WINk NEWS 2824 Palm Beach Blvd Fort Myers, FL 33916 239.334.1111 EDITOrS
russ kilgore Jim Farrell
CONTrIBUTOrS Scott Zedeker Janine Albert katie Walls Joey Sovine Eric Stone Wayne Sallade robert Byrne
PHOTOgrAPHY WINk News FEMA Craig Hildebrand
DESIgN & LAYOUT Nicole Stewart Scott Thomas
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Burt Spangler Phone: 239.344.5044 burt.spangler@winktv.com winknews.com for pdf version
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This publication contains general information only. The information has been gathered from various sources believed to be reliable, but not intended to be a substitute for advice from a safety expert. Contents © 2014 by: Fort Myers Broadcasting Company. All rights reserved.
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a MessaGe FrOM JIM Farrell
W
elcome to the 10-year anniversary of Hurricane Charley issue of the WINK News Hurricane Guide. Every hurricane guide stresses preparation and we will highlight the importance of being prepared again this year, but we should also reflect on the events triggered by Hurricane Charley’s arrival in SW Florida 10 years ago. Do you remember where you were on August 12 and 13, 2004? While a decade ago, I’m sure you remember those days as if they were yesterday. I remember how everything changed early in the morning on August 13 when it became clear that Charley was turning ever so slightly, but enough to take it on a heading that would make a SW Florida landfall likely. A few hours after landfall we could see that the loss form Charley was minimal in some areas but total in others. Homes were destroyed, lives were lost and a path of destruction was clearly visible from the aircraft and helicopters that were assigned to survey the region. Surely we cannot change what happened but we can prepare for a similar event. Reading through this guide is a good first step in the preparation process that we should all adopt. Look through this guide now and save it for reference if a hurricane threatens later this year. I wish I could tell you if SW Florida will be impacted this season, but that is simply not possible this far in advance. I can tell you that it is never too early to get ready. Make your checklist of needed supplies. Know where you will go if told to evacuate. Do your part to be ready for this season. Get ready! WINK News is ready. I am fortunate to lead a terrific team of meteorologists. Together we are trained and ready to guide you through any threatening weather event. The WINK News team of anchors and reporters is also experienced and ready to deliver the important information you
It’s never too early to get ready
will need before, during and after a hurricane passes through the area. As I look at the historical records, I see that there is about a 7% chance that SW Florida will be hit by a hurricane in any given year. While the probability may seem low, the cost of being hit can be very high. Charley taught us that, 10 years ago.
Jim Farrell
WINK News - chief Meteorologist
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cONTeNTs
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FeaTures
sTOrM PredIcTIONs FOr 2014 Storm names and forecast for the 2014 season
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HurrIcaNe 101 Terms, facts and charts about hurricanes
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eXclusIVe WeaTHer TecHNOlOGY WINK News, The Weather Authority, unveils the latest storm technology
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PreParING FOr THe sTOrM
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Important things to know when planning and preparing
HurrIcaNe cHarleY’s 10TH aNNIVersarY Remembering Hurricane Charley, 10 years later
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aFTer THe sTOrM Safety tips for storm cleanup
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Recalling the turn of Hurricane Charley
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eVacuaTION & sHelTers
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Shelter locations and information
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IMPOrTaNT PHONe NuMbers & resOurces All the important phone numbers and website information
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THe deadlY TurN OF cHarleY
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WINK-TV’s 60TH aNNIVersarY Over half of a century of News, WINK-TV celebrates 60 years of being first
JIM Farrell Q & a Got Questions, Jim Farrell has your hurricane answers
PREDICTIONS FOR 2014
2014 WINK News Hurricane Guide
S 2014 STORM NAMES Arthur Bertha Cristobal Dolly Edouard Fay Gonzalo Hanna Isaias Josephine Kyle Laura Marco Nana Omar Paulette Rene Sally Teddy Vicky Wilfred
outhwest Florida is well known for the white sandy beaches, abundant sunshine and warm tropical breezes that beckon thousands of visitors from frozen northern climates every winter. However, as warm winter breezes give way to frighteningly powerful summer storms, full-time residents are quickly reminded that life in paradise does not come without its draw-backs. Hurricane season, which runs from June 1 to November 30 each year, is never to be taken lightly. Hurricane seasons have borne such horrific storms as Katrina, Rita, Charley and Wilma – whose images of disaster, destruction and death will not easily be forgotten. A single hurricane has enough overwhelming power to reduce concrete walls to rubble and to tear 30-foot trees right out of the earth. DO NOT WAIT until a hurricane is gathering strength out at sea before you start making preparations. The time to act is now! Gather your supplies, make a plan for evacuation, and take steps to secure your property. This publication was assembled by WINK News and Weather teams to help you protect your family and your property. Take time now to assess the risks you face and take steps to limit those risks. Preventative measures are the best investments you can make! Keep your copy of the WINK Hurricane Guide convenient throughout the hurricane season.
9 - Tropical Storms 3 - Hurricanes 1 - Major Hurricanes
FORECAST OF ATLANTIC SEASONAL HURRICANE ACTIVITY AND LANDFALL STRIKE PROBABILITY The 2014 Atlantic basin hurricane season will have below-average activity compared with the 19812010 climatology. It appears quite likely that an El NiĂąo of at least moderate strength will develop this summer and fall. In addition, the tropical Atlantic has anomalously cooled over the past few months. We anticipate a below-average probability for major hurricanes making landfall along the United States coastline and in the Caribbean. Despite the quiet forecast, coastal residents are reminded that it only takes one hurricane making landfall to make it an active season for them. They are reminded to prepare the same for every season, regardless of how much or how little activity is predicted. (Source: Department of Atmospheric Science Colorado State University)
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Impact Windows & Doors Hurricane Shutters Service & Repairs Lanai Enclosures Plantation Shutters & Blinds Frameless Shower Enclosures
HURRICANE 101 Hurricanes are a DEADLY threat
how bad could it be?
T
ime and again, hurricanes have proven themselves to be potentially deadly storms. Yet, some still refuse to take the threat of a hurricane seriously -- instead stocking up on beer and snacks to munch on while they watch the “show!” After every recent hurricane, these are also the people who are waiting in long lines in the blazing sun for ice, food and water – or who are relying on the kindness of neighbors and friends who had the good sense
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to properly prepare for a hurricane’s aftermath. A hurricane is an awesome, powerful weather event that has the potential to destroy property and take lives. How bad could a landfalling hurricane be? A Category 3 storm can propel trees and tree limbs through windows and roofs while taking down power lines and destroying smaller homes. A Category 5 monster packs enough wallop to cause complete building failure. A storm of any size has the potential to
cause flooding just about anywhere. Hurricane Charley, made landfall in Cayo Costa on August 13, 2004. Live were lost during and after the Category 4 hurricane. Know the risks and potential for damage and do what you can to get out of harm’s way, if you’re told to do so. Remember, the better party would be the one you have AFTER the storm to celebrate your family and friends’ survival!
The Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Scale The Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Scale is a 1-5 rating based on a hurricane’s present intensity. CATEGORY
1 2 3 4 5
BAROMETRIC PRESSURE (MILLIBARS)
980-994
WINDS (MPH)
74-95 96-110 111-129 130-156 157+
965-979
945-964
Very dangerous winds will produce some damage
Devastating Extremely damage will occur dangerous winds will cause extensive damage
Possibility of getting struck by flying/ falling debris could injure or kill
Substantial risk of injury or death to people, livestock and pets due to flying/falling debris
Older mobiles (pre-1994) could be destroyed, especially if they are not anchored properly
920-944
less than 920
Catastrophic damage will occur
Catastrophic damage will occur
High risk of injury or death to people, livestock & pets due to flying/falling debris
Very high risk of injury or death to people, livestock & pets due to flying/ falling debris
Very high risk of injury/death due to flying/falling debris even if indoors
Older mobiles (pre-1994) have a very high chance of being destroyed. Newer are at risk
Nearly all older mobiles (pre-1994) will be destroyed. Most newer mobiles will sustain damage
Nearly all older and Almost complete newer mobiles will destruction of be destroyed mobile homes
Some poorly constructed homes can experience damage
Some poorly constructed homes have a high chance of damage
Poorly constructed homes can be destroyed by the removal of roof and exterior walls
Poorly constructed homes’ walls can collapse as well as loss of roof structure
High percentage of homes will be destroyed
Some building’s roof and siding coverings could be removed
Unreinforced masonry walls can collapse
High percentage of roof and siding damage
High percentage of damage to top floors. Steel frames can collapse
High percentage of buildings will destroyed
Large branches of trees will snap and shallow rooted trees can be toppled
Many shallowly rooted trees will be snapped or uprooted
Many shallowly rooted trees will be snapped or uprooted
Most trees will snap or uproot and power poles downed
Nearly all trees will snap or uproot and power poles downed
POWER & WATER
Extensive damage to powerlines and poles. Power outages for a few days
Near-total power loss is expected with outages that could last for days to weeks
Electricity and water will be unavailable for days to weeks after the storm
Power outages will last for weeks to possibly months. Most of the area will be uninhabitable for weeks
Power outages will last for weeks to possibly months. Most of the area will be uninhabitable for weeks to months
EXAMPLE
Hurricane Dolly (2008)
Hurricane Frances (2004)
Hurricane Ivan (2004)
Hurricane Charley (2004)
Hurricane Andrew (1992)
SUMMARY
PEOPLE, LIVESTOCK & PETS
MOBILE HOMES
FRAME HOMES APARTMENTS, SHOPPING CENTERS & BUILDINGS TREES
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HURRICANE 101
wind & water
S
torm surge is water that is pushed toward the shore by the force of the winds swirling around the storm. This advancing surge combines with the normal tides to create the hurricane storm surge, which can increase water levels by 15 feet or more. Wind-driven waves also can raise water levels to devastating heights – causing severe flooding in coastal areas. Because much of the densely populated U.S. Atlantic and Gulf Coast coastlines lie less than 10 feet above sea level, the danger from storm surge is tremendous. In general, the more intense the storm, and the closer a community is to the right-front quadrant of the storm, the larger the area that must be evacuated. The problem is always the uncertainty about how intense the storm will be when it finally makes landfall.
