June marks the start of the Atlantic hurricane season, which runs until November 30. NOAA predicted an“above normal” season and forecasts 21 named storms, including up to 10 hurricanes. Six of those could reach Category 3 or higher.
AARP Florida is your fierce advocate, there with resources to help you prepare for all aspects of your life, including natural disasters. We know it is not a matter of “if” Florida will be hit by hurricanes, but “when,” so it is important to prepare for when disaster strikes.
Here are some hurricane prep tips:
- Hurricane Kits: AARP recommends you build two different kits – a “stay kit” and a “go kit”
*Stay Kit: This kit will contain items you’ll need to ride out the storm at home – flash lights,
candles, batteries, canned foods, bottled water, medications, etc.
*Go Kit: This kit will contain items you’ll need if you evacuate – clothing, bottled water,
medications, identification, insurance information, money, food, and COVID-19 safety items
including masks, rubber gloves, sanitizing wipes, etc. - Evacuation Plan: AARP recommends you build an evacuation plan ahead of time, including options for routes and hotel accommodations, stops for food/gas, and whether or not you can bring your pets.
Make sure you call ahead to hotels to make sure you can find lodging when needed. - Sheltering with family or friends: The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) urges Americans to consider shelter in place or evacuate to the homes of family members or friends outside the storm area. Should you choose to go to a local hurricane shelter, it is recommended you observe the latest COVID-19 safety guidelines.
Floridians with special needs such as medical support, mobility assistance and more are urged to use the Florida Special Needs Registry when planning for hurricane season. First responders use this registry when planning where to place special-needs shelters in advance of emergencies as well as checking on individuals and families in the aftermath of storms. The registry site also has important information and useful resources. If your loved one is living with dementia or unable to register, you may register as their caregiver.
AARP Florida also has a robust collection of updated disaster preparation resources including tips, checklists, scam prevention and protection information, and video libraries on the Hurricane Preparedness, Response & Resources (En Español). You’re also encouraged to follow our social media accounts at Facebook and Twitter for frequent updates.
Disaster Preparedness Videos
How to Prepare Your Home for Hurricane Season (En Español)
Review Insurance and Other Documentation Before Hurricane Season (En Español)
When to Evacuate, Options and Shelters (En Español)
Generator Safety Videos
Generator Power
Fixed Generators
Basic Safety Portables
Fuel Storage Safety
You will find localized information on this year’s hurricane season, information on evacuation zones, shelters and the registration process for your area at the following sites:
Pasco County
Pinellas County
Polk County
Hernando County
Hillsborough County
To learn more about disaster preparation or ask questions, please visit our website, email or call 866.595.7678.
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AARP Florida is here to connect you to resources to help you prepare for this year’s hurricane season. Find information, tips, videos, ideas for “stay” and “go” kits, and links to your county’s emergency management office at our website (link to https://states.aarp.org/florida/fldisasterhelp?CMP=RDRCT-CSN-LOCAL-102418).
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