?? Preparing for Hurricane Season: Essential Tips for Central Florida Families ??

As hurricane season approaches, it’s more important than ever for Central Florida families to be prepared. We’ve compiled essential tips and resources to help you confidently navigate the stormy season. Stay safe, stay informed, and take proactive steps to protect your loved ones.

1. Create a Family Emergency Plan

• Communication Strategy: Establish how your family will communicate if separated. Make sure everyone has important contact numbers and knows where to go in case of evacuation.
• Meeting Point: Designate a safe meeting place both within and outside your neighborhood.
• Special Needs Considerations: Account for family members with special needs, including medication, mobility issues, or young children.

2. Build a Hurricane Emergency Kit

• Essential Supplies: Stock up on non-perishable food, water (at least one gallon per person per day for three days), medications, and first-aid supplies.
• Tools and Safety Items: Include a flashlight, batteries, multi-tool, and hygiene products.
• Important Documents: Keep copies of important documents (ID, insurance, medical records) in a waterproof container.
• Pet Supplies: Don’t forget food, water, and any medications your pets may need.

3. Prepare Your Home

• Secure Outdoor Items: Bring in patio furniture, planters, and any loose items that could become projectiles in strong winds.
• Protect Windows and Doors: Install storm shutters or board up windows with plywood. Reinforce doors and garage doors.
• Trim Trees and Shrubs: Keep trees and shrubs well-trimmed to minimize the risk of falling branches.
• Check Insurance Coverage: Review your homeowner’s insurance policy to ensure it covers hurricane-related damage. Consider flood insurance if you don’t already have it.

4. Stay Informed

• Weather Updates: Monitor local news, the National Hurricane Center, and reliable weather apps for updates on storm paths and warnings.
• Evacuation Orders: Pay attention to local authorities and be ready to evacuate if advised. Know your evacuation route and have a plan for where to stay.
• Community Alerts: Sign up for community alert systems to receive real-time notifications on your phone.

5. Local Resources and Contacts for Central Florida

• Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM): Provides real-time updates on hurricane tracking, preparedness tips, and evacuation orders. Website : FloridaDisaster.org | Phone: 850-815-4000
• Orange County Emergency Management: Offers local emergency alerts and preparedness resources. Website: Orange County Emergency Management | Phone: 407-836-3111
• Central Florida Red Cross: Provides disaster relief services, including shelter information and emergency assistance. Website: Central Florida Red Cross | Phone: 407-894-4141

6. Know Your Evacuation Route

• Florida 511: Real-time traffic updates to help navigate evacuation routes efficiently. Website: FL511.com | Phone: Dial 511 from your phone for live traffic updates.
• Central Florida Evacuation Zones: Check your specific evacuation zone using local county websites: Orange County: Check Zone Seminole County: Seminole County Emergency Management Osceola County: Osceola County Emergency Management

7. Local Shelters

• Orange County Shelters: Find local shelters that open during hurricanes, including pet-friendly options. Website: Orange County Shelters
• Special Needs Shelters: Orange, Seminole, and Osceola counties offer shelters for residents with special needs. Pre-registration is required. Registration: Visit your county’s emergency management website to register.

8. Take Advantage of the Hurricane Supply Tax Holiday

• 2024 Florida Disaster Preparedness Sales Tax Holiday : Residents can purchase hurricane supplies like batteries, generators, and non-perishable food tax-free. Dates: Usually occurs in late May to early June. Check the Florida Department of Revenue’s website for exact dates.

9. After the Storm

• Assess Damage Carefully: Once it’s safe, check your home for damage. Avoid downed power lines and flooded areas.
• Document Losses: Take photos and document any damage to support insurance claims.
• Stay Safe: Be cautious of unsafe water, spoiled food, and mold growth. Follow official guidance on returning home and beginning repairs.

Stay safe, stay prepared, and take care of your family this hurricane season.

Best regards, Viv Cunningham, Your Central Florida Realtor

P.S. Don’t forget to share this newsletter with your friends and neighbors—let’s keep our community safe together!

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