INDEX
I
s it better to be lucky than good? I’m not sure but I do know that we were lucky again last year. Last hurricane season was an active
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Jim Farrell Tom Doerr
CONTRIBUTORS
Scott Zedeker Janine Albert Mary Mays Matt Devitt Zach Maloch Congressman Francis Rooney Sheriff Mike Scott Allen Weiss Brian Wierima
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one with 15 tropical storms, 7 hurricanes and 4 major hurricanes. Despite above average activity,
A MESSAGE FROM
JIM FARRELL
SW Florida was spared once again. Of the 4 major hurricanes last year, none of them made landfall in Florida or in the United States. The last major hurricane to do so remains Wilma in 2005 when it crossed the SW Florida coastline on October 24 of that year. Let’s not forget that hurricane Matthew was almost a land falling major hurricane last year when it passed 12 miles to the east of Melbourne Florida on October 6. Despite staying offshore, Matthew created a 7 foot storm surge at Fernandina Beach, hurricane force wind of 77 mph at Cape Canaveral and 10 inches of rain from St Augustine to Jacksonville. Meanwhile in SW Florida, Matthew only dropped .23 inches of rain in Ft. Myers and wind gusts to near 40 mph in eastern Hendry and Highlands counties. Nevertheless, Matthew is in the record books as the first category 5 hurricane since 2007 and the strongest hurricane of 2016 with 160 mph wind. Here’s a hypothetical
DESIGN & Layout Nicole Stewart Scott Thomas
situation: what if the atmospheric steering currents were a little different in October of 2016? What if Matthew was pushed 150 miles farther west and entered the Gulf of Mexico? Our weather
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would have been significantly more dangerous as it always will be with a land falling major hurricane, like Donna, Charley and Wilma. A land falling hurricane will always be my biggest fear. While hurricanes that parallel the east coast like Matthew or cross the state like Andrew are problematic, it’s the hurricane that moves from the Gulf towards SW Florida that causes the highest storm surge and the most destruction. Will we have a land falling hurricane this year? No one knows. The best we can say is that since there should be neither a strong El Nino (below average activity), or a strong La Nina (above average activity), 2017 should feature near normal activity. Regardless of any predictions of what this year will bring I want you and your family to get ready. Look through this guide and keep it handy in case a tropical depression, tropical storm or hurricane arrives this year. Don’t be lulled into a sense of complacency because SW Florida has been lucky since 2005. Let’s be good, educated and prepared in 2017!
Jim Farrell
WINK News - Chief Meteorologist
2
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CONTENTS
6
2017 storm season Storm names and information about the 2017 season
8
Hurricane 101 Terms, facts and charts about hurricanes
12
county maps Maps of evacuation and storm surge zones by county
20
Preparing for the Storm Important things to know when planning and preparing
36
After the Storm
Features Always be prepared Congressman Francis Rooney urges SWFL to be prepared
14 healthy hurricane
Safety tips for storm cleanup
44
evacuation & Shelters
WINK News Meteorologist Matt Devitt’s live experience during Matthew
important Phone Numbers & Resources Important phone numbers and website information
4
Know the four major areas of hurricane stress
26
16
Shelter locations and information
46
preparation
hurricane matthew
be pet prepared Gulf Coast Humane Society gives pet preparation tips
know when to evacuate Lee County Sheriff Mike Scott explains the different evacuation orders
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30
WINK News Weather App Get your severe weather information on the go
48
Air Conditioning & Appliances Services, Sales, & Agreements
Free Estimates on AC Replacements Complete Care & Maintenance Agreements Duct Cleaning Appliance Repairs (all brands) 24 hour Emergency Service
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n U l l a C t s Ju
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2017 HURRICANE SEASON
2017 WINK News
Hurricane Guide
S
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.
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2017 HURRICANE SEASON
2017 STORM NAMES Arlene Bret Cindy Don Emily Franklin Gert Harvey Irma Josh Katia Lee Maria Nate Ophelia Philippe Rina Sean Tammy Vince Whitney
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HURRICANE 101
how bad
T
could it be?
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 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. Lives 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!
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HURRICANE 101
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+
SUMMARY
PEOPLE, LIVESTOCK & PETS
MOBILE HOMES
FRAME HOMES APARTMENTS, SHOPPING CENTERS & BUILDINGS TREES
POWER & WATER
EXAMPLE
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
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
Hurricane Dolly (2008)
Hurricane Frances (2004)
Hurricane Ivan (2004)
Hurricane Charley (2004)
Hurricane Andrew (1992)
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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. Tornadoes A damaging by-product of hurricanes can be tornadoes. Tornadoes are most likely to occur in the right front quadrant of a hurricane, but they are not limited to that area. They often spring out of feeder bands that come ashore well ahead of a hurricane. Meteorologists have no definite way to predict whether one hurricane will produce more tornadoes than the next. Just because a hurricane has moved out of the area, it doesn’t mean you are safe from tornadoes. They can develop for several days because of the remnants of the low pressure system associated with it. If a tornado warning is issued, move to a small, interior room away from windows, or to an interior hallway on a lower floor. If that’s not possible, you can protect yourself by getting under heavy furniture or use a mattress to shield your body. Stay away from windows.
