Preparing for Hurricane Season

Weather conditions will deteriorate rapidly as the storm gets closer. All your preparations should have been made. If you missed anything, it may be too late to prepare further. Stay indoors, away from windows and doors. Use the phone for urgent calls only. Avoid contact with the phone if you hear thunder.

Insurance

Flooding is generally not covered under standard homeowner policies, so ask your agent about flood insurance, which is available through the National Insurance Flood Program. If you rent a house or apartment, talk to your agent about purchasing a renters insurance policy if you don't already have one.

Take photos or slides and make an inventory of personal belongings and think about purchasing a renters insurance policy for your personal possessions. Store the inventory information off the premises, i.e, at the office or in a safe deposit box. Review your insurance coverage. Wind damage may be covered under a standard homeowners policy, but it is very important to check with your insurance provider to assure that you're covered. Ask your agent to review the policy limits, including coverage for contents.

Hurricane Preparedness Presentation

Emergency Management Officials will be glad to schedule a free presentation about Hurricane Preparedness for groups (Condo Associations, Mobile Home Parks, Civic Organizations, Homeowners Associations, etc.) Call 772-220-3917.

Watch vs. Warning

• A tropical storm or hurricane "watch" means that tropical storm or hurricane conditions are a possible threat within 48 hours in the specified region. Begin preliminary preparations to protect life and property. Stay tuned to your local news for updates.
• A tropical storm or hurricane "warning" means tropical storm or hurricane conditions are expected in a specified region within 36 hours. All of your preparations should be completed.

Evacuation Zones

If you live in an evacuation zone but did not evacuate, you may still be able to escape rising water. Emergency managers suggest you look for a last resort refuge. Evacuation zones are prone to surge flooding, so if you are trapped in an evacuation zone as the storm is hitting, try to get into a two story or taller building. If you are in a high-rise, avoid the upper floors because winds are stronger the higher you go. Try to quickly, identify a safe room (i.e, parking garage, interior room, etc.).

Remember: Winds and storm surge from tropical storms are not normally as strong as a hurricane. However, many tropical storms (and even tropical depressions) may contain tornadoes, torrential rains, and flooding.

A hurricane can be a terrifying experience. Your survival may depend on your ability to think quickly and clearly. Talk or read to young children. Explain what they are hearing, as hurricane winds can be very loud and frightening. Reassure them that it may take a while, but eventually the storm will pass. Children can sense when adults are upset. Keep a clear head for their sake and yours.