terms to know Center The vertical axis of a tropical cyclone, usually defined by the location of minimum wind or minimum pressure. Eye The relatively calm area in the center of a hurricane. It can range from 5 to more than 50 miles wide. Eye Wall A doughnut-shaped zone of the highest winds and heavy rain surrounding the eye. Feeder Bands Thunderstorms that spiral into and around the center of a tropical system. A typical storm may have three or more bands, usually 40 to 80 miles apart. Hurricane Warning Issued when hurricane conditions—winds of 74 mph or greater—are expected within 24 hours. 10
Hurricane Watch Issued when hurricane conditions are possible within 36/48 hours. Landfall When the surface center of a tropical cyclone intersects with the coastline. Major Hurricane A storm with highest winds of 111 mph or higher. Tropical Disturbance An area of thunderstorms that keeps its intensity for at least 24 hours. Tropical Storm A warm-centered, low-pressure circulation with highest sustained winds between 39 and 73 mph. Wind Shear Upper level winds that can blow the tops off hurricanes, weakening or destroying them.
Hazards
T
ropical storm-force winds are strong enough to be dangerous to those caught outside in them. Powerful, hurricane-force winds can easily destroy poorly constructed buildings and mobile homes. Debris such as signs, roofing material, and small items left outside become flying missiles in hurricanes. Extensive damage to trees, towers, water and underground utility lines (from uprooted trees), and fallen utility poles cause considerable disruption. High-rise buildings are also vulnerable to hurricane-force winds, particularly at the higher levels since wind speed tends to increase with height. Research suggests you should stay below the tenth floor, but still above any floors at risk for flooding. It is not uncommon for high-rise buildings to suffer a great deal of damage due to windows being blown out. Consequently, the areas around these buildings can be very dangerous. The strongest winds usually occur in the right side of the eye wall of the hurricane. Wind speed usually decreases significantly within 12 hours after landfall. Nonetheless, winds can stay above hurricane strength well inland. Hurricane Charley (2004), for example, battered DeSoto County (75 miles inland) with gusts to nearly 100 mph.
Storm surge is our greatest threat
When it comes to hurricanes, wind speeds do not tell the whole story. Hurricanes can produce storm surges, tornadoes, and often, inland flooding. While storm surge is always a potential threat, more people have died from inland flooding in the last 30 years. Intense rainfall is not directly related to the wind speed of tropical cyclones. In fact, some of the greatest rainfall amounts occur from weaker storms that drift slowly or stall over an area. Inland flooding can be a major threat to areas hundreds of miles from the coast when intense rain falls.
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HurrIcaNe 101
SOUTHWEST FLORIDA
EVACUATION ZONES
ZONE A ZONE B ZONE C ZONE D ZONE E
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COLLIER COUNTY DOES NOT EVACUATE BY ZONES
CHARLOTTE
LEE
COLLIER
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weather technology
Wink-TV TAKES WEATHER TO THE MAX By Robert Byrne
M
illions of people moved to this part of the country for the weather. But the same weather that is so appealing to so many can also turn dangerous quickly. Now the region’s best weather team is armed with new, cutting-edge WSI Max Weather forecasting tools to help keep viewers safe in the face of approaching severe storms.
Seeing is Believing The old saying is especially true when weather changes quickly and dramatically. WINK Chief Meteorologist Jim Farrell says “WSI Max Weather adds several key components to our on air capabilities.” He says the technology is not a replacement for years of forecasting experience and knowledge, but it does make a big difference when showing viewers the weather in ways that have never been seen on local TV in Southwest Florida until now. “We now have the ‘Magic Trak’ feature. This is a hand tracking option where the studio camera ‘sees’ the meteorologists hand, allowing us to reveal a prepared graphic to better explain a particular weather event in Southwest Florida” Farrell explains.
Viewers Can Now be Part of the WINK News Weather Team When weather systems move into the area, even the WINK News team can’t be everywhere at once, until now. “WSI Max Weather allows the WINK News meteorologists and WINK News viewers to work together toward a more accurate and rewarding on-air presentation,” according to Farrell. “Max Weather also gives us the ability to import viewer messages and pictures from Twitter and Facebook for on-air use.”
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WINK’s new Max Weather System brings upto-the-minute forecasts to your smart phone, tablet, or computer.
“Max Weather helps us prepare the most accurate forecast”
If your power, cable or TV antenna gets knocked out in a storm you can still have the WINK News Weather forecast in the palm of your hand. Farrell reminds viewers that “it is important to be informed and the WINK Weather app should be downloaded to every smart phone in Southwest Florida. It can deliver the seven day forecast, hourly forecast, temperatures and conditions, the ‘Future Track’ forecast model and ‘push’ notifications of severe weather events. This multi-functional weather tool is offered to WINK viewers as a free service.”
This App is Loaded with Up-to-TheMinute Weather Info Whether you have an Android, an iPhone or an iPad, WINK News Weather and Weather Max have you covered, whatever the weather and wherever you are. Features of the new system include: • Highly responsive interactive maps optimized for 3G and WiFi performance • Vertical and horizontal maps display with looping • NOWrad, the gold standard for radar in the weather industry • Highest resolution satellite cloud imagery available • Exclusive patent-pending Road Weather Index • Color coded weather alerts arranged by severity • Fully integrated GPS for current location awareness • Integrated compass overlay for 3GS models • Most accurate 10 day forecasts with both daily and hourly detail • Ability to easily save your favorite locations • Full featured and user tested • Earthquake plotting - tap on an earthquake to display its detail iOS 5 compatibility What all that means is that you can stay on top of any weather (or seismic event as it happens). Download the WINKWeather app now by searching “WINK Weather” in the app store on your smart phone or tablet.
A Better, More Accurate Weather Viewing Experience All this new technology does not come cheap but Farrell says it is an investment in serving the residents of Southwest Florida that is worth every penny. “The decision to invest and acquire Max Weather was based on making a better, more accurate viewing experience for all of Southwest Florida.”
Ultimately, It’s up to the Meteorologist Even with the most advanced technology, it is ultimately the knowledge and experience of Farrell and the team of WINK News meteorologists that sets WINK News Weather apart. Farrell says that “while the Max Weather system delivers many forecasting tools for the WINK News meteorologist, ultimately it is up to the meteorologist to correctly interpret the data and prepare a forecast.” Often, accuracy comes with experience and the team of WINK meteorologists have more local experience necessary to forecast any weather event than all TV compeditors combined. “Max Weather helps WINK meteorologists prepare a more accurate forecast. Accuracy means timely notification of a potentially dangerous weather event, keeping us all safer,” Farrell adds.
And even when the weather is beautiful, Max Weather lets WINK News show you things that viewers have never seen before on local Southwest Florida TV newscasts. “We can also incorporate several webcams right into our on air show sequence, including WINK News HD cameras. We can now record the WINK News HD Skycam and make a time-lapse that we can share with our viewers to review the weather of the day.”
How is the 2014 Hurricane season shaping up? According to Farrell “the upcoming hurricane season may be influenced by an El Nino event later in the summer, but it is too early to know if the season will be busy or quiet. Importantly, the WINK News team of meteorologists is prepared for whatever develops.”