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Hazards Tropical 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. 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.
HURRICANE 101
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. 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, lowpressure 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.
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COUNTY MAPS
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COUNTY MAPS
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PREPARING FOR THE STORM
aLWAYS
Be Prepared!
By Congressman Francis Rooney
T
hirteen years ago this August, a category one hurricane churned in the Gulf of Mexico, threatening to make landfall somewhere north of Tampa Bay. Here in Southwest Florida, some residents prepared for wind and rain, but most simply went about their daily routines safe in the knowledge that they would not be directly affected. Then, something changed drastically; winds quickly rose to 145 mph, and the now Category Four Hurricane made an abrupt turn toward the east. This turn would prove tragic for many residents and business owners in Lee and Charlotte Counties. Floridians living in this area were caught off guard, and had very little time to prepare or evacuate. Many were still on the roads as the edge of the storm made landfall. Despite our local meteorologists warning that storms can and do change paths, it had been many years since a storm took direct aim on Southwest Florida and many of us had become complacent. As with most aspects of our lives, preparedness makes all the difference. This hurricane season, I urge all my friends and neighbors in Southwest Florida to “be prepared�. We are fortunate to have a great resource in the WINK News hurricane guide. While this publication provides critical information, such as; shelter locations, hurricane checklist items, evacuation routes, and all the pertinent information necessary to keep us as safe as possible in the event of a storm, this information is only helpful if you use it. Do not wait until a storm is approaching to; stock up on bottled water and non-perishable food items, know the location of your nearest shelter (and whether it is pet friendly), purchase fresh batteries for flashlights and electronics, know how to properly operate a generator, make a first aid kit, and write a list of emergency numbers that might be needed. 14
If a storm does affect our community, there are several state hotlines that should be a part of your emergency numbers list. These hotlines include; the Department of Financial Services storm hotline (800-227-8676), State of Florida emergency information (800-342-3557) and the American Red Cross (866-438-4636).
While we hope for a mild hurricane season that leaves our piece of paradise here in Southwest Florida untouched, it is incumbent on each of us to prepare for all possibilities. Have a plan, stock up on hurricane supplies, and stay tuned to your local news networks if a storm approaches to get all the latest updates.
HURRICANE MATTHEW
“Reporting Live from Hurricane Matthew….” By Meteorologist Matt Devitt
2016 was busier than an average Atlantic Hurricane Season. Of the fifteen named storms. Hurricane Matthew had the biggest impact from the Caribbean to the Eastern Seaboard, especially on Florida. Matthew was the strongest, deadliest, and most expensive hurricane of the 2016 season. Matthew was also the first category five hurricane since Hurricane Felix in 2007 and hit much closer to home for Floridians.
After Matthew slammed Hispañola, Cuba, and the Bahamas it turned toward Florida. The WINK News Weather Team kicked into high gear to keep our views ahead of the storm and track Matthew as it grew in size and intensity. When landfall on the Atlantic Coast looked possible, my WINK News crew and I loaded up and headed east to track the storm and report from the front lines of this major, powerful hurricane. When major storms hit, viewers often see reporters and meteorologists standing in high winds and pounding rain. They’re often struggling just to stay upright. What you don’t see at home is what goes into getting that report on the air. Riding out hurricanes and severe weather can be extremely dangerous. It’s not something anyone should ever do lightly. If you are ordered to evacuate an area, you should. That is what we wanted to show by reporting live from the middle of the hurricane’s predicted path. Our decision to go live from the predicted storm path was not made lightly. It was made with careful preparation and planning, strategy and research. I was responsible not only for my life and safety but also for my photographer Caleb Ramsey’s as well.
16
Meteorologist Matt Devitt Reporting Live during Hurricane Matthew.
