account Executives Trish Grygo Gail Lockwood Distribution Larry Sterling, Manager Jessica Smith
NE 2nd Street
State Road 70-West
State Road 70-East
After The Hurricane .................................17 Assisted Living Center ............................ 8 During The Hurricane ..............................17 Going To A Shelter .................................. 23 Home Preparation ...................................16 Hurricane Categories ............................... 5 Hurricane Names .......................................6 Hurricane Map ................................... 14,15 Hurricane Season .................................... 5 Hurricane Insurance Tips .........................18 Mobile Homes .........................................16 Office of Emergency Management .......... 11 Okeechobee Animal Control ...................12 Okeechobee County School District ........ 12 Okeechobee County Shelters ..................25 Okeechobee Red Cross ............................ 8 Personal Protection .................................17 Pet-Friendly Lodging ...............................23 Preparing Your Motorhome ......................21 Preparing Your Pool ............................... 24 Preparing Your Vehicle .......................... 20 Preparing Your Yard .............................. 22 Raulerson Hospital ................................. 8 Repairing After The Storm ...................... 24 Visiting Nurse Association ......................19 Waste Management ................................ 19 WOKC Radio Station .............................. 11
Community preparedness and personal preparedness are equally essential. Pennysaver spoke to representatives from many venues affecting the community and its ability to withstand a hurricane. We thank them for their contributions. Neither the advertiser nor the publisher are responsible or liable for misinformation, misprints, typographical errors, etc. herein contained. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form, or by any means, without written permission from the publisher.
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2012 Okeechobee Pennysaver Hurricane Guide
2012 Okeechobee Pennysaver Hurricane Guide The 2012 Okeechobee Pennysaver Hurricane Survival Guide is a comprehensive overview of what to do in the event a hurricane heads this way. Every storm is dangerous, so the more you are prepared the safer you will be. Please review the guidelines, find out where to seek further help and information and make a plan. OKEECHOBEE COUNTY FORECAST: Researchers Phil Klotzbach and William Gray have issued probability numbers for areas of Florida with the following forecasts for Okeechobee County and surrounding regions: Probability Probability Probability Probability Probability Probability
of of of of of of
Hurricane Impact in Florida 41.4% Major Hurricane Impact in Florida 16.2% 1 or more named storms making landfall in Okeechobee region 13.7% 1 or more hurricanes making landfall in Okeechobee region 6.3% 1 or more named storms hitting Okeechobee County 1.1% 1 or more Hurricanes making landfall in Okeechobee County 0.5%
They reported that the 2012 Atlantic basin hurricane season will have reduced activity compared with the 1981-2010 climatology. They anticipate a below-average probability for major hurricanes making landfall along the US coastline and in the Caribbean. However, coastal residents are reminded that it only takes one hurricane making landfall to make it an active season for them, and they need to prepare the same for every season, regardless of how much activity is predicted. Overall predictions are for 12 named storms, 6 hurricanes and 2 major hurricanes.
Hurricane Season Hurricane season runs from June 1 to Nov. 30. June/July and October/November hurricanes generally form in the Caribbean, with the August/September hurricanes usually originating off the west coast of Africa.
Hurricane Categories
Storm advisories are broadcast by four designations: • Tropical Disturbance — an area of storms which keeps its structure for at least 24 hours • Tropical Depression — an organized storm system with a defined circulation and maximum sustained surface winds up to 38 miles per hour • Tropical Storm — an organized storm system with a defined circulation and maximum sustained winds of 39 to 73 mph • Hurricane — an intense organized storm with a well-defined circulation and maximum sustained winds of 74 mph or more
Strength of hurricanes is identified by categories. Category 1 storms are 74 to 95 mph; Category 2 storms are 96 to 110 mph; Category 3 storms are 111 to 130 mph; Category 4 storms are 131 to 155 mph and Category 5 storms are winds greater than 155 mph. Hurricane watches are issued when a storm may pose a threat to a designated area within 36 hours. Hurricane warnings are issued when a storm is expected to hit within 24 hours.