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hurricane charley
10 years later
HURRICANE Charley:
Ten Years Ago, But Seems Like Yesterday
By Wayne P. Sallade, Director, Charlotte County Emergency Management
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S
ometimes I’ll wake up in the middle of the night and visions of the Hurricane Charley aftermath will be front and center in my mind. When I stop and think, I realize that almost ten years have passed since that fateful day, but the memories are as fresh as if it happened yesterday. The numbers Charley rang up are still staggering and often hard to comprehend: • • • • • • •
•
Winds gusts of 170+ mph along Marion Avenue in downtown Punta Gorda A damage total of more than $3.2 billion 11,000 residential units destroyed, half (5,500) of them manufactured homes Six of 20 Charlotte County schools destroyed A debris clean-up bill of better than $63 million More than 27,000 roofs taken off of homes and businesses All three County hospitals suffered major roof and structural damage and had to close Four County fire stations destroyed
Despite those incredible losses, only FOUR people perished as a direct result of Charley’s path over Punta Gorda, Charlotte Harbor, Port Charlotte and Deep Creek. His small size (about 30 miles wide) and tiny eye (five miles), contributed to a very narrow path of destruction. A bigger storm would have done far more damage and would most likely have produced a killer storm surge, forcing the Gulf of Mexico water into many Southwest Florida communities.
“If you’re going to be in a state hit by 4 hurricanes in 6 weeks, hope you are first!”
This community has experienced what I’ve called, “Urban Renewal by Disaster” these past ten years. New hotels, restaurants, professional centers, churches, schools, fire stations and stronger hospital buildings are all a result of Charley’s hour-long onslaught here in Charlotte County. Sure, the physical scars are long gone and sparkling new buildings continue to go up on lots made vacant by this monster. However, the mental images remain for many and continue to haunt those who listened as Charley passed overhead, while they huddled with family in hallways and walk-in closets. When the ripping and tearing sounds ended, they emerged to see devastation they never thought possible. Outside help poured in from all directions and at one point, more than 10,000 people working to restore power, cover roofs, maintain security, clear debris and help rebuild, had descended on the Charlotte County Airport, a regional recovery center. It took 13 days for crews from more than two dozen states to assist Florida Power and Light with restoring 97,000 customer accounts without power across the County.
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HurrIcaNe cHarleY
10 Years laTer
The initial phases of recovery centered on power and water restoration, followed closely by plans to provide temporary disaster housing. County parcels were pressed into use for travel trailer sites and a mobile-home village that housed 551 units. This temporary housing is maybe the biggest challenge facing disaster planners in a post-storm environment. Nothing you do will satisfy everyone and most come away thinking there must be some better way. Dignitaries, from Congressmen to U.S. Senators to President George W. Bush, would visit the area for a first-hand look at the task we faced in returning the community to its pre-storm condition, or better. Nationally-known media personalities would walk our streets and almost nightly one local official or another would be a guest on news or talk programs. Florida Governor Jeb Bush would visit us seven times over three months, despite having to deal with three more hurricanes hitting his state over the six weeks that followed Charley’s visit.
Teams of Emergency Managers arrived almost immediately from Sarasota and Manatee Counties and later North Carolina, to relieve those of us impacted by the storm. This mutual aid was evident across the landscape, as firefighters, police, utility workers, health care professionals and others would come in droves to do whatever was necessary to fix that which was broken or destroyed. Now-FEMA Administrator Craig Fugate, then the Director of the Florida Division of Emergency Management, would arrive the next morning (8/14) and stay for three weeks until Hurricane Frances arrived along the Florida East Coast. Ivan would follow two weeks later, making landfall as a Category 3 storm near Pensacola and Hurricane Jeanne would wrap up the hurricane hit parade on September 25, 2004, making landfall near Stuart, FL, just two
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miles from where Frances had crossed the coast earlier in the month. As I’ve said many times, after watching our helpers and their resources fade away as more storms arrived, “If you’re going to be in a state hit by four hurricanes in six weeks, hope you are first!” Today, Punta Gorda and the other Charlotte County neighborhoods scarred by Charley are shimmering examples of resilience. They reflect a population that wouldn’t sit around whining and moaning about what others weren’t doing and just got it done. They didn’t wait to make the changes required to strengthen the building stock of this area. They understand that hurricanes have and will come again. Most importantly, they understand that you do what you’re told, when you’re told to do it and you will survive to be part of the solution and not a statistic.
tHE DEADLY TURN OF CHARLEY
Making the call that saved lives
By Russ Kilgore, WINK-TV News Director
time and survivors not prepared for the misery they would endure in the days and weeks that followed. Anyone who lived to tell about it has a story. But the one being told here is about the TV weatherman. Some of you remember it like it was yesterday. You paid attention to what WINK Chief Meteorologist Jim Farrell said in the 24 hours leading up to Charley’s landfall.
S
trange, isn’t it? How is it that winds from an African Savanna, or rain showers in the Caribbean or Gulf of Mexico can become such a force of nature that lives are changed; lives are lost; coastlines are changed indeed history itself is changed. Such is the case with hurricanes. They have a place in nature, actually. They help balance the distribution of heat in the earth’s atmosphere, without which global warming would take on a whole new meaning. Hurricanes are essentially heat engines. They pull stored heat energy out of the ocean and blow it toward the poles. They’re amazing really, until they interact with us. Nearly a decade ago, a hurricane of historic proportion crossed our shore. It began as an unremarkable tropical wave scampering into the sea from western Africa. The date was August 4th, 2004. The fate of tens of thousands of residents living in Southwest Florida was sealed at that moment. We just didn’t know it.
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Nine days later, the unremarkable was a raging hurricane named Charley. There’s no such thing as a normal hurricane. But you could say Charley was abnormal. It did things hurricanes don’t often do. It did things the National Hurricane Center did not forecast it to do. Bearing down on the west coast of Florida, Charley rapidly intensified. The storm jumped from a category 2 hurricane to a category 4 “major” hurricane in only three hours. The barometric pressure dropped 18 millibars and Charley’s winds climbed from 110 to 145 mph. Landfall would not be Tampa as most forecasters predicted and many Floridians assumed. It would be Charlotte Harbor instead; our own backyard. Ironically, it was Friday the 13th. The rest is history. There are statistics in which we wish we were not a number; losses we did not want to endure; and piles of rubble that that led to a rebuilding we never wanted. Then there is the human toll: lives taken before their
Directors of the National Hurricane Center have said for years that predicting the intensity of hurricanes is the weak link in tropical forecasting. Though it’s not an exact science, experts are usually pretty good at predicting generally where a storm will go and roughly when it will get there. But they struggle to understand exactly when and why a storm will intensify. Once there was a Charley, Jim Farrell was paying close attention. “Long before this hurricane was in the Gulf of Mexico I was concerned; I was seeing a meteorological set up that could produce surprises.” Just four months before Charley, Jim spent a week at the Bahamian Weather Conference with Dr. Steve Lyons, a leading hurricane researcher and on-air tropical expert for The Weather Channel. The two spent hours discussing Dr. Lyons’ theory of “rapid developers” which are hurricanes that jump two categories in 18 hours or less. Jim says that on August 12th, he saw it. “I saw the set-up he (Dr. Lyons) identified that would allow Charley to strengthen 2 categories in as little as 18 hours. Citing Dr. Lyon’s research on air the night of August 12, I told our viewers that Charley, then a Category 2 could strengthen to a Category 4 before landfall. I was watching for three clues that Charley’s final act had begun. First, I would see Charley jog to the right
(east). I would see Charley begin to accelerate in forward speed. And then, only in the last hours before landfall could the process of rapid intensification begin.” The only question for Jim was simple but critical: when? When would it begin to interact with the trough he was watching; the one he knew would force a turn and could turn Charley into one of Dr. Lyons’ “rapid developers”? The timing would determine whether a category 2 storm went somewhere else, or an explosive Hurricane Charley came here. The National Hurricane Center was sticking with a forecast cone showing a centerline targeting Tampa Bay. Jim was suspect all along. Could Charley go south of that centerline, yet technically still be within the margin of error? Sure. But margin of error is a marginal concept. It works well for opinion polls. But it’s not particularly comforting when the margin might be the measure between life and death. As the sun came up on Friday the 13th, Jim was back in the WINK Weather Center. Around 9AM, meteorologist Marissa Oaks said “Jim, you need to look at this”. Jim’s stomach went south, his adrenalin went north- the storm jogged east. Was this the final act? With his experience he knew a wobble was not necessarily a turn. If it’s a wobble, Tampa is still in play. If not, it’s coming here. It was a sobering moment. By 9:45AM, Jim saw all he needed to see. He told Meteorologist Scott Zedeker, “It’s coming here”. Scott asked, “Are you sure you want to say that on the air?” A simple “Yes” was his answer. Jim went on TV with the news his viewers needed to know but did not want to hear: Charley was aiming at the Lee-Charlotte County line- give or take a few miles- and could strengthen on the way. As the clock struck 11AM, the barometric pressure was dropping like a rock and Charley’s intensity was shooting upward. By 1PM Jim’s prophecies were validated as the National Hurricane Center declared Charlotte Harbor the likely point of landfall. At 2PM Charley was a category 4 hurricane. By
5:30PM, clocks in and around Charlotte Harbor came to a grinding halt. Wind gusts of 170 mph literally froze the hands of time, but the ensuing devastation could not be stopped and wouldn’t be fully realized until morning. Jim Farrell saw something others didn’t. Charley came ashore within the margin of error. But Jim’s experience provided people the margin of extra time to take action. It would be more than an hour later before TV meteorologists from Fort Myers to Tampa followed his lead. It would be a full three hours before the National Hurricane Center declared Charlotte Harbor to be ground-zero. Jim was ahead of his time.