HURRICANE MATTHEW
Hurricanes do not watch TV news. They do not pay attention to the tracking models that help us predict storm paths and they do not file a flight plan in advance. The WINK News Weather Team does have highly advanced forecasting tools and we have invested heavily in technology to show our viewers severe weather and where it’s heading. In consultation with Chief Meteorologist Jim Farrell and WINK News executives back in Naples, I went through all worst-case scenarios involving storm surge, downed trees and power lines, flying debris, and structural damage before deciding on Melbourne as the best location for our live reports. We arrived on the Atlantic Coast in time to get in about four hour of restless sleep before leaving our hotel and heading into Melbourne at 2 a.m.. I will never forget the drive to the live shot location. It was intense and it was eerie. With wind whipping the car around, low visibility, and no one on the roads, my hometown was a ghost town. We were bombarded by rain bands on the northwest side of Matthew, as wind gusts reached 60 mph. We eventually got to our spot and set up as the wind continued to increase. The plan was to do live on-scene reports every 30 minutes throughout the morning. During each segment, I showed the strong wind and heavy rain, made observations, and reported on the damage we could see. As I mentioned, hurricanes don’t file a flight plan and Hurricane Matthew took a turn away from the Florida coast. As Matthew rode up Florida’s Atlantic coast, it shifted farther east than originally expected, taking the strongest winds of the inner eye wall with it, keeping the most intense winds offshore. That was, thankfully, the best-case scenario. Even with the shift away from the coastline, Matthew still produced category-one-force winds in Melbourne. 75-80 mph winds made the punishing rain feel like needles and tested my balance while I struggled to stay upright while reporting live. 17
Photographer, Caleb Ramsey deserves all the credit for getting us on the air. Caleb was amazing! He held a heavy camera steady in the unrelenting, driving wind and rain, keeping it dry, while also giving me time cues and updates from the studio crew back in Fort Myers. Even though Matthew didn’t directly hit my live shot location, wind gusts did reach as high as 110 mph in parts of Florida’s east coast, especially a few miles north of us near Cape Canaveral. We experienced the worst conditions between 2 and 6 a.m. when the eye was offshore and parallel to our location in Melbourne. I witnessed power flashes, downed trees and widespread limbs strewn across roads, and a three foot storm surge along the Indian River. Sunrise revealed the scope of the damage. The most significant damage came from trees falling on homes. Downed power lines and uprooted trees thrown across several roads made for dangerous driving. Thankfully, local residents followed orders to evacuate and the streets were empty except for news crews and law enforcement. It took Florida weeks to recover after Hurricane Matthew, but considering the eye of the hurricane remained offshore, the Sunshine State dodged a bullet. It could have been a lot worse. I will never forget the experience. I endured mother nature’s fury up-close. On a personal level, I’ve told friends that the biggest surprise during storm coverage was how cold it felt! Being soaked for hours, combined with the strong wind, left me shivering in spite of dressing in multiple layers. The goal of our WINK News live storm coverage was to show the critical importance of following evacuation orders. Pictures speak volumes. Matthew showed Floridians why it is always better to be safe than sorry when severe weather strikes. Count on WINK News and the WINK News Weather Team to keep you ahead of severe weather and to help keep your family safe. 18
PREPARING FOR THE STORM
Preparing Your HOME Do-It-Yourself Home Preparations
•
Windows, Doors, Roof – Protect all windows, doors, garage door and roof.
•
Electricity – Unplug appliances – especially television sets – and turn off electricity (except refrigerator) 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 to the ground.
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 home against a hurricane. Know Your Home’s Vulnerabilities WINDOWS
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.
20
ROOF
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. 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.
Mobile Homes Require Special Precautions Mobile 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 • 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
PREPARING FOR THE STORM
Preparing 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.
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 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) in your phone. If you are in an accident, emergency personnel will often check your ICE listings in order to get 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.
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
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: • 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 30). • 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 34). • Take all necessary precautions to protect your vehicles, boats and windows.
PREPARE YOUR VALUABLES • • • • •
•
Keep all photos and videos in one location Scan all important documents and photos Back up all computers/files to a storage outside your home Remove all framed photos from your walls Place all valuables in waterproof container keep with your evacuation kit Take a photo/video inventory of the inside of your home
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PREPARING FOR THE STORM
KNOW WHEN TO
EVACUATE
By Lee County Sheriff Mike Scott
L
ee County is fortunate to have avoided the wrath of tropical storms for over a decade. We’ve had no major threats since Hurricane Wilma in 2005 and have incurred no major damages since Hurricane Charley in 2004, so it’s easy to forget just how dangerous these storms can be. Don’t be lulled into a sense of false security: Now is the time to prepare. The Lee County Sheriff ’s Office takes hurricanes seriously, and we need you to do the same. Know the difference Hurricane Watch: Hurricane conditions are a threat within 48 hours. At this point, residents should review their hurricane plans, stay informed and be prepared to act if a warning is issued. Hurricane Warning: This warning is issued when hurricane conditions are expected within 36 hours. Residents need to complete their storm preparations and leave the affected area immediately if the Lee Board of County Commissioners issues a mandatory evacuation order. You may be surprised to know that it can take up to 41 hours for all residents to evacuate the danger zone and/or arrive at a safe shelter within the county once an evacuation order is issued, according to Lee County Emergency Management estimates. The time required to evacuate out of Southwest Florida increases to as much as 89 hours because of our roadways. The weather may look nice when the evacuation order is issued, but trust me, it won’t stay that way for long. LCSO works closely with Lee County Public Safety at the Emergency Operations Center along with each of the county’s municipal police departments, state agencies and nonprofits 22
such as the American Red Cross. This hub will monitor the mobilization process in the field and at shelters, and assign additional personnel where needed. Lee County Emergency Management has coordinated this county-wide planning initiative since its inception in 1975 to ensure a uniform response to disasters. When a storm approaches, the Lee County Sheriff ’s Office will activate its emergency Incident Command System. It mobilizes all essential employees into “A” or “B” shifts that work mandatory 12 hours on duty and 12 hours off duty for the duration of the hurricane/ tropical storm. Specialized units, such as Marine, Aviation and Fleet, take action to protect their assets and stock up on necessary reserves for post-storm recovery. When the storm approaches, Sheriff ’s Office District commanders will order deputies to withdraw from their zones and take shelter when flood waters render roads impassable and/or winds rise to a steady 45 miles per hour. Anyone refusing an evacuate order will be asked to complete a “next of kin” form that will be used if necessary in the post-storm recovery phase. Deputies will not transport any civilians because their patrol vehicles must be kept available for emergencies. Instead, those requests are sent to Emergency Operations Center. Any vehicles blocking a road will immediately be pushed off the road. It is critical that residents take evacuation orders seriously. If you need help developing or enhancing your evacuation plan, consult the Family Emergency Plan developed by Lee County Emergency Management. The plan can be downloaded from Lee County Public Safety’s website. Go to www.lee-county.com. The guide is comprehensive; I recommend everyone review and complete it for the peace of mind it will bring. Lee County was spared greater damage from Charley because its maximum winds and storm surge extended out only about 6-7 miles from the center when it came ashore just north of
Captiva Island, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. This helped limit storm surge to no more than 7 feet. Still, the total U.S. damage is estimated to be near $15 billion, which makes Charley the second costliest hurricane in U.S. history. Next time we face an approaching hurricane, we may not be so lucky. Lee County needs your help to mitigate the effects and loss of life in any future storm. To learn more about how the Lee County Sheriff Office prepares for hurricane season, what we do when a storm is forecasted and when a storm is approaching call the Lee County Sheriff ’s Office Community Relations section at 239-258-3280 and one of our Specialists will come out and talk to your group.