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Hurricane Names The use of short, distinctive names for hurricanes, in written and oral communications, is quicker and less subject to error than older latitude-longitude identification. This is especially important in exchanging detailed storm information between hundreds of widely scattered stations, coastal bases, and ships at sea. Having two or more tropical storms at the same time could cause confusion if they were not named. For several hundred years many hurricanes in the West Indies were named after the particular saint’s day on which the hurricane occurred. For example, there was “Hurricane Santa Ana” which struck Puerto Rico on July 26, 1825, and “San Felipe” (the first) and “San Felipe” (the second) which hit Puerto Rico on September 13 in both 1876 and 1928.
It was Australian meteorologist Clement Wragge who began giving women’s names to tropical storms before the end of the 19th century. The United States began using female names for storms in 1953. In 1979 male and female names were included in lists for Atlantic storms. The 2012 hurricane names are Alberto, Beryl, Chris, Debby, Ernesto, Florence, Gordon, Helene, Isaac, Joyce, Kirk, Leslie, Michael, Nadine, Oscar, Patty, Rafael, Sandy, Tony, Valerie, William. If the year’s supply of names is depleted, the National Hurricane Center will use the Greek alphabet beginning Alpha, Beta, Gamma, Delta, etc.
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2012 Okeechobee Pennysaver Hurricane Guide
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Raulerson Hospital
A Message From Robert Lee, Chief Executive Officer Prior to any hurricane approaching the area, the staff at Raulerson Hospital takes Emergency Disaster Planning very seriously. First of all and most important, the hospital is not a shelter. During any weather emergency or any other type of disaster, the command center at the hospital is fully staffed to ensure safety for all of the patients, visitors and staff. At the present time, the hospital is preparing for the coming hurricane season by increasing
its food, water, medication and other supplies necessary to continue independent operation. The hospital has a 750kw generator that can supply electricity to the entire facility, a backup water supply, and advanced communication equipment. The hospital is fully hurricane-shuttered, and hurricane-impact doors and windows are installed throughout the facility. The key to preparedness is planning ahead to cover all possible emergencies that may occur.
American Red Cross Okeechobee Service Center A Message From Disaster Specialist Charles Parker The American Red Cross Okeechobee Service Center staff is proud to be a part of hurricane preparedness in Okeechobee. The purpose of
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the Red Cross is to provide relief to survivors of disasters and help people prevent, prepare for and respond to emergencies. Osceola Middle School and South Elementary School are certified Red Cross shelters, staffed by trained Red Cross volunteers. During a disaster, the local American Red Cross is in direct contact with the Office of Emergency Management in Okeechobee as well as with the regional offices in Stuart and West Palm Beach. For questions, brochures and information, call (863) 7632488.
Assisted Living Centers A Message From Director Diane Wood
Grand Oaks Assisted living Facility, a concrete building with impact-resistant windows, is built to withstand hurricanes. In the event an evacuation is ordered, a safe place has been predetermined. Grand Oaks will be staffed with needed personnel in case of any emergency, with the Grand Oaks Bus and VNA Mobile Unit on standby. This is not a shelter for the general public. Please feel free to call Diane Wood, Administrator, at 863-824-6770 with any questions.
2012 Okeechobee Pennysaver Hurricane Guide
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2012 Okeechobee Pennysaver Hurricane Guide
Office of Emergency Management A Message From Director Mitch Smeykal
If disaster strikes Okeechobee County we all need to be prepared. Disaster can strike at any time, with or without warning. The Okeechobee County Emergency Management Office encourages all residents to take the time now to prepare themselves and their families for the hazards we may face as a community and state. This includes having a 72-hour supply of food and water for family and pets, medications, important papers etc. A complete supply list as well as other items related to disasters and emergencies can be found at www. okeechobeeeoc.com, www.FloridaDisaster. org and www.ready.gov. There are also tools on these websites to assist you in building your family disaster plan. Emergency information will also be broadcast on local radio and television stations across the region. For radio information alerts tune to; WOKC-AM 1570, WOKC-FM 100.9 and WWFR-FM in Okeechobee, WQCS-FM in Fort
Pierce, and WAFC-FM in Clewiston. For television information alerts: WPTV News Ch.5, WPBF Ch.25 and WPEC News 12. Check with your local cable or satellite provider for channel location. We will also be tracking events and post updates on our website www.okeechobeeeoc. com, and on our Twitter feed and Facebook page. Each can be followed or viewed at @ okeechobeeeoc on Twitter and Okeechobee Emergency Management on Facebook. Any organization that would like to have a presentation by the Okeechobee County Emergency Management Office concerning hurricanes, tornados, flooding, terrorism, hazardous materials or disaster preparedness in general should call Mitch Smeykal at (863) 763-3212x5001. All-Hazards Guides in English and Spanish are available at the EOC office, 707 NW 6th St. and at businesses throughout the county.