They remind us to prepare, to be aware to leaveeven if it’s an inconvenience to do so, or we think we will get lucky and somebody else won’t. And here’s a tip: The first 72 is on you. 72 hours. Can you last that long after the storm without help or additional supplies? If you’re not adequately prepared, you will become a victim, or worse yet, a fatality. Then your life is reduced to bright orange number spray painted by a search team on what’s left of your home. Let us all prepare ourselves and our families so as not to be a victim; to live-and rebuild. You can’t replace a loved one; they can’t replace you. When you’re gone, you are just gone. You are then, a statistic.
Does it take guts to say what you know, when you know it- when the National Hurricane Center isn’t saying it? Yep. He knew what he knew, knew it needed to be said and knew what he was talking about. It’s a confidence that only comes with experience. He did it because the consequences of being right meant the difference between life and death for people who didn’t yet believe an intensifying hurricane was headed their way. Imagine you get extra time to evacuate to a structure that will still be there when your manufactured home is blown to smithereens. Imagine you have more time to get to higher ground or move a handicapped loved one to a shelter of last resort. And then imagine- you don’t. Had Jim waited on the Hurricane Center, more people would be gone. Not just gone as in left town, but gone as in never coming back; as in there would be a funeral if they find the body or a memorial service if they don’t. After the storm, the emails and phone calls began to come in. Each was profound but all of them said something like this: I left in the nick of time because Jim Farrell told me it was coming here. I got to go back to the rubble that was once my home and I wasn’t buried in it. A TV weather man saved lives. It is life and death. Storms like Charley, Katrina and Super-Storm Sandy collectively scream at us not to be complacent.
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PreParING FOr THe sTOrM
PrePare YOur HOuse
H
urricane protection can involve a variety of changes to your house and property – changes that can vary in cost and complexity. A professional contractor licensed to work in Florida should carry out complicated or large-scale changes that affect the structure of your house or its electrical wiring or plumbing. However, there are several projects and tasks homeowners can do on their own to protect their homes against a hurricane.
Know Your Home’s Vulnerabilities ROOF
Take steps to protect your property
The roof of your house is most vulnerable to damage from high winds. Proper roof construction is essential. A small investment made before a storm hits can save thousands in future damage. Have your roof inspected today by a qualified building professional to determine if reinforcement is necessary. WINDOWS
dO-IT-YOurselF HOMe PreParaTIONs • Windows, Doors, Roof – Protect all windows and doors, as well as the garage door and roof. • Electricity – Unplug appliances – especially television sets – and turn off electricity (except refrigerator) and turn off the main water valve. Turn the refrigerator and freezer to the coldest settings. • Outdoors – Store outdoor objects such as lawn furniture, toys, garden tools, grills, and tractors inside; anchor objects that cannot be brought inside but that could be wind-tossed. Remove outdoor antennas. • Sheds – Securely anchor all storage sheds and other outbuildings to a permanent foundation, or anchor to ground.
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Installing storm shutters over all exposed windows and other glass surfaces is one of the easiest and most effective ways to protect your home. Cover all windows, french doors, glass doors and skylights. There are many types of manufactured storm shutters available. Plywood shutters that you make yourself, if installed properly, can offer much protection from flying debris during a hurricane. DOORS
Homes with double-entry doors usually have one door that is active and one that is inactive. The bolts or pins that secure most doors are not strong enough to withstand hurricane force winds. Check with your local building supplies retailer to determine the type of bolt system that will work best for your door. GARAGE DOORS
Double-wide (two-car) garage doors can present a particular problem during hurricanes. Some garage doors can be strengthened with retrofit kits. Check with your local building supplies dealer.
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PREPARING FOR THE STORM
Prepare your FAMILY
S
ome disasters strike without any warning, and family members may not all be in the same place. How will you get in touch with each other? Where will you meet? What if your neighborhood is being evacuated? It’s important to make a plan now so that you will know what to do, how to find each other, and how to communicate in an emergency. • Pick the same person for each family member to call or email. It might be easier to reach someone who’s out of town. • Text, don’t talk, unless it’s an emergency. It may be easier to send a text. You don’t want to tie up phone lines for emergency workers. • Keep your family’s contact info and meeting spot location in your backpack, wallet, or taped inside your school notebook. Put it in your cell phone if you have one.
Have a family communication plan
FEMA RECOMMENDS PUTTING TOGETHER AN ACTIVITY KIT • Books- Put together a selection of favorites. • Crafts - Assemble crayons, pencils, paper, scissors and glue. • Toys- Pack a couple of board games as well as a favorite toy or two. • Puzzles - They keep a child’s mind occupied.
Family Communication Tips Identify a contact such as a friend or relative who lives out-of-state for household members to notify they are safe. It may be easier to make a long-distance phone call than to call across town, so an out-of-town contact may be in a better position to communicate among separated family members. Be sure every member of your family knows the phone number and has a cell phone, coins or a prepaid phone card to call the emergency contact. If you have a cell phone, program that person(s) as “ICE” (In Case of Emergency)
24
Remember, the first and most important thing to do when facing hazardous weather conditions is to use common sense. Please get together with your family today so that you can prepare a plan for disaster. Here’s how to prepare: •
•
•
•
• in your phone. If you are in an accident, emergency personnel will often check your ICE listings in order to get a hold of someone you know. Make sure to tell your family and friends that you’ve listed them as emergency contacts.
•
Teach family members how to use text messaging. Text messages can often get around network disruptions when a phone call might not be able to get through.
•
•
•
•
Discuss the type of hazards that could affect your family. Know your home’s vulnerability to storm dangers. Decide your evacuation route and destination. Plan to go to family or friends who live in safer areas. Use county evacuation shelters only as a last resort. Outline an alternate plan in case your friends are out of town, your evacuation route is flooded or other unforeseen circumstances arise. Select an out-of-state relative as a family contact, so all your family members have a single point of contact. Plan what you will do with your pets if you need to evacuate (page 29). Review your homeowners and flood insurance policies and keep them with you in a secure, waterproof place. Register individuals with special needs with your county’s Emergency Management Office (page 45). Make a list of prescription medicines that you will need to refill and take with you. Stock non-perishable emergency supplies and food. Also prepare a disaster supply kit (page 33). Take all necessary precautions to protect your vehicles, boats and windows.
PreParING FOr THe sTOrM
MObIle HOMes reQuIre sPecIal PrecauTIONs
DO NOT ride out a hurricane in a mobile home
M
obile homes are particularly vulnerable to hurricane-force winds. Anchor the mobile home with over-the-top, or frame ties. When a storm threatens, do what you can to secure your home, and then take refuge with friends or relatives or at a public shelter. DO NOT ride out a hurricane in a mobile home. Follow mandatory evacuation orders! Before you leave your mobile home take the following precautions: • Pack breakables in boxes and put them on the floor • Remove mirrors • Wrap mirrors and lamps in blankets and place them in the bathtub or shower • Install hurricane shutters or precut plywood on all windows • Shut off utilities and disconnect electricity, sewer and water lines • Shut off propane tanks and leave them outside after anchoring them securely • Store awnings, folding furniture, trash cans and other loose outdoor objects
26
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PREPARING FOR THE STORM
S
outhwest Florida, with its inland waterways and profusion of land slightly above sea-level, presents a particular vulnerability for boats during tropical storms and hurricanes. The geography here simply offers little protection. The keys to protecting your boat from hurricanes or any severe weather are planning, preparation and timely action. The following precautions and checklists are meant as guidelines only. Each boat owner needs a plan unique to the type of boat, the local boating environment and the characteristics of safe havens and/or plans for protections.