2016 2016
• • • • • •
Insurance approved Florida Building Code approved HVHZ approved (#12573) Blocks 99% of wind and rain Category 5 wind load tested Protection from flying debris
• • • • • •
Rapid deployment 100% UV resistant Translucent; lets light in Lightweight Compact for easy storage 10-year limited warranty
PREPARING FOR THE STORM
HEALTHY HURRICANE PREPARATION By NCH Healthcare System CEO & President Allen Weiss, MD, MBA, FACP, FACR
S
taying healthy, no matter what is happening in our environment, can be challenging particularly if we are stressed by nature in the form of a hurricane.
Fortunately, Southwest Florida has been spared for over a decade from major destructive storms, but no one can completely predict our upcoming season’s events. What we can and should do is be prepared. Knowing we are ready is comforting. More importantly, preparation will bode well for a better outcome should we be challenged by a hurricane or other disaster. In the aggregate, many stressors can be overwhelming. Breaking down the potential for aggravation and destruction into smaller pieces will be easier to manage. The old metaphor, “You can eat an elephant one bite at a time,” also applies to hurricane stress. With the above in mind, let’s review four major areas for hurricane stress with an eye to controlling the aggravation and anxiety as well as securing a safe outcome. Physical Stress Having a good supply of your regular medications with adequate water and food along with a safe place to sleep—all high and dry—will probably save more lives than any other preparation. Resupply after a hurricane may take at least a few days for common items such as water and food. Prescription drugs may take longer as the supply chain and delivery systems are specific and secure. Southwest Florida’s hurricanes move over our region in hours typically. Injuries happen before the winds start when people hurt
26
themselves while buttoning-up their homes and businesses. After the storm, the injury rate and ER visits resume as well-intentioned homeowners exceed their abilities while cleaning up, subsequently causing accidents. At this time people have been worried and sleep deprived. Even when not stressed, some would not be capable of the work needed. Roof falls, chainsaw accidents, and back injuries are all common during clean-up. Mental Stress An underestimated real stress is the mental anxiety and uncertainty caused by a potentially new experience if you are a recent arriver to Southwest Florida. Or even if you have been through hurricanes in the past, you are older now, thus not as tolerant of the hassle and troublesomeness of a change in your daily pattern of life. With modern communications our media keeps us informed. But watching the developing pattern of an approaching storm, with the added “hype” of trying to get slow or nonresponders moving, can have the unwanted and paradoxical effect on normally prepared citizens of “making us crazy.” We can overreact, lose sleep, stop eating or over-eat, and generally be miserable rather than keep a good perspective. A healthy attitude towards preparation and response as well as an optimistic outlook will make a storm experience less formidable. Storm Stress Once the storm is upon us, being with others whom you trust will make a world of difference. Having a like-minded group of prepared folks with you could make riding out the storm almost enjoyable. Really, this is not a party but rather a mutual support system, as no one is as smart, strong, or resilient as all of us together. Having clear communications among the group, a secure nest to hunker down in, and some
simple activities to occupy your mind will help you save energy for the recovery post storm. Healthcare systems across Florida do mock drill for hurricanes. NCH has complete redundancy on both our campuses—Baker and North Naples. We generate our own electricity and stock up pre-storm with medicines and supplies. We also have large walk-in freezers and refrigerators which we fill with food to carry us through at least a few days. We also open our emergency command center which communicates and cooperates directly with the County Emergency Service. Within both hospitals we have two full teams of nurses, physicians, and support staff. The teams rotate in twelve hour shifts, always providing a wellrested team to care for patients. We do not perform elective surgery and do try to lower the census before the hurricane to have excess capacity after the storm. However, we deliver babies, stop heart attacks and strokes, and do all other emergency care needed, just like any other normal day. Post Storm First, breathe a sigh of relief; then assess the damage. At this point, unless there is a life threatening environmental situation, take your time in starting the clean-up and getting back to a normal life. Obviously, follow directions from our hurricane public safety officers to avoid an accident. Everyone will have an interesting story about what just happened. Sharing experiences by talking about the stresses and how we handled ourselves will help everyone recover from the unwanted hurricane experience. Helping a neighbor who might be frail or in need is also the right thing to do at such a time. You can help everyone including yourself live a longer, happier, and healthy life by having the right attitude and being hurricane ready.