Local Radio WOKC—en Español, WAFC
A Message From General Manager Wayne Cunningham and evacuation routes and advise you on how In the event of a storm, WOKC FM 100.9, WOKC to prepare your home and family, including AM 1570 and (Spanish) WAFC FM 106.1, are pets. During the storm WOKC and WAFC will in constant contact with Okeechobee’s Emerbroadcast safety advice, continuous storm gency Operations Center, the National Hurriupdates including force, wind speed and cocane Center and state and local officials. We ordinates and news of what is happening in will work around the clock to provide local our community. When we are clear of danger residents with the important information they we will tell you how our area has been affectneed. As soon as a storm is forecast, WOKC ed, how to receive assistance and how people and WAFC will go into Emergency Broadcast can volunteer to help others. Mode. We have the ability to switch to emergency power and remain on the air 24/7. Don’t wait for a storm before preparing. Now Unlike coastal media, we are Okeechobee’s is the time to gather supplies, including a only local voice; we know this area and care portable radio tuned to WOKC or WAFC. about our local residents.Before the storm both stations will broadcast shelter locations www.okeechobeepennysaver.com Page 11
Okeechobee County School District A Message From Superintendent of Schools Ken Kenworthy Safety of our students is our number one priority any time during the year. Preparing for hurricane season is but one area in which Okeechobee County Schools stand ready to help not only our students but their families as well. The district Emergency Plan outlines preventative safety measures that school and district personnel follow on a day-to-day basis as well as when a storm is pending. In the event a storm is approaching, decisions for safe travel and school closings are made by the Superintendent of Schools after consultation with emergency management and law enforcement personnel. School buses must be pulled off the road when winds persist at 35 miles per hour. When a storm is imminent and schools must be
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closed, students and staff are notified via an automated calling system that reaches all telephone numbers in the school’s database. Getting students back in school after a storm is our main concern. The same automated calling system is used to notify students and staff when schools will reopen as well. It is very important that parents make sure the school has correct phone numbers so they can receive emergency messages. Once students are back to school, parents can return to work and our community regains a sense of normalcy and routine.
Okeechobee County Animal Control A Message From Officer Gary Barber Before the storm arrives have a plan of action in place. Be aware that city and county ordinances require all cats, dogs and ferrets over four months of age to have a rabies vaccine. If you evacuate in a hurricane, do not leave your animal alone, either inside or outside your home. If you cannot take them, leave your pets with a responsible person. If you take your animal with you, be sure to take a five-day food and water supply for each animal as well as utensils, bowls and litter bags, medications, a picture of your animal and a cage for each pet. Place your name and phone number on all belongings with permanent marker. Before the storm, have your pet micro-chipped; vets generally check for chips in lost animals. Most shelters/motels will not accept a pet without proof of a current rabies vaccine. Take the time NOW to gather such proof and put it with your hurricane emergency kit should it be needed in the event of a storm. If your pet is not vaccinated, have it done as soon as possible. Advice about exotic pets is available from Sue Arnold at (863) 763-4630. For additional help and information, call Animal Control at (863) 357-3225 or visit www.hsus. org.
2012 Okeechobee Pennysaver Hurricane Guide
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2012 Okeechobee Pennysaver Hurricane Guide
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Preparation Equals Safety What To Do As A Hurricane Nears
Home Preparation Water
Sterilize your bathtub, pans, jugs and bottles with a 1:10 bleach solution, then fill them with water. Wait for official word before resuming use of your water system after the storm. If you must evacuate your home, turn off the water supply before leaving to avoid damage from burst pipes; unplug your water heater and turn off your automatic sprinkler system.
First Aid Assemble bandages, adhesive tape, antiseptic, alcohol and other articles that might be needed in an emergency. Also include toilet paper and sanitary supplies.
Food Supply Stock any canned foods that can be eaten without heating, non-refrigerated carton milk, cereals, energy bars, a can opener and canned heat or propane stove for cooking. Prior to the storm’s arrival, turn freezer and refrigerator controls to the highest level.