General Precautions and Damage Prevention •
Prepare Your boat
•
•
•
Do Not Stay Aboard
28
Make sure your boat is in sound condition. This includes the hull, deck hardware, rigging, ground tackle, machinery and electronics. Make sure that the batteries are charged, bilge pumps are operable, fuel tanks are full, fuel filters are clean, cockpit drains are free and clear, firefighting equipment is in good order and lifesaving equipment is accessible and in good condition. Enhance the watertight integrity of your boat, both above and below the water line. Seal windows, doors and hatches with duct tape. Secure all items on your boat. Remove and/or secure all deck gear, portable gear, radio antennas, outriggers, chairs, deck boxes, cushions, bimini tops and side canvas/curtains, sails, boom, canister rafts and dinghies. Know your hurricane action plan for your vessel. If you plan to move your vessel, and you have sufficient notice, do it at least 48 to 72 hours before the hurricane is estimated to strike the area. Rehearse your planned boat movement, including an actual visit to the alternate dock or hurricane mooring/anchoring location.
•
•
•
•
•
•
Inspect the boat’s deck hardware in light of planned mooring arrangements. Assess the size and structural attachment of the primary chocks, cleats, bitts, bollards and winches. These high-load/high-stress points should have substantial backing plates and be secured with bolts of adequate size. Provide special attention to avoid chafing of mooring lines. Chafing gear that has been proven successful is a double neoprene hose arrangement. Storm moorings, whether at dockside or otherwise, should have doubled lines. The second set of lines should be a size larger than the normal lines including spring lines at a dock. Make a list of important phone numbers. These numbers include your insurance agent, harbour master, marina facility, Coast Guard and National Weather Service. Purchase necessary materials ahead of time such as additional lengths of mooring lines, screw anchors, fenders, fender boards, chafing gear and anchors. Make sure your insurance policy is current. Read the policy thoroughly. There is quite a bit of helpful and advisory information in the policy relative to what the boat owner should do and should not do if there is a storm or hurricane-related loss or damage to the vessel.
Make a List: Make up an inventory list of all boat equipment. Note items to be removed from vessel. Keep a copy of equipment inventory both on board and ashore. Take a recent photo of your boat to keep with all records.
Prepare for your pets •
There needs to be a plan for your pets too •
I
f you know that a hurricane is immediate, bring your pets inside. Many counties prohibit pets from being tethered outside during a storm or hurricane. Always include your pets in your disaster plans: • If you evacuate your home, DO NOT LEAVE YOUR PETS BEHIND! Most pets cannot survive alone. If you must evacuate, take your pets with you. Your pet’s best protection is to be with you. • For public health reasons, most emergency shelters cannot accept pets. Learn which hotels in your area allow pets well in advance of needing them. • Because of a greater threat of disease, it is important that your animals be up to date on their vaccinations. • Carry a current photo of your pet with you for identification. • Make sure ID tags are up-to-date and securely fastened to your pet’s collar. • Pack a “pet survival” kit. Take pet food, bottled water, medications, veterinary records, cat litter and pan, manual can opener, first-aid kit and food dishes. • Call ahead to make sure that hotels will accept your animals. Evacuation shelters will not accept pets of any kind unless designated an “Evacuation Pet Shelter.” Visit www.petswelcome.com for pet
•
•
friendly lodging in Florida and throughout the US or www.hotdealsonhotels.com/ pets. You should pick a location outside of the area where the hurricane is projected to hit. Call boarding kennels or veterinarians with boarding facilities to see the possibility of housing them. Ask if someone will be there with the pets during the hurricane and if their boarding facility is structurally prepared to withstand hurricane force winds. Ask friends or family to provide temporary foster care for your pets. Evacuation pet shelters will be open for residents who live in areas that are under mandatory evacuation orders in the area where they live. This option should be your last resort if you are unable to execute your own personal evacuation plan for your family and pets. It should not be your “evacuation plan.” Acquire an impact resistant pet carrier or cage for each animal to use as protection if you are riding out the storm with your pets at home. Exceptions can be made to house more than one animal per carrier
•
but do not mix different animal species together! Frightened animals may exhibit behavior changes. If you evacuate and must leave your pets behind do not leave pets in carriers as they will not be able to get more food and water when needed. Remember, you may not be able to get back to your house for days or weeks. A carrier should permit a dog or cat to stand up and turn around. Help your pet to adjust to a carrier as part of routine training to reduce the stress of being confined. Place additional ID on the carrier. Birds should have a perch to grasp. Birds, however, should be left in their cages for safety. Survey your home to determine the safest location away from windows. Cover large openings of carrier or cage to protect from flying debris. Provide high areas when there is a risk of flooding.
For a list of Potential Pet-Friendly Shelters see page 45.
Consider Two DIFFERENT pet Kits In one, put everything your pets will need to stay where you are and make it on your own. The other should be a lightweight, smaller version you can take with you if you and your pets have to get away.
29
PreParING FOr THe sTOrM
TIMe TO eVacuaTe know the route to safety
I
f you live in an area that is placed under mandatory evacuation orders, your local emergency management officials have determined that it is unsafe to weather the storm in your home. Whenever possible, pack up and move your family to safety. Ideally, you will have made arrangements with family or friends who reside outside the danger zone. Blue signs are posted to guide drivers to hurricane evacuation routes. When evacuation must occur quickly, the Governor may order all lanes of traffic on both sides of an interstate or Florida’s Turnpike to move in the same direction. During emergency evacuations including wildfires and hurricanes, evacuees can call 511 to get up-to-the minute reports about major evacuation routes, road closures, roadway and bridge conditions, and toll suspensions.
Always obey mandatory evacuation orders • • • • •
• •
• •
Stay alert to storm advisories; WATCH and WARNING — Know the difference. Enact your family disaster plan. Map out your route. Use travel routes specified by local authorities. DO NOT get on the road without a place to go. Fill your tank. Enact your pet plan. Before a storm threatens, contact your veterinarian or local humane society for information on preparing your pets for an emergency. Bring your disaster supply kit, including important documents (see page 33 for details). Secure your home before leaving. Board up windows and glass doors, anchor loose yard objects or bring them inside and lock your doors. Get cash. Following a hurricane, banks and ATMs may be temporarily closed. Notify family and friends of your plans.
When evacuating: • If possible, evacuate to the home of either friends or family in a non-vulnerable area within your county. • Next try a motel or hotel and as a last resort go to a public shelter. Remember, shelters are not designed for comfort. • People who require special assistance in evacuating should register with their local emergency management office.
Plan Your Evacuation Route at www.floridadisaster.org
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PREPARING FOR THE STORM
Stock up on Supplies Now
S
upplies are a critical part of every family’s health and safety and should be gathered well in advance of hurricane season each year. Once a storm is imminent, time to shop will be limited, and if supplies are even available, you will have to search for them. Many residents of Southwest Florida experienced shortages on plywood, batteries, flashlights, water, generators and other such storm necessities during the recent busy hurricane seasons. Each time a storm was predicted to make landfall near Southwest Florida, lines were long, shelves were bare, and stress levels were high. It pays to be prepared! Supplies can be divided into several categories, but the essentials should be gathered and kept easily accessible throughout the hurricane season. Be sure to place the items that you will most likely need for an evacuation in an easy-to carry container.
32
Make sure you have enough for three days
Gather the Essentials • One gallon of water per person per day. • Additional water for food preparation and sanitation. • Bags of ice. Supply will be severely limited once a storm strikes. • Partially fill plastic one-liter or larger soft drink bottles with water and place in the freezer. The bottles will freeze without cracking (stronger plastic than one gallon water bottles). If the power goes out, the frozen water will help keep the freezer cool and when the ice melts, the water will be drinkable.
Food & SupplY Checklist Be prepared with the right supplies. Keep gas tanks full. Supply may be severely limited once a storm strikes. Keep cash on hand. Banks may not be open, ATMs may not be accessible, debit cards and credit cards may not be accepted if power is lost.
