Hurricane season is here. Are you prepared?

Basic Hurricane Safety Actions

Hurricane season began June 1^st and area emergency management officials want area residents to be ready in the event that a storm impacts the area this year. Don't wait until a storm is approaching to start making plans.

WATCH vs. WARNING - Know the difference A HURRICANE WATCH issued for your part of the coast indicates the possibility that you could experience hurricane conditions within 36 hours. This watch should trigger your family's disaster plan, and protective measures should be initiated, especially those actions that require extra time such as securing a boat, leaving a barrier island, etc. A HURRICANE WARNING issued for your part of the coast indicates that sustained winds of at least 74 mph are expected within 24 hours or less. Once this warning has been issued, your family should be in the process of completing protective actions and deciding the safest location to be during the storm.

The National Hurricane Center predicts that this year's hurricane season is expected to be a near to above-normal season. The outlook indicates a 60 to 70 percent chance of 12 to 16 named storms, including six to nine hurricanes and two to five major hurricanes that will be Category 3 or above.

While much is written and said in the media about how many tropical storms and hurricanes may hit, the reality for Sunshine State residents is it only takes one storm hitting your community, home, or business for it to be an "above average" season.

There are some basic precautions you can take in advance to make sure you and your family are as safe and prepared as possible.

Know your risk and vulnerability

Flood zones are different from storm surge zones (hurricane evacuation zones), which are caused by land-falling hurricanes. Know which hurricane evacuation zone you live in.

Have a Plan and Emergency Supplies

You should plan in advance what you will do if your home is in the path of a hurricane. Will you stay? Evacuate to a shelter? Leave town? Know in advance what is best for you and your family. If sheltering in your home, be prepared to make it on your own for at least three days, maybe longer. Think first about fresh water and food. Remember to include a battery-operated radio, first aid kits and medications. For examples of what should be included, check out the Emergency Preparedness Division's list, the American Red Cross Disaster Kit or FEMA's advice for disaster preparation.

For more information on disaster supply kits, visit:

http://www.ready.gov/america/index.html

http://nefloridaredcross.org/index.php?pr=Disaster_Supply_Kit  

For information on how to store and purify water, visit:

http://www.redcross.org/static/file_cont39_lang0_24.pdf

Register for Assistance

If you plan to evacuate to a shelter and require special medical needs during your stay; or are in need of transportation to a shelter, you must first register. Don’t wait until it’s too late.

Plan for your pets

Don't forget to include food in your emergency supplies kits. If you plan to go to a shelter remember many don’t accept pets. Plan ahead.

Stay informed!

Watch TV, listen to the radio or check the Internet often for information or official instructions as they become available. Make sure you have a battery powered radio if the power fails. If you're specifically told to evacuate, do so immediately.

Hurricane season is June 1 to Nov. 30. The peak of the season is August and September.