Lighting Stock candles, lamps, flashlights or lanterns and the batteries, propane, kerosene, matches or other means to power them..
Cleaning Have a supply of cloths, towels and mops to absorb rain-driven water and to use at windows and doors.
Communication Have a portable radio, a car charger for your cell phone or personal electronic device and at least one corded phone as cordless phones won’t work if electricity is down.
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Outdoor Prep Take down antennas and awnings, take in garbage cans, portable outdoor storage units, potted plants, garden tools and lawn furniture. No tree trimming is allowed once an alert is issued. Put up shutters on windows and doors. Putting tape on windows serves no purpose.
Transportation Be sure your car is fully operational. Check and fill tires, and keep the gas tank full as gas pumps won’t work without electricity.
Generators Generators must never be used indoors, in attached garages or next to air-intake windows because they emit carbon monoxide, a deadly colorless, odorless and tasteless poison gas. Use only in a well-ventilated, dry area outside the home. Check instructions issued with your generator as to its capacity to power appliances. Do not store fuel indoors. Never refuel a generator while it is operating; allow it to cool down before refueling. Keep a fire extinguisher nearby. When operating a fire extinguisher, always point it at the base of the flames, not at the flame itself.
Mobile Homes The main objective of mobile home residents is to seek shelter elsewhere if a hurricane or tornado warning has been given. Follow the preparation instructions for regular housing. Disconnect your electric, gas, sewer and water lines. Leave your water faucets open so they can drain. Check your tie-downs. Mobile homes are extremely vulnerable to strong winds. If your mobile home does not have tie-downs, get them installed immediately.
2012 Okeechobee Pennysaver Hurricane Guide
Personal Protection
After The Hurricane
Assemble a list of important phone numbers, including an out-of-town contact to which all family members can report; make sure everyone is aware of this contact number. Make a “survival box” with copies of important papers (auto registration, licenses, address book, credit cards, personal identification, insurance policies and the phone number of your agent), medicines and a seven-day supply of cash (ATM machines won’t work without electricity). Include spare phone, hearing aid and wheelchair batteries and eyeglasses and extra car keys. Don’t go outside until the all-clear is given. Downed power lines are common; high water can conceal potholes, lakes and canal edges.
After the hurricane has passed and it’s safe to go outside, don’t touch loose or dangling wires. Don’t step in pools of water where such wires may be grounded. Don’t touch trees in contact with downed power lines. Stay away from areas that have been hit hard by the storm; sightseers are an interference for rescue workers. Inventory damage to your own property. Report fallen wires and broken water and gas lines to the proper authorities. For water, call the Okeechobee Utility Authority at (863) 763-9460. For electric, call FPL at (800) 226-3545.
During The Hurricane
For gas, call Central Gas at (863) 763-3915, Ferrellgas at (863) 763-7557 or Glades Gas at (863) 763-2114.
Stay indoors. Hurricanes are circular storms with a calm hole in the center, known as the eye. Winds in the approaching storm blow from one direction. As the eye passes over, the winds then blow from the opposite direction. Wind and rain may stop for as little as a few minutes or as long as a half hour or more as the eye passes over. The “backside” winds are frequently of greater force than before. If the electricity goes off, use flashlights instead of candles or kerosene lamps when possible. Never use a barbecue grill indoors, and be careful with cooking flames. Use your telephone for emergencies only. Continue to conserve refrigeration; open the refrigerator/freezer door as little as possible. Continue to listen to radio or television for updates. Be aware that information about Okeechobee is infrequent on coastal stations. Local information is best found on 100.9 WOKC FM or 1570 WOKC AM and (Spanish) WAFC FM 106.1. Locate and mark these on your radio dial for quick reference. Remain indoors until the official all-clear is given.