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PREPARING FOR THE STORM
Prepare Your boat
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.
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.
General Precautions and Damage Prevention •
• •
•
•
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, fire-fighting 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.
29
PREPARING FOR THE STORM
PREPARE YOUR
PETS
By Brian Wierima Gulf Coast Humane Society Community Relations Coordinator
W
hen a hurricane is blowing in, Florida residents know firsthand how to be prepared and ready for almost anything the wind and rain brings. Your family preparedness needs to also include your pets. As the saying goes, prepare for the worst and make sure your pets are included in those plans. Leaving your pets behind to fend for themselves should not be in that plan. Instead, plan ahead and map out safe havens which accept pets. Research local shelter policies and contact your veterinarian for emergency facilities which do accept pets. Don’t wait for a mandatory evacuation order. Some people who have waited were told to leave their pet behind. If evacuation is required by authorities, plans of lodging outside the area need to be made. Research the surrounding areas for hotels, shelters or any other lodging - which can include friends and relatives - in which an extended stay can happen with your pets. Now that plans are made for lodging and shelter which accepts pets, have your emergency caretaker’s number handy, in case you are not home. This trustworthy individual will have access to your home and knows the plan of taking care of your animals. Always have an emergency kit made up for hurricanes, which can result in long periods of time without water or power. Your pets also need their own emergency kits, as well. Extra water specifically for your animals is the No. 1 and most important item in your pets’ emergency kit. A week’s worth of water for you,
30
your family and pets is highly recommended. Wet food is also important, because canned items last longer and the moisture in the food will help extend your pets’ water rations. Don’t forget to have a can opener handy, as well. Have an extra supply of your pets’ medications in advance by talking to your vet and securing extra prescriptions in case of an extended evacuation. Extra cat litter and doggy bags will be needed to stay sanitary and lessen the chances of spreading diseases. When arriving at a potential shelter, boarding your pet maybe required. Having papers, proof of recent vaccinations, photos of your pet and proof of ownership, in a watersealed container will eliminate much hassle in boarding a pet at a shelter. Also have ID tags and vaccination tags on your pets’ collar. For more convenient mobility, always have a supply of leashes and pet carriers handy. These will be a big help in your pets’ safety or prevent them from running into harmful conditions. Finally, always have your pets’ favorite toys and items which will help calm them down. Anything to take the stress off your pets during a frightening time, can take stress off you. Thinking ahead of the storm season is also a way to take pressure off when the wind starts whipping. Having your pet microchipped is important, simply because your chances of being reunited with a lost pet goes up twofold if they can be scanned and identified. Adding stickers to your windows allows rescuers know there are animals which live there. Have your pets vaccinated well in advance, because in the aftermath of a hurricane, diseases are more prevalent due to the flooding which causes sanitary problems.
Not all pets are dogs or cats. For birds, they should have a secure cage. A blanket over the cage may help reduce the stress of travelling. Also a spray bottle to moisten your bird’s feathers in warm weather will be needed. Be sure to have plenty of liners for the cage and a perch for the bird to grasp. Reptiles need secure housing. Snakes need a sturdy bowl that is large enough to soak in and it may be good to bring along a heating pad or other warming device. Lizards can be transported like birds. Other small animals such as hamsters and mice can be transported in a secure carrier with bedding materials, food and food bowls. Remember to have an extra water bottle and a week’s worth of bedding. For more information and a detailed list of disaster preparedness go to aspca.org. Having a plan in place and executing that plan, will only make a very unstable situation go more smoothly. Your family and pets will be the better for it. For a list of Potential Pet-Friendly Shelters see page 45.
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PREPARING FOR THE STORM
Review your
insurance
I
nsurance policy details are critical. As hurricane season approaches, it is important to review your policy. Remember: If Florida is under a hurricane watch or warning, it is likely too late to purchase insurance. Here are some details to review about your insurance: •
• •
•
•
32
Windstorm insurance typically carries a much higher deductible than other coverage. Take your insurance documents with you if you leave the area because of the storm. Scan your insurance documents into your computer and then mail those files to an email account. New or increased coverage cannot be issued when a tropical storm or hurricane watch or warning is in place for any part of Florida. Consider purchasing flood insurance, which is usually written separately from homeowners insurance.
•
•
• •
•
•
Make certain the amount of your coverage matches the value of your home. List any steps you have taken to protect your home, such as installing storm shutters. Understand in the event of a loss, you would receive the cash value of your belongings or whether your policy specifies replacement. Understand what is covered ... or not. When hurricane warnings are issued, the Florida Department of Financial Services is mobilized to assist with insurance and banking questions. The toll-free hot line is 800-22- STORM. Everyone lives in a flood zone in Southwest Florida. You don’t simply need to live near the water to be flooded. Many flooded areas are caused by overloaded drainage systems. Flood damage is not covered by your home owners policy.
•
You can purchase flood insurance no matter what your flood risk is, as long as your community participates in the National Flood Insurance Program. A maximum of $250,000 of building coverage is available for single-family residential buildings and per unit in a condominium. Commercial structures can be insured to a limit of $500,000.
