Hurricane Preparation: Begin Making a Plan

The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 to October 31. If a storm threatens, will you and your family be ready? If you start preparing today, you can be.

You should start by making a plan. Sounds easy, but have you thought of everything? Try answering these questions:

• What kind of hazards could affect your family during a storm?
• Will your home be vulnerable to storm surge or flooding?
• Do you have flood insurance?
• Do you know if you live in an evacuation zone?
• Where would your family meet if separated?
• What would you do with your pets?

If you're not sure whether your home is in danger from storm surge, check the Florida Disaster Preparedness Maps for your county. If you think because you don't live along the coast that you're not vulnerable to flooding, think again... inland flooding is often the most deadly of all. Check your insurance coverage TODAY. Flood damage is not usually covered by homeowners insurance; and, once a hurricane is imminent, you can't get new insurance or make changes in your policy.

Your plan should include safe havens within your home or escape routes from your home and places to meet. Appoint an out-of-state family member or friend act as a single point of contact for your family members. It is important to have a place to go in case of an evacuation.

It is imperative that you have a plan in place for your pets.

The Florida Division of Emergency Management has an online tool to help you organize your family's disaster plan. Do it today... before a disaster happens!