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Hurricane Insurance Questions You Should be Asking Yourself Contributed by Lowell Pritchard We all hope that the hurricanes will pass us by again this year. However, if hurricanes do strike us, there are important Homeowner Insurance points you should evaluate to be sure coverage is adequate and correct. Negligence in keeping your Homeowners Policy current can be very costly at the time of a loss. Here are a few tips to help you come through a loss without horrific surprises. 1. If your policy property limits are too low, as compared to the replacement value of your home, you could be subject to a significant coinsurance penalty if a loss occurs. Make sure that any additions or improvements that you have made to your home are included in the value of your home as shown in the policy dollar limits for your home. In today’s economy, the cost to replace your home is very likely to exceed its market value. 2. Carefully consider placing Flood Insurance on your home. Even if you are not in a flood zone, you could be subject to flooding. Often, storm sewers will plug with debris, critical storm sewer pumps will fail or, in Okeechobee, the dike could fail and lead to flooding in places which never flooded before. If you are not in a hazardous Flood Zone, the insurance is relatively cheap and affordable. Homeowners insurance does not cover flooding. 3. Ordinance of Law Coverage is often misunderstood and many times homeowners are not even aware of this endorsement. Some companies offer coverage automatically at 25% of the Limits used on the home. Some offer endorsements to raise that coverage to 50%. Replacement Cost Value (RCV), by definition, contemplates rebuilding your home exactly the way the home was at the time of loss. As building codes change over the years, it is common for coverage to be lacking in regard to the latest codes. The last major building code changes were made in 2002 and if you have a home that is older than that, you will need to check out this coverage. Even if you have a new home and suffer partial
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damage, Coverage “A” will provide coverage for the value of the undamaged portion of the structure rendered unusable and valueless by a building inspector applying an ordinance or law. A homeowner policy pays only for the damaged portion of the home. If after a loss, a code enforcement officer requires the undamaged portion torn down, you will be required to pay the cost of rebuilding that remaining portion of the structure. A Homeowner Policy without this endorsement does not cover the undamaged part of the building that is condemned. Coverage “B” covers the cost to tear down the undamaged part of the building and to remove the resulting debris from the site. Coverage “C” covers the increased cost of construction to bring the structure up to code. On Commercial Policies, an endorsement is available to provide for an increased period of restoration to meet code enforcement requirements. On a Personal Lines Policy, Loss of Use coverage generally provides that added time. 4. Concerning personal items, be aware that certain items such as guns, securities, antiques, jewelry, fine arts etc. have little or no coverage on a homeowner policy without a special endorsement covering their value. It is wise to inventory and video your personal belongings and store that video at a different location. Do not wait until it is too late to evaluate and take care of the items listed above. Once a hurricane enters a prescribed longitude and latitude specified by your insurance company, all binding (changing) of property insurance is on hold until after the threat passes. That can be as much a week or more before the hurricane actually makes landfall. It is critical to your financial, as well as your physical well-being, that you plan well in advance for the next hurricane. Wishing you, and your family, a safe and secure hurricane season. Lowell Pritchard, General Lines Agent – President, Pritchards and Associates, Inc.
2012 Okeechobee Pennysaver Hurricane Guide
Waste Management BEFORE THE STORM Do yard trimming before the storm season. Avoid conducting yard maintenance when there is a named storm with a predicted Florida landfall.
AFTER THE STORM The Okeechobee Board of County Commissioners will select a storm debris collection contractor. Okeechobee County and Okeechobee County Emergency Management will provide regular updates on storm-related matters and debris collection in the local newspapers and other media outlets. Waste Management will resume regular household garbage collection services as soon as it is
Visiting Nurse Association A Message From Branch Manager Diane Wood The Visiting Nurse Association of Florida (208 SE Park St.) will have a nurse on site during a hurricane emergency activation. The VNA will have a limited amount of medical supplies in its office in case of an emergency, and would be glad to assist in any way possible. The VNA has a mobile clinic; the staff has completed FEMAcertified courses and has participated in local emergency response planning. Call (863) 3572197 or e-mail diane.wood@vnaflorida.org with any questions or concerns.
deemed safe to do so. Do not mix waste types. Keep the following separate: yard trash, household trash, furniture, appliances and construction and demolition debris. Do not place any debris on or near fences, mailboxes, power lines, power poles, work meters, phone boxes or under low-hanging trees. All debris must be placed on the nearest county maintained right-of-way (in front of a home) for collection. The Okeechobee landfill will also be open as soon as it is safe to operate. Residents can always bring their waste to the landfill if they wish to dispose of it immediately. Normal gate rates apply.