•
Call your insurance agent for details about how to get flood insurance. Plan ahead because there is usually at least a 30-day waiting period before any flood insurance goes into effect. Content coverage is separate. Up to $100,000 contents coverage is available. Federal disaster assistance is only available if the President declares a disaster. A rule of thumb: About 90 percent of all disasters in the United States are not declared disasters by the President.
•
• •
PREPARING FOR THE STORM
Stock up on Supplies
S
Now
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. Keep gas tanks full. 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.
the essentials • • • •
Documents
¨ Important telephone numbers ¨ Record of bank account numbers ¨ Family records (birth, marriage,
¨ Prescription drugs (minimum
two-week supply)
¨ Record of credit card account
¨ Aspirin or non-aspirin supply ¨ Contact lenses and supplies ¨ Heart and high blood pressure
medicine
death certificates) numbers and companies
¨ Inventory of valuable household goods deeds, stocks and bonds
¨ Copy of passports, social security
cards, immunization records, etc.
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 Medical
¨ First aid kits (for home and car) ¨ Insulin ¨ Denture needs 34
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.
¨ Insect repellent ¨ Itch-relief cream
¨ Copy of will, insurance policies,
Sanitation
¨ 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 TV ¨ 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)
¨ Manual can opener/utility knife
One gallon of water per person per day. Additional water for food preparation and sanitation. Bags of ice. Partially fill plastic one-liter or larger soft drink bottles with water and place in the freezer. The bottles will freeze without cracking. If the power goes out, the frozen water will help keep the freezer cool and when the ice melts, the water will be drinkable.
¨ 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 ¨ Thermos for hot food and
coolers/ice for cold food
¨ 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
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Grill & Fill Inc.
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after THE STORM
The Storm is
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.
36
Now Over
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.
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37
after THE STORM
What the Storm
leaves Behind
GENERATOR HAZARDS From 1999 to 2010, nearly 600 generator-related carbon monoxide deaths have been reported. 1.
Be
sure to read the owner’s manual and follow the manufacturer’s
recommendations!
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.
2. Do NOT use a generator until it is properly grounded. 3. Plug devices directly into the generator. NEVER “back feed” your house circuits or connect your generator to your house wiring. Do NOT overload the generator capacity. 4. BE AWARE OF CARBON MONOXIDE POISONING. Never use a generator indoors, outside under a window, on a covered patio, or in any space without adequate ventilation. NEVER OPERATE INDOORS! 5. Keep flammable items away. The generator exhaust system is very hot. 6. NEVER refuel your generator inside your home or while it is hot. A serious fire could result. 7. Prevent electric shock. Do NOT use in wet areas. 8. Check all electrical cords to be sure the insulation is in good condition and check the oil and fuel level before starting motor.
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: 239-252-2380 DeSoto: 863-993-4831 Glades: 863-946-6020 Hendry: 863-674-5400 Lee: 239-533-8000
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. 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. Pool Care Remove as much debris by hand as possible and lower the water level to normal. Add a
38
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. • 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.
PROTECT YOUR HEALTH AND HOME
Hurricanes and tropical storms can cause damage to personal property, flooding, and even personal injury. Even if you and your property are unharmed, power outages are a guarantee and can last for a couple of days or possibly weeks. Losing power during the hottest months of the year is difficult, but sustained outages are also a safety hazard for your family and your home. A major health concern of a power outage is that it only takes three days for mold to grow in ducts and vents of an air conditioner that isn`t running and after seven days it begins to appear on the walls. A power outage can also leave your home without a security system, making it vulnerable. Installing a home standby generator will allow you to safeguard your lifestyle and personal property in the aftermath of a storm.
DON’T BLACK OUT!
You’ve invested in the piece of mind a generator provides so why not ensure it powers up when you need it most? Routine, periodic maintenance is essential in keeping your generator in optimum working condition. Despite having regular maintenance, just like your car, a generator is an engine and can still malfunction, leaving your generator inoperative. That is why Naples Generator developed a monitoring system, to make sure that your generator is always ready for any power outage. Our monitoring system uses a cellular device to keep watch on the generator and transfer switch at all times. It will notify Naples Generator and the customer if a failure should occur, such as the generator not starting or the transfer switch malfunctioning. A good maintenance program along with the monitoring system on your home standby generator really can be the difference between a storm simply inconveniencing you, or it causing significant harm to your house, and your family`s safety.
39
after THE STORM
dangers of electricity
W
hat should I do after a storm has passed? Although the storm has passed, there are many dangers that still exist. Take the proper precautions to prevent further crisis. Play it safe and focus on yourself, family, neighbors and emergency workers during cleanup and repair. If you have any doubts about safety, err on the side of caution. Help keep utility telephone lines clear for emergency calls by only calling to report downed power lines. However, if your neighbor’s power has been restored and yours is still out, please call your utility company. How can I keep my family safe after a hurricane or major storm? Often the most devastating time during a disaster occurs during recovery. Having to return to your home or business, assess damage and perform clean up can be a very difficult task. Make that time safe and productive. • If your electrical equipment has gotten wet or is near water, turn off the power at the main breaker. If you must enter water to access the main switch, call an electrician to turn it off. • Do not turn electrical equipment back on until it has been inspected by a qualified electrician. • Stay clear of downed power lines, as they may still be energized and dangerous. Puddles of water contacting downed lines are just as dangerous. • Do not trim trees or remove debris located near downed power lines. • If you must remove debris from in or around your home, do not pile it under or near electrical lines or equipment. • If appliances were on when the power was lost, make sure all appliances are turned off. If left on, they could pose fire hazards when the power is restored. • Refrain from using candles. Use a batteryoperated flashlight as light source.