Documents
Medical
¨ First aid kits (for home and car) ¨ Insulin ¨ Denture needs ¨ Prescription drugs (minimum
¨ Important telephone numbers ¨ Record of bank account numbers ¨ Family records (birth, marriage,
death certificates)
¨ Record of credit card account
¨ Aspirin or non-aspirin supply ¨ Contact lenses and supplies ¨ Heart and high blood pressure
numbers and companies
¨ Inventory of valuable household goods
¨ Copy of will, insurance policies,
medicine
deeds, stocks and bonds
¨ Copy of passports, social security cards, immunization records, etc.
two-week supply)
¨ Insect repellent ¨ Itch-relief cream Sanitation
Groceries
¨ Baby formula ¨ Bread, crackers ¨ Canned fruits ¨ Canned juice ¨ Canned meats ¨ Canned vegetables ¨ Dry cereal ¨ Instant coffee and tea ¨ Peanut butter ¨ Quick energy snacks ¨ Ready-to-eat soups
¨ Disinfectant ¨ Toilet paper, towelettes, paper towels
¨ Soap and liquid detergent ¨ Personal hygiene items ¨ Household chlorine bleach ¨ Large bucket or trash can with lid for storing water to flush toilets
Tools & Supplies
¨ Traveler’s checks ¨ Battery-operated radio or television ¨ Flashlight and lanterns ¨ Extra batteries and extra bulbs ¨ Lighter or matches for your grill ¨ Antenna for your TV ¨ Extension cords (heavy duty and three-pronged)
¨ Thermos for hot food and coolers/
ice for cold food
¨ Manual can opener/utility knife ¨ Plastic sheeting/tarps ¨ Duct tape ¨ Generator ¨ Gas cans ¨ Old towels for clean up ¨ Paper cups, plates and plastic utensils ¨ Plastic trash bags ¨ Full propane tank ¨ Charcoal and lighter fluid ¨ Camp stove ¨ Sterno ¨ Tree saw for cutting fallen limbs ¨ Hand tools: knife, ax, pliers, screw
drivers, wrench
¨ Hammer and nails ¨ Fire extinguisher ¨ Fix-a-flat ¨ Mops, buckets and cleaning supplies SPECIAL NEEDS If you have family members with special requirements, such as infants and elderly or disabled persons, remember to include items and supplies that may be unique to their special situation.
33
AFTER THE STORM
The Storm is Now Over
R
elief supplies and other aid will be arriving as quickly as possible following a major hurricane. Insurance companies will send special disaster teams, as will the state and federal governments and a host of private organizations. It is very important to understand that it may take several days for them to arrive at the disaster site. Not only does it take time to gather and load the unique supplies that this area may require, but roadways may be blocked by debris and may be unsafe for travel. This is why it is so very important to have enough ice, water and food to sustain your family for at least three days! Assist the Injured Help injured or trapped persons. Do not move seriously injured people unless they are in immediate danger of further injury. Call for help. Give first aid where appropriate.
The recovery process is the most difficult
34
What to Expect Debris is scattered across roads, parking lots and yards. The nice, neat neighborhoods that existed prior to the hurricane will be covered with fallen trees and limbs, gutters, and other wreckage. In many cases, there will be no water, sewer, electrical or telephone service — no air conditioning or refrigeration. Roadways may be blocked for days or weeks. Devastation caused by Hurricanes Charley and Wilma demonstrated that a hurricane can be a traumatic experience — both physically and emotionally. The hardest part of dealing with a hurricane is the recovery process. It is important to understand that the disaster affected everyone. Be calm, patient and understanding. In this section, you will learn post-storm procedures and considerations, information on disaster assistance, generator safety and procedures to recover your boat.
First Things First Return home only after authorities say it is safe to do so!! Keep tuned to WINK News and winknews.com for recovery information. Avoid loose or dangling power lines. Report them immediately to the power company, police or fire department. Drive only if absolutely necessary and avoid flooded roads and washed-out bridges. Allow emergency crews to remove fallen power lines and other hazardous debris. Enter your home with caution. Open doors and windows to ventilate or dry your home. Beware of snakes, insects and animals driven to higher ground by flood water. Check for gas leaks. If you smell gas or hear blowing or hissing noise, open a window and
quickly leave the building. Turn off the gas at the outside main valve and if you can, call the gas company. If you turn off the gas for any reason, it must be turned back on by a professional. Look for electrical system damage. If you see sparks or broken or frayed wires, or if you smell hot insulation, turn off the electricity at the main fuse box or circuit breaker. Check for sewage and water line damage. If you suspect sewage lines are damaged, avoid using the toilets and call a plumber. If water pipes are damaged, contact the water company and avoid water from the tap. Check refrigerated foods for spoilage. Discard any spoiled foods. Keep your refrigerator closed
as much as possible to protect food from additional spoiling. Take pictures of the damage, both to the house and its contents for insurance claims, and save receipts for reimbursement — including temporary lodging and food. Keep a record of all receipts, cancelled checks, bills and other documents received for repair work or temporary living.
35
aFTer THe sTOrM
HealTH & saFeTY cONcerNs Health Care Due to structural damage, the offices and operations of medical facilities and hospitals may very likely be limited. A mobile health unit may be available to provide services to residents with minor medical needs such as cuts, scrapes, bruises and illnesses. Stay tuned to WINK News for information regarding medical treatments. Food Safety Food that has not been refrigerated for two hours or more and has an unusual odor, color or texture and is no longer cool to the touch is considered unsafe. Officials say, “When in doubt, throw it out!” Drinking Water Do not assume that public water in hurricane affected areas is safe to drink. Use bottled water for eating and drinking until there are public announcements about water safety. If bottled water is not available, boil tap water vigorously for one minute. Carbon Monoxide Carbon monoxide is a colorless, tasteless and odorless poison that can be prevented. Do not burn charcoal or gas grills or gas-powered generators inside a house, garage, vehicle or tent. Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include: fatigue, weakness, chest pains, shortness of breath, nausea, vomiting, headaches, confusion, lack of coordination, and impaired vision. Hand Washing/Sanitization Wash hands often with soap and clean water. If unsure about the water source, use an alcoholbased hand sanitizer to decrease the risk of illness, infection and disease causing bacteria.
36
When in doubt, throw it out
Mold Molds are fungi that can be toxic and cause severe reactions for many people. You should replace baseboards and wallboards that have been damaged by water because mold and mildew will form inside walls. A phenol compound such as Pine-Sol or Lysol is best for pressed wood. It is also necessary to replace insulation, carpet and furniture that have been damaged by water. Mosquitos Heavy rains and flooding lead to an increase in the mosquito population. Public health authorities recommend following the “5 D’s of prevention.” Dusk & Dawn – avoid the outdoors from sunset to sunrise. Dress – wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants and socks. DEET – use repellents containing DEET, usually 30% solutions. Do NOT use DEET on children under 2 months old. Drainage – check your home and neighborhood, and dump standing water where mosquitoes can lay their eggs.
KNOW THe sIGNs OF HeaT eXHausTION This is a mild form of heatrelated illness that can develop after several days of exposure to high temperatures and inadequate or unbalanced replacement of fluids. Most prone to heat exhaustion are elderly people and people with high blood pressure. Warning signs are heavy sweating, paleness, muscle cramps, tiredness, weakness, dizziness, headache, nausea, vomiting and fainting. If left untreated, heat exhaustion can become heat stroke. Cool the victim off: Drink cool, nonalcoholic beverages (water, sports drinks, juice). Get rest. Take a cool shower or bath and move to an air-conditioned space.
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AFTER THE STORM
What the Storm leaves Behind Do NOT block your road with garbage
GENERATOR HAZARDS
From 1999 to 2010, nearly 600 generator-related carbon monoxide deaths have been reported. • Be
sure
owner’s follow
to
read
manual the
the
indoors, outside under a window,
and
on a covered patio, or in any space
manufacturer’s
recommendations!
Storm Debris It will be necessary to separate your curb side trash. Cleanup debris will be accepted by priority. As soon as roads are cleared, raw garbage such as animal, fruit or vegetable waste will be collected. The second priority will be normal household garbage including food waste. The third priority is yard waste. Place trees, branches and the like in piles that can be easily managed by collection personnel. And finally, the last priority will be construction debris such as lumber, roofing, concrete and similar materials. Your county may accept food waste at the Waste Management facility. Contact the facility for drop-off hours. DO NOT BLOCK YOUR ROAD WITH GARBAGE. Debris Removal Information Charlotte: 941-575-3600 Collier: 239-403-2380 DeSoto: 863-993-4831 Glades: 863-946-6020 Hendry: 863-612-4700 Lee: 239-533-8000
38
it is properly grounded. • Plug devices directly into the generator. NEVER “back your
adequate
ventilation.
NEVER OPERATE INDOORS!