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Preparing Your Vehicle Sponsored by Total Roadside Services, Inc. Your vehicle is an important part of hurricane preparedness, not just a “last-minute escape”. Having a center with 24-hour service is an important consideration. Decide before a storm comes on the provider you believe will best care for your vehicle and place his business card or phone number in your glove box. BEFORE THE STORM Have a check made of mechanical components, liquid levels and tire dependability and be sure these are maintained throughout the storm season. Make sure you have a spare tire. Maintain a half tank of gas at all times during the storm season so you are ready for emergency evacuation. Stock your car with an emergency kit contain-
ing basic first-aid supplies, water, raingear, gloves, a tire inflation kit and snacks. If you have a recreational vehicle, have it checked as above. DURING THE STORM Watch for downed power lines and tree debris as both can conceal dangers. Do not drive through any standing water. There are many canals and roadside ditches which border area roads. Road edges may not be defined. Listen to local radio for evacuation directions as some roads may be closed. Total Roadside Services will be glad to assist with pre-storm checks.
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2012 Okeechobee Pennysaver Hurricane Guide
Okeechobee County
Preparing Your Motorhome Contributed by Jeff Sirum of Alex Sirum GMC Motorhomes Local residents of Okeechobee know we have been hurricane free for almost eight years. For many of us the scars and memories of Francis, Jean and others still remain yet we often do not take our hurricane season seriously. If you are fortunate enough to own a motorhome you can enjoy a greater level of preparedness than other residents IF you take steps now. Preparing for a storm is not difficult and will greatly add to your comfort and safety if a storm does come. Whether you decide to evacuate or stay in the area, having a motorhome will allow you and your family many options including a dry roof over your head. In the current economic environment many motorhomes see little or no use. Therefore:
1. Fill up with fresh gas and an additive, like Stabil, to reduce the chance of a fuel- related problem.
2. Check and top off all fluids: oil, transmission and brake fluid, antifreeze, windshield washer fluid, etc. 3. Check or fill the propane tank. 4. Examine and properly inflate all tires including the spare. 5. Flush and refill the fresh water tank. Verify that the water pump works without being hooked to the city water pressure hose. 6. Drain holding tanks. 7. Test run all interior appliances, especially the roof AC, stove and refrigerator. If the power is out, these will become your best friend. 8. Test run the electric generator. Having the power generator in good condition will mean electricity when needed. 9. Check all batteries. The coach (house) batteries become very important if you must become self-contained for an extended period. 10. Test drive the Motorhome for at least 20-25 miles (sometimes problems don’t show themselves until the unit is well warmed up). 11. A well stocked Motorhome should include all the items recommended by the local Emergency Operations Center as well as any personal items to keep you comfortable before, during and after a storm.
12. If you prefer, bring your Motorhome to Alex Sirum GMC Motorhomes and let us assure its safety and reliability.
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Preparing Your Yard Sponsored by Nunez Lawn Care & Landscaping, Inc. Preparing your home for a storm involves not just the structure, but the yard surrounding it. A licensed nurseryman can help prepare your yard in advance of a storm by trimming trees and disposing of yard debris. Dense, untrimmed trees do not allow the wind to pass through them and are more apt to break, allowing branches to become missiles which can damage property or your home. Improper trimming can leave your landscape looking worse as it re-grows. Do not place yard debris at the curb prior to an imminent storm as waste companies discontinue pickup within days of a storm. Store all exterior pots and ornamental items or have them prepped for storage. Advance contact with your nursery will help assure having help when needed. This will also put you in priority position after the storm should your yard need attention or cleanup such as tree removal. We will be glad to help.
HOME DECOR - GIFTS ANTIQUES
505 NE Park St. Okeechobee, FL CUSTOM METAL BLACK SMITHING
Caring. Connecting. Community. A wise woman once had a dream to change the lives of women for the better. Her hope was so contagious that, one person at a time, her dream spread around the world. Today, nearly 50 years later, millions have been touched by the legacy that Mary Kay Ash left. I’m proud to share in her commitment of caring and connecting in communities — just like ours — to help make a difference.
Gayle Molyneaux
Independent Senior Sales Director www.marykay.com/gaylemolyneaux 561-801-1336 Page 22
2012 Okeechobee Pennysaver Hurricane Guide
Going To A Shelter If you must evacuate or choose to go to a shelter, take with you identification and insurance papers, chairs, blankets, food, snacks and water, medical supplies, games for the children, change of clothes, flashlight, infant needs and your “survival kit” (see “personal protection,” page 17). Do not bring pets, alcoholic beverages, tobacco products, weapons or valuables to a shelter. Decide on and drive by a shelter well in advance of a storm so you will be familiar with its location. Shelter space is often limited, so have a second site in mind in case the one you plan to use fills. If you are disabled or have a serious medical condition, you are eligible for special help, including transportation to a shelter.