40
How is power restored after a storm? • After a storm has passed, your electric provider quickly begins to assess the damage to the electric system. • Your electric provider then begins restoring power to essential services such as hospitals, traffic signals, shelters, communication centers and law enforcement. • Next, power is restored to the greatest number of customers in the least amount of time. • Finally, individual services or services that need to be reconnected after repair to the customer’s damaged electrical system are restored. What If My Neighbor Has Power But I Don’t? First, check all circuit breakers by resetting them. If your breakers aren’t the problem, one of the following situations may have occurred: 1. You may be on a different power feeder line or power transformer. 2. The transformer serving your location may be damaged. These are the last system devices to be repaired because resources are focused on restoring the greatest number of customers first. 3. Your weather head conduit (the pipe and wire extending above your roof) is damaged or bent. If so, you must have an electrician repair it and have an inspection before power can be restored. 4. You own your own underground service and it may damaged, which could be caused by tree roots. If so, you must have it repaired by an electrician and inspected before power can be restored.
About ELECTRONICS •
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 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 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.
PEOPLE. POWER. POSSIBILITIES. At LCEC, planning and preparing for storm restoration takes place year-round. Rest assured that if a storm comes our way, LCEC is ready! Our number one goal is to restore power as quickly and safely as possible throughout our five-county service territory.
www.lcec.net
239-656-2300
after THE STORM
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. Hand Washing/Sanitization Wash hands often with soap and clean water. If unsure about the water source, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer to decrease the risk of illness, infection and disease causing bacteria. 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.
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.
42
Carbon Monoxide Carbon monoxide is a colorless, tasteless and odorless poison that can be prevented. Do not burn charcoal or gas grills or gaspowered 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.
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.
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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.
area shelters & Refuges of last resort Shelters
open
when
determined
make an announcement at the time of a storm. PLEASE NOTE: Do not depend on a particular shelter/refuge site being open. Shelter/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.
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! Pets are NOT allowed in public shelters - they are ONLY allowed in shelters labeled PET FRIENDLY. Service animals are allowed in ALL shelters, and are trained to perform a service for their owner. Residents who intend to go to a public shelter must make other arrangements to ensure their pet’s safety and care in the event of an evacuation.
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by
Emergency Management officials who will
shelters
CHARLOTTE COUNTY Emergency Operations Center 941-833-4000 charlottecountyfl.gov/services/ emergencymgmt/Pages/default.aspx *All Charlotte County Shelters are now Pet Friendly
Englewood Lemon Bay High School Myakka River Elementary School
Mike Davis Elementary School Naples High School North Collier Regional Park - Pet Friendly* *Pre-registration is required
North Naples Middle School Oakridge Middle School
Liberty Elementary School Meadow Park Elementary School Murdock Middle School
Veterans Community Park Vineyards Elementary School
DESOTO COUNTY Emergency Operations Center
863-993-4831 | desotobocc.com
South County Regional Park
GLADES COUNTY
Rotonda
863-946-6020 | myglades.com
Immokalee Highlands Elementary School Immokalee Friendship House Immokalee High School Immokalee Middle School Pinecrest Elementary School Village Oaks Elementary School
Naples Barron Collier High School Big Cypress Elementary Corkscrew Elem/Middle School Cypress Palm Middle School Golden Gate Intermediate School Golden Gate Middle School Golden Gate High School Golden Terrace Intermediate School Gulf Coast High School Laurel Oak Elementary School Lely High School
Bonita Springs YMCA
Island Coast High School
Estero Estero Recreation Center Germain Arena
Punta Gorda
239-252-3600 | colliergov.net/em
Bonita Springs
Cape Coral
South Florida State College - Special Needs
Emergency Operations Center
LEE COUNTY Emergency Operations Center 239-533-0622 | leeeoc.com
St. Matthews House
Desoto Middle School
COLLIER COUNTY
LaBelle Middle School - Primary Shelter
Sable Palm Elementary School
Port Charlotte Middle School
Vineland Elementary School
LaBelle High School
Pelican Marsh Elementary
Arcadia
L.A. Ainger Middle School
LaBelle Elementary School
Parkside Elementary School
Port Charlotte High School
Sallie Jones Elementary School
Country Oaks Elementary School
Palmetto Ridge High School - Special Needs
Port Charlotte Kingsway Elementary School
LaBelle
Emergency Operations Center
