FLORIDA – Twelve to 15 named storms … six to nine hurricanes … including two to three major hurricanes. That is what experts expect for this year’s hurricane season. The Florida Governmental Utility Authority (FGUA) has one question for you: Are you prepared?

Now is the time to focus our collective efforts on the potentially lifesaving benefits of planning and preparation.

FGUA prepares year-round to minimize the impact of storms on its customers, with a priority focus on preventing service disruptions by investing in upgraded systems, working with electric utilities to expedite the restoration of power, and sharing timely information through its website and the news media.

Begin early preparations now 

Before the season begins, take care of things that require a bit more time, but which will have you prepared and ready to respond when the warnings come. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) offers these top tips which are covered in greater detail at noaa.gov/hurricane-prep:

• Strengthen your home if possible.
• Get an insurance checkup and document your possessions.
• Develop an evacuation plan.
• Create a communication plan with a hand-written/printed list of contacts.
• Assemble disaster supplies.

When the watches and warnings come: Have your go-bag ready

Having a comprehensive disaster supply kit assembled and ready is critical. The State of Florida offers a detailed, printable checklist which can be found at floridadisaster.org. This list covers items in several categories including general, phone numbers, clothing, special needs, first aid, food and water, important documents, vehicle readiness and pet care.

At a minimum, make sure you have the following items in your hurricane preparedness kit:

• 3-5 days of non-perishable food and water (1 gallon per person/day),
• A battery-powered or hand-crank radio,
• Flashlights and extra batteries,
• A first-aid kit,
• Essential medications,
• Cash and important documents,
• Pet supplies.

Water, water everywhere: Is it safe to drink?

Even with the best preparation, equipment and systems, Mother Nature is a powerful competitor. Heavy rainfall, widespread flooding, water main breaks from uprooted trees and loss of power to pumping stations may result in loss of water pressure and contaminated water which can cause illness. In these situations, watch for boil water notices. For drinking or cooking with water during these limited periods, a rolling boil for a period of at least one minute is sufficient. Alternatively, bottled water may be used.