Pet-Friendly Lodging If you cannot remain in your home during a storm, several local motels accept animals. Due to limited availability, it is necessary to call ahead and reserve space. Don’t wait until the last minute. Each has a pet charge or deposit. The following are pet-friendly motels:
Budget Inn ($15.) 201 S. Parrott Ave. (863) 763-3185
Economy Inn ($10.) 507 N. Parrott Ave. (863) 763-1148
Flamingo Motel
Ridge Market
($5.) 3225 Hwy. 441SE (863) 763-1020
Pier II Motel ($10.) 2200 Hwy. 441SE (863) 763-8003
Rimcanal Motel
4101 Hwy. 441S (863) 763-6100
Lakeport Motel
Travelodge Suites
($10.) 11700 Hwy. 78W (863) 946-2020
OPEN DURING HURRICANES
Lakeview Inn & Suites
($100. Refundable) 1422 Hwy. 441SE (863) 467-2737
(Dogs Only) ($10.)
However, prior to the storm those with health nees must make arrangements with the Okeechobee County Health Department by calling (863) 462-5819. Let a friend or relative know which shelter you will be using. Pets will not be allowed in the shelter. Many of the school district facilities are used as shelters. It is expected that those going to a shelter bring enough food and water for three days along with appropriate bedding. Depending on the duration of the storm and availability of food, snacks may be provided by the school food service only while supplies last. The shelter is not a motel or a restaurant; the shelter is a lifeboat. See a listing of pet-friendly motels on this page.
($25.) 1527 Hwy. 441SE (863) 824-3431
• Meats • Groceries • • Ice • Water • And More 1124 Buckhead Ridge Road Okeechobee, Florida 34974
863-357-4884
www.okeechobeepennysaver.com
Page 23
Repairing After the Storm Contributed by Chris Scruggs, CMS Builders, Inc. Rebuilding your home after a storm can be stressful. If you need to hire a contractor, please keep these important points in mind Of prime importance, make sure they are licensed and insured, not a “ fly-by-night” contractor. The hiring of an unlicensed contractor is illegal in the state of Florida and all work performed by the unlicensed contractor becomes the liability of the owner. The work of unlicensed operators could even make you responsible for problems with your neighbor’s property. Request a copy of the contractor’s license and some form of personal identification. If their name does not appear on the license they present, they may not be legitimate. Most of the time, permits will be required; be leery of any individual that tries to convince you otherwise. You may contact your local building department to verify permitting requirements. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. A qualified individual will have no problem answering. If you wish to verify a contractor, you can do so at myflorida.com or by calling your local building department, or for help, call CMS Builders at 863-801-2929.
Preparing Your Pool Sponsored by Gator Pools of Okeechobee, Inc. Your pool is a big investment, protect it:
863-467-8835
24 Hr. Emergency Service
TOLL FREE NUMBER
866.747.WELD (9353)
www.knmobilewelding.com If the motor is exposed and you live in a flood zone, remove and store it; if not, wrap with a waterproof cover. Remove and store automatic pool cleaners, blankets and covers. Super chlorinate or double chemicals normally used to reduce contamination and insect infestation. Stock up on chemicals to ‘shock’ pool after the storm. Stores may not be open after the storm. Do not use the pool to store yard articles as they may harm the finish Call your pool provider for further pre-storm advice.
Do not drain or lower the water level. If the ground around the pool gets saturated, the shell could pop up out of the ground (even concrete pools). The water provides the weight to keep it in place. If they are not secure in high winds, have a professional remove diving boards or slides
Page 24
ASME Certified - Aluminum Certified Stainless Certified
2012 Okeechobee Pennysaver Hurricane Guide
Okeechobee County Shelters Osceola Middle School 825 SW 28th St., capacity 650 WILL OPEN FIRST South Elementary School 2468 SW Seventh Ave., capacity 500 WILL OPEN SECOND The following shelters will open only as needed All residents should check the Okeechobee County Emergency Management website to ensure a shelter is open BEFORE they proceed to a shelter. www.okeechobeeeoc.com North County
Fort Drum Community Church, 32415 Hwy. 441 N, capacity 80 Okeechobee High School, 2800 Hwy. 441 N, capacity 2,000 Seminole Elementary School, 2690 NW 42nd Ave., capacity 700 Yearling Middle School, 925 NW 23rd Lane, capacity 700
BATTERY
North Elementary School, 3000 NW 10th Terr., capacity 500 Okeechobee Health Department, 1728 NW Ninth Ave., capacity 50 (medical needs shelter), Prior registration is suggested.
