Floridians Need To Watch, Prepare For Potential Storms
Release Date: September 7, 2008
Release Number: 1785-024
» More Information on Florida Tropical Storm Fay
ORLANDO, Fla. -- With many Floridians still dealing with the aftermath of Tropical Storm Fay, state and federal emergency management officials urge residents to re-stock their emergency kits and review their disaster plans.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency and Florida's emergency response team want residents to be prepared and ready to evacuate if ordered to do so:
Review your family disaster plan.
- Where will you go in an evacuation? Will you stay with family or friends, go to a motel or shelter? Don't forget about pets. Many shelters will not permit them, so know in advance where pet-friendly shelters are located;
- Know your evacuation routes and stay current with traffic reports; and
- Go over your family's communication plan. Have a friend or relative in another state or city serve as a point of contact in case family members are separated.
Check or restock your portable disaster kit in case of evacuation. It should include:
- At least a three-day supply of food and bottled water for each family member;
- A manual can opener;
- Battery-powered radio and flashlights with extra batteries;
- First aid kit with family members' medications;
- Hygiene and personal care items;
- Emergency contact list and phone numbers;
- Pet supplies;
- Copies of important papers, including insurance policies and bank account information; and
- Emergency cash and credit card in the case of an evacuation with little notice.
Stay informed about threatening storms, know the risks and be prepared to evacuate.
- If evacuation seems likely or a storm likely, reinforce windows and garage doors against strong winds;
- Be ready to move if you are instructed to leave your home for an evacuation;
- If you do not have a car, plan now for alternative means of transportation; and
- Remember, don't drive through deep water that may contain submerged hazards.
FEMA coordinates the federal government's role in preparing for, preventing, mitigating the effects of, responding to, and recovering from all domestic disasters, whether natural or man-made, including acts of terror.
Last Modified: Monday, 08-Sep-2008 09:37:25