• Do NOT use a generator until
feed”
without
house
circuits
• Keep flammable items away. The generator exhaust system is very hot. • NEVER
refuel
your
generator
inside your home or while it is
or connect your generator
hot. A serious fire could result.
to your house wiring. Do
• Prevent electric shock. Do NOT
NOT overload the generator capacity. • BE
AWARE
OF
MONOXIDE Never
use
use in wet areas. • Check all electrical cords to be
a
CARBON
sure the insulation is in good
POISONING.
condition and check the oil and
generator
Pool Care Remove as much debris by hand as possible and lower the water level to normal. Add a chlorinator, as in the form of the 10 percent hypochlorite granules commonly known as shock. Super chlorinate again and clean the filter frequently until the pool is back to normal. Have the gas company reconnect the heater line. If your pool needs structural repairs, choose a contractor carefully.
fuel level before starting motor.
Looting/Curfew As soon as the hurricane ends, looting can begin. With walls and more blown away – and since many homes belong to snowbirds summering up north – homes become easy targets. The fear of looting is widespread within the community and many residents stay in their damaged homes to protect their valuables. However, it is important to note that incidences of crime are actually statistically lower after a disaster. A curfew may be enacted for several nights to combat theft and vandalism.
39
aFTer THe sTOrM
cleaNING uP aFTer THe sTOrM abOuT elecTrONIcs The Priorities • Pump or bail water out of the house as soon as possible. • Open the windows to let the house air out and give the walls and floors a chance to dry. • Shovel mud out before it can dry, then scrub floors and walls with a brush and mild soap and water. • Make sure all appliances are unplugged as a general safety precaution.
• Never
open
an
electronic
appliance to dry it inside. A tube
television
is
especially
dangerous. It has components that will retain very high electric voltages for quite awhile. • Unplug the appliance and let it dry thoroughly. When you notice the moisture on the outside has dried, do not assume the inside has dried. Let the item continue
Household Tips Stoves & Ovens • Clean the outside with a grease cutter, then with detergent and water. • Clean the inside with conventional oven cleaner. Refrigerators & Freezers • To remove odors, wash the inside and the plastic door gasket with detergent and water. • Rinse with a cloth and clear water. Wipe dry. Washers & Dryers • Pour a disinfectant into the empty washer. Run a 15-minute cycle using the hot water setting. • Unplug the dryer and wipe the drum and dryer door with a cloth dipped in disinfectant solution. • Rinse with a cloth dipped in clear water. • Leave the dryer door open until all parts are dry, preferably overnight. • Leave the dishwasher door open until all parts are dry. Books & Papers • Place books on end with leaves separated. When they are partially dry, pile and press books. Alternate drying and pressing until thoroughly dry.
40
to dry for a few more days. • Placing the equipment in the sun will help, but monitor the item
closely.
LCDs
can
be
damaged by over exposure to bright sunlight. • After you are certain the item is completely dry inside and out, plug it in. If it will not work right away, give it another day to dry. • If the power indicator lights come on, leave the equipment on for about 10 minutes, then
• If books and papers are very damp, sprinkle some cornstarch between the pages to absorb moisture. Leave on for several hours, then brush off. • When papers and books are almost dry, try using an electric iron set on low heat to flatten the pages. • Separate the pages to prevent musty odors. • When books are completely dry, close them and clamp them closed to help them retain their shape. • Photocopy important papers because they may quickly disintegrate, even if they have dried out.
turn it off for about 30 minutes. repeat the process, leaving the appliance on for an extra five minutes each try. • If an appliance power indicator does not come on, and you’re sure the outlet works, unplug it and take it to a repair shop. • If
you
crackling
see
smoke
sounds,
or
hear
unplug
it
immediately and take it to a repair shop.
We are ready, willing and able! LCEC employees prepare year-round to be ready when a storm threatens Southwest Florida. It’s our job to provide reliable power to our customers and we work around the clock to make sure the lights are on.
When a storm threatens • Advanced weather tracking • Equipment, material and supply inventory
Year-round • System maintenance • Vegetation management • Facilities inspections • Restoration plan training • Process improvement • Vendor relations
• Support team and out-of-state contractors mobilized • Crew staging in areas most likely to be affected
Storm Restoration • Safety, speed, efficiency • Damage assessment • Restore critical infrastructure • Focus on areas with largest number of customers • Non-stop until power restored
Cooperation of residents and area businesses is also critical to the success of the electrical restoration process. • Know what to do to keep your family and employees safe. Prepare for the unexpected. • Keep phone lines clear for emergency calls or to report downed power lines. • Stay away from downed power lines. • If electrical equipment is near water, turn off the power at the main breaker.
To report power outages visit www.lcec.net or call 1-800-599-2356
WINK-TV’S 60TH ANNIVERSARY
S
ince the station signed on air in 1954, WINK-TV has been the region’s news leader, a position it continues to hold 60 years later. What began as a 15 minute newscast for a population of 55,000 in 1954, has grown to 11 hours daily for over one million people today. That strong local effort, combined with the global resources of CBS News, has allowed WINK-TV to consistently provide its viewers with news from around the corner to around the world. On October 20, 2007, WINK-TV became the 52nd television station in the United States and the 2nd in the state of Florida to launch local high hefinition news.
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On the weather front, WINK-TV has delivered award-winning coverage of hurricane Donna, hurricane Andrew and hurricane Charley. WINK-TV has been on the scene when Lee County public schools superintendent James Adams was murdered, when the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency was bombed and when the Lords Of Chaos gang was brought to justice. As the region grew, WINK-TV has covered its growing pains, including the construction and opening of Southwest Florida International Airport, the building and completion of Interstate 75 and the bridges that now link Fort Myers to Cape Coral. WINK-TV examined how growth affects the environment, traffic, health systems and other quality of life issues. WINK-TV also brought home the biggest national and international triumphs and tragedies: man’s first steps on the moon, the destruction of the Challenger and Columbia space shuttles; the assassinations of JFK, RFK and Martin Luther King and the enactment of the Civil Rights Act; the Cold War, the Vietnam War, the Gulf War, the horror of 9-11. If it matters to Southwest Floridians, WINK-TV is there to cover it.
Then and Now
Count on WINK News to bring it to you first
In the short space of a single generation, Southwest Florida has evolved from a sparsely settled frontier to one of the fastest growing regions in the country. The number of residents has swelled from 51,670 in 1950 to more than 1,250,826 by 2014. As the population has grown, so has the viewership of WINK-TV. In 1977 its market rank was 136 and today it is ranked 62 in comparison to all the 210 television markets in the nation. Population and viewers are not the only things that have increased in the past six decades. Below is some cost of living trivia for you to consider:
.92
Loaf of Bread
.17
$1.52
Dozen Eggs
.26
$1.99
$4.87
Coffee
.78 $5.03
Postage Stamp
.03
.49
Min. Wage/Hr.
.75
$7.79
Gallon of Gas
.22
$3.68
Movie Ticket New Car New Home Avg. Income Dow Average
1954 2014
Gallon of Milk
.70
$8.98
$1,700
$31,252
$10,250 $177,000 $3,960
$40,750
403
16,364
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shelters
EVACUATE if at all Possible
I
f an evacuation order has been issued, officials stress that you make every effort to leave the area. If you must go to a shelter, here are some important things for you to consider: •
•
•
•
•
Shelters are not hotels! They will not be able to provide you with any conveniences or luxuries. Bring your family’s disaster supply kit to ensure proper provisions. Be considerate! Shelters have a community environment that consists of a large number of people. It is important to be considerate and cooperative and follow the instructions of the refuge management team. Food and water may be scarce at first. You may experience the shortage or rationing of food, especially for the first few hours. The condition will be temporary. No weapons or liquor allowed! Weapons and liquor are not permitted in shelters under any circumstances, and could lead to your arrest. Be patient! Try to be patient and cheerful about the situation, and your attitude will help the overall morale of the entire group. Listen only to official information and refuse to pass on another person’s speculations.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT PUBLIC SHELTERS Local Emergency Management officials will decide which shelters to open — and when to open them. When hurricanes threaten, stay tuned to WINK News for up-to-the-minute disaster information. Persons with special needs MUST be pre-registered. Persons with special medical needs MUST pre-register with their county’s Emergency Management Office! Special Care Centers are opened on an as-needed basis. Please verify that the centers are open before evacuating!
area shelters & Refuges of last resort Shelters open when determined by Emergency Management officials who will make an announcement at the time of a storm.
CHARLOTTE COUNTY Emergency Operations Center 941-833-4000 charlottecountyfl.com/emergency
Englewood Lemon Bay High School Vineland Elementary School
Port Charlotte Charlotte Harbor School Cultural Center of Charlotte County Kingsway Elementary School
Pets are NOT allowed in most public storm shelters The only exceptions are dogs certified to assist the hearing- or visionimpaired. Residents who intend to go to a shelter must make other arrangements to ensure their pet’s safety and care in the event of an evacuation.