SE Section
American Legion Post 64, 501 SE Second St., capacity 200 Everglades Elementary School, 3725 SE Eighth St., capacity 700
SW Section
First Baptist Church, 401 SW Fourth St., capacity 65 Freshman Center Auditorium, 610 SW Second Ave., capacity 660 Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 701 SW Sixth St., capacity 500 New Endeavor High School 575 SW 29th St., capacity 500 Buckhead Ridge VFW Post, Hwy. 78 W
TIRE
OF OKEECHOBEE
Home of Honest, Reliable Service
Servicing & Installing Alignments on Cars & Pick-ups
Oil Change - Batteries for Everything - Brake Jobs - AC Work Bug Shields - Truck Accessories - Fuel Pumps - Tool Boxes & More
New & Used Tires For: All Farm Equipment Truck - Car - Lawnmower Tractor & Loader Tires
Located at
198 US 98 N.
3 Service Trucks Available 24 Hour Mobile Repair Services 772-201-1594
863-357-2431
www.okeechobeepennysaver.com
Page 25
ELLIOTT’S PAWN SHOP 863-763-5553
Okeechobee’s Oldest Pawn Shop
Family Owned and Operated since 1975
BUY * SELL * TRADE HURRICANE SEASON IS HERE!
WHY BUY NEW. WHEN WE HAVE WHAT YOU MAY NEED IN USED. WITH GREAT PRICES.
419 W. South Park St. Okeechobee, FL 43972 of Okeechobee, Inc.
Providing palliative care since 1983
For a special kind of caring in the comfort of your home or in the Hamrick Home where we provide care 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for respite, routine or intense level of care for crisis or symptom control.
Your Home-Town Hospice 411 SE 4th Street, Okeechobee, FL 34974 FOR INFORMATION VISIT OUR WEB PAGE WWW.HOSPICEOFOKEECHOBEE.ORG
A Florida non-profit and 501c(3) tax exempt corporation
Page 26
2012 Okeechobee Pennysaver Hurricane Guide
Alex Sirum GMC Motorhomes, Inc. www.gmcmh.com
service most brands of motorhomes, For Your Motorhome Needs We or help redirect you to someone who can. 863-763-1121 1800 HWY 70 East Okeechobee, Fl 34972
Full service motorhome shop.
Family owned and operated.
Extensive fully stocked RV parts and accessories store.
Serving Okeechobee over 30 years.
With nearly 20,000 sq. ft. under roof service facility.
We service most brands of RV’s motorhomes and pull trailers. We ship daily domestic and internationally. We have several employees well trained at locating hard to find parts. We ship: UPS, Fedex, USPS, Roadways, RL Gator, Yellow and others. We install and sell tow car hook ups and brake systems. We service and repair most horse trailer including w/living quarters. We are a repair shop for Onan, Honda and Generac generators. We are a Zip-Dee awning, Stowmaster, Firestone and GMC Motorhome dealer. We have been dedicated to Sales service and repair of RV’S for almost 30 years. We manufacture dozens of critical parts utilizing local machine shops and factories. Striving to sell as many as possible “Made in America” parts. By supporting the RV industry you are preserving an industry built by American workers for American families now and in the future.
Okeechobee, Florida
www.okeechobeepennysaver.com
Office 863-824-0600 Fax 863-824-0601
Page 27
It Ain’t Over ‘Til It’s “All Over” Minutes From Jail
Locally Owned and Operated
We Can Post Bonds
NATIONWIDE
Calls Are Personally Answered
24 Hours A Day 7 Days A Week
863-467-2031 ~ Habla Español Fax 863-467-1922
422 NW 3rd Street Okeechobee, FL. 34972
Servicing: Okeechobee, Martin, St. Lucie, Glades and surrounding counties.