Buckhead Ridge Buckhead Ridge VFW
Lakeport Maple Grove Baptist Church
MOoRE HAVEN
Fort Myers South Fort Myers High School - Pet Friendly
Lehigh Acres E. Lee County High School - Pet Friendly Harns Marsh Elementary School Harns Marsh Middle School Mirror Lakes Elementary School Varsity Lakes Middle School Veterans Park Recreation Center
North Fort Myers N. Fort Myers Academy of the Arts North Fort Myers Recreation Center
Glades County Health Department-
San Carlos
Special Needs
Alico Arena
Moore Haven High School
Tice Oak Hammock Middle School
Muse Muse Community Assn. West Glades Elementary - Special Needs
HENDRY COUNTY Emergency Operations Center 863-674-5400 hendryfla.net/emergency_management.php
Clewiston Central Elementary School Clewiston High School Clewiston Middle School - Primary Shelter Eastside Elementary School Westside Elementary School 45
important numbers & websites
Emergency Operations Centers
•
floridadisaster.org: This is the state’s
To Volunteer and Donate •
•
Lee: 239-533-0622
Emergency Operations Center’s
•
Collier: 239-252-3600
website for up-to-date statewide
•
Charlotte: 941-833-4000
information, news alerts and
•
DeSoto: 863-993-4831
contact information about storms,
•
Glades: 863-946-6020
evacuations, storm surge and shelter
•
Hendry: 863-674-5400 •
800-725-2769 •
Agency help
hotels.petswelcome.com for pet
•
instructions to prepare for natural
Registration: 800-621-3362
Contractor Information
disasters, including action plans,
TTY: 800-462- 7585
•
safe rooms and the National Flood
FEMA Fraud Hotline: 866-720-5721
•
Report false claims: 800-323-8603
• •
Florida Association of Electrical
Insurance Program. •
•
Cross keeps residents informed
Florida Wall and Ceiling Contractors
about response and recovery
Associated Builders and Contractors
operations. •
of Florida (ABC): 813-879-8064
Safe & Wellness Helpline to see if
Financial Services is an organization
844-221-4160
•
that is mobilized to assist with
Financial Services Hurricane Help
American Red Cross Offices
line: 800-227-8676
•
Red Cross Food, Shelter and
Lee, Hendry, Glades and Collier:
banking and insurance concerns. •
flash.org: This is the Federal Alliance
239-596-6868
for Safe Homes, an organization
Charlotte & DeSoto: 941-629-4345
dedicated to promoting disaster
Charlotte, Sarasota, Manatee
Financial Assistance: 866-438-4636
•
•
DCF Information: 866-762-2237
•
•
Elder Helpline: 800-963-5337
counties and Tampa:
•
Attorney General’s Price Gouging
flwestcoastredcross.org
Manufactured Home Owners is a
Collier, Lee, Hendry, Glades:
consumer advocate that promotes
redcross.org/southflorida
hurricane safety.
Hotline: 866-966-7226 •
•
Report unlicensed activity: 866-532-1440
• • •
Verify contractor licenses: 850-487-1395
Power Companies
Agricultural and Consumer Services:
•
FPL: 800-468-8243
800-435-7352
•
LCEC: 800-599-2356
Domestic Animal Services:
•
Glades Electric Co-Op:
239-533-7387 - Lee
800-226-4024
239-252-7387 - Collier
After a disaster Online Resources •
You can donate food, water and money:
www.nhc.noaa.gov: The National
The Harry Chapin Food Bank, 3760
Oceanic and Atmospheric
Fowler St., Fort Myers. Call 239-334-7007
Administration experts at the
or harrychapinfoodbank.org
National Hurricane Center are leading authorities on Atlantic Basin hurricanes and tropical storms.
46
myfloridacfo.com: In the event of a storm, the Florida Department of
people are OK or in a shelter: •
redcross.org: The American Red
Contractors: 407-260-1511 Association: 407-260-1313
State of Florida Emergency Info 24-hour hotline: 800-342-3557
Division of Workers’ Compensation: 800-742-2214
U.S. Small Business Administration:
•
•
website. It offers detailed
FEMA Disaster Assistance/
800-659-2955 TTY: 800-877-8339
•
fema.gov: This is the Federal Emergency Management Agency
Hotlines
•
American Red Cross: 800-435-7669
information. friendly lodging in Florida.
•
Salvation Army Donation Hotline:
safety and property loss mitigation. •
fmo1.org: The Federation of
Lee County
Collier County 239.304.0343
239.540.5940
Charlotte County 941.235.1115
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weather information
oN THE GO severe
weather information
TO DOWNLOAD THE WINK WEATHER APP Download the WINK Weather app now by searching “WINK Weather” in the app store on your smart phone or tablet. You’ll quickly see why WINK News is Southwest Florida’s Weather Authority on-air, on line or on your mobile.
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LET ME CHECK YOUR
INSURANCE
COVERAGE I’ll take a look at your policies. I’ll help you make sure your coverage is hurricane-ready. And don’t forget flood insurance. There’s a 30-day waiting period before it starts, so now’s the time to get it. I can help. For more easy ways to prepare, call me first.
Cathy Sink 239-561-8600 13650 Fiddlesticks Blvd., #203 Fort Myers cathysink@allstate.com
Auto insurance issued by Allstate Fire and Casualty Insurance Company, Northbrook, IL. Property insurance issued by Castle Key Insurance Company and Castle Key Indemnity Company, St. Petersburg, FL. The assets and obligations of the Castle Key companies are separate and distinct from those of any other company in the Allstate group. 49
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AN EASY WAY TO PREPARE FOR A HURRICANE
STOCK UP ON STORM ESSENTIALS. B
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