Liberty Elementary School Meadow Park Elementary School Murdock Middle School Pilgrim United Church of Christ Port Charlotte High School Port Charlotte Methodist Church Port Charlotte Middle School
Punta Gorda Friendship United Methodist Church Sallie Jones Elementary School South County Regional Park Ventura Lakes Clubhouse Building
Rotonda L.A. Ainger Middle School PLEASE NOTE: Do not depend on a particular
Shelters are a LAST RESORT
Refuge Site being open. Refuge Sites may or may not be opened depending on the size of the storm and the predicted landfall area. Charlotte County has no Refuge Sites if we have a Category 3 or higher storm affecting the area.
44
COLLIER COUNTY
GLADES COUNTY
LEE COUNTY
Emergency Operations Center
Emergency Operations Center
Emergency Operations Center
239-252-3600 | colliergov.net/em
863-946-6020 | myglades.com/BOCC/EM
239-533-0622 leeeoc.com
Immokalee
Buckhead Ridge
Alva/East Fort Myers
Highlands Elementary School
Buckhead Ridge Community Center
Alva Elem/Middle School
Immokalee High School
Buckhead Ridge VFW
Riverdale High School
Immokalee Middle School
Lakeport
Bonita Springs
Pinecrest Elementary School
Lakeport Community Center
Bonita Springs YMCA
Village Oaks Elementary School
Maples Grove Baptist Church
Cape Coral
Naples
Moore Haven
Diplomat Elementary School
Barron Collier High School
American Legion Hall
Diplomat Middle School
Big Cypress Elementary
Doyle Conner Ag Center
Island Coast High School
Corkscrew Elem/Middle School
Moore Haven Elementary School
Mariner Middle School
Cypress Palm Middle School
Moore Haven High School
Estero
Golden Gate Intermediate School
Muse
Estero Recreation Center
Golden Gate Middle School
West Glades Elementary - Special Needs
Estero High School
Golden Gate High School
Ortona
Germain Arena
Golden Terrace Intermediate School
Ortona Community Center
Fort Myers
Gulf Coast High School
Palmdale
Colonial Elementary School
Laurel Oak Elementary School
Palmdale Community Center
James Stephens International Academy
Lely High School Naples High School North Naples Middle School
HENDRY COUNTY Emergency Operations Center
Oakridge Middle School Palmetto Ridge High School - Special Needs
863-674-5400 hendryfla.net/emergency_management.php
Parkside Elementary School
Royal Palm Exceptional Center South Fort Myers High School - Pet Friendly
Lehigh Acres E. Lee County High School Harns Marsh Elementary School Harns Marsh Middle School
Pelican Marsh Elementary
Clewiston
Lehigh Senior High School
Sable Palm Elementary School
Eastside Elementary School
Mirror Lakes Elementary School
Vineyards Elementary School
Central Elementary School
Varsity Lakes Middle School
Clewiston High School
Veterans Park Recreation Center
Clewiston Middle School
North Fort Myers
Westside Elementary School
J. C. Colin English Elementary School
LaBelle
Littleton Elementary School
Country Oaks Elementary School
N. Fort Myers Academy of the Arts
Arcadia
LaBelle Elementary School
North Fort Myers Recreation Center
Desoto Middle School
LaBelle High School
San Carlos
South FL Community College - Special Needs
LaBelle Middle School
Alico Arena
DESOTO COUNTY Emergency Operations Center 863-993-4831 | desotobocc.com
Three Oaks Elementary School Three Oaks Middle School
Tice Oak Hammock Middle School
45
IMPOrTaNT NuMbers & WebsITes aFTer a dIsasTer
eMerGeNcY OPeraTIONs ceNTers • Lee: 239-533-0622
• floridadisaster.org: This is the state’s
Where you can donate food, water and
• Collier: 239-252-3600
Emergency Operations Center’s
money: Harry Chapin Food Bank, 3760
• Charlotte: 941-833-4000
website for up-to-date statewide
Fowler St., Fort Myers. Call 239-334-7007
• DeSoto: 863-993-4831
information, news alerts and contact
or harrychapinfoodbank.org
• glades: 863-946-6020
information about storms, evacuations,
• Hendry: 863-674-5400
storm surge and shelter information. • petswelcome.com or hotdealsonhotels.
aGeNcY HelP • fema.gov: This is the Federal
HOTlINes
com/pets for pet friendly lodging in
Emergency Management Agency
• FEMA Disaster Assistance/
Florida and throughout the US.
website. It offers detailed instructions to prepare for natural disasters,
registration: 800-621-3362 TTY: 800-462- 7585 • U.S. Small Business Administration: 800-659-2955 TTY: 800-877-8339 • FEMA Fraud Hotline: 866-720-5721 • report false claims: 800-323-8603 • State of Florida Emergency Info 24-hour hotline: 800-342-3557 • Safe &Wellness Helpline to see if
cONTracTOr INFOrMaTION • Division of Workers’ Compensation: 800-742-2214 • Florida Association of Electrical Contractors: 407-260-1511 • FloridaWall and Ceiling Contractors Association: 407-260-1313 • Associated Builders and Contractors
people are Ok or in a shelter:
of Florida (ABC):
800-733-2767
813-879-8064
• Florida Dept. of Financial Services Hurricane Help line: 800-227-8676 • red Cross Food, Shelter and Financial Assistance: 866-438-4636 • DCF Information: 866-762-2237
• Charlotte: 941-629-4345
800-435-7352 • Domestic Animal Services: 239-533-7387
consumer advocate that promotes
flwestcoastredcross.org • Collier, Lee, Hendry, glades: gulfcoast redcross.org
TO VOluNTeer aNd dONaTe • State Volunteers and Donations Hotline: 800-354-3571 • Salvation Army Donation Hotline: 800-725-2769
POWer cOMPaNIes
and Atmospheric Administration
• Florida Power & Light: 800-468-8243
experts at the National Hurricane
• LCEC: 800-599-2356
Center are leading authorities
• glades Electric Co-Op: 800-226-4024
tropical storms.
46
and property loss mitigation. • fmo.org: The Federation of
• Charlotte, Sarasota and Manatee
• American red Cross: 800-435-7669
on Atlantic Basin hurricanes and
and insurance concerns.
Manufactured Home Owners is a
ONlINe resOurces • nhc.noaa.gov: The National Oceanic
that is mobilized to assist with banking
• DeSoto: 863-494-2348
• Verify contractor licenses: • Agricultural and Consumer Services:
Financial Services is an organization
dedicated to promoting disaster safety
• Collier: 239-596-6868
regional website:
850-487-1395
storm, the Florida Department of
• Lee, Hendry and glades: 278-3401
• Attorney general’s Price gouging
866-532-1440
response and recovery operations. • myfloridacfo.com: In the event of a
for Safe Homes, an organization
counties and Tampa have a combined
• report unlicensed activity:
Cross keeps residents informed about
aMerIcaN red crOss OFFIces
• Elder Helpline: 800-963-5337 Hotline: 866-966-7226
the National Flood Insurance Program. • redcross.org: The American red
• flash.org: This is the Federal Alliance
• Disaster Unemployment Services: 866-778-7356
including action plans, safe rooms and
hurricane safety.
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HurrIcaNe Q&a
ASK WINK NEWS JIM Farrell aNsWers sOMe OF THe MOsT cOMMON QuesTIONs Q: Will sW Florida be hit by a hurricane this year? A:
No one knows until the hurricane
forms and is headed our way.
Even
then, as with Charley, we did not predict landfall until about 6 hours before it happened. Here’s the math: There have been 9 known hurricanes that have directly hit SW Florida since 1873. That’s 9 in 141 years or about 1
Q: I live near the Gulf of Mexico at a low elevation. When should I evacuate?
every 15 years on average. That means, based on history, there is about a 7%
A: You should evacuate when told by
chance that SW Florida will be hit by a
our local authorities. This will usually
hurricane in any given year.
be after SW Florida is “in the forecast cone” and a watch or warning has been issued by the National Hurricane
Q: What is the eyewall of a hurricane?
Center.
In most cases an evacuation
order will be issued to move you away from a potential storm surge.
A:
The eyewall is the doughnut
shaped ring of rain and wind that surround the calm eye of the hurricane. The highest sustained wind is usually in
Q: I live east of I-75. am I safe from the effects of a hurricane?
the eyewall. A:
Not necessarily. While an inland
location should minimize the effect of
Q: What is the deadliest hurricane on record in the united states?
storm surge, you may have significant wind damage. damage
will
The amount of wind depend
on
the
size,
strength and speed of forward motion A:
The galveston, Texas hurricane
of 1900 killed 6,000-8,000 or more. It made landfall on September 8, 1900. Storm surge caused almost all of the deaths.
48
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