Since hurricane season is here, now is the time to prepare your family, home, and finances for potential storms. Living in Florida means that hurricanes and tropical storms are a reality, but taking simple steps before a storm develops can help reduce stress and protect what matters most.

Build an Emergency Supply Kit

Every household should have enough supplies to be self-sufficient for at least seven days. Your emergency kit should include:

• One gallon of water per person per day,
• Non-perishable foods and a manual can opener,
• Prescription medications and medical supplies,
• Flashlights and extra batteries,
• First aid supplies,
• Cell phone chargers and backup power banks,
• Personal hygiene items,
• Pet food and supplies, if applicable.

Store supplies in a designated location that is easy to access during an emergency.

Create a Family Emergency Plan

Families should discuss how they will communicate and where they will go if evacuation becomes necessary. Be sure every family member knows:

• Emergency contact information,
• Evacuation routes and shelter locations,
• Meeting locations if separated,
• How to receive emergency alerts and updates.

Practice your plan annually so everyone knows what to do during an emergency.

Protect Important Documents

Gather important documents such as identification, insurance policies, medical records, property records, and financial information. Store copies in a waterproof container and consider creating digital backups stored securely online or on a flash drive.

Prepare Your Finances

Unexpected expenses often follow a disaster. Consider setting aside emergency savings to cover evacuation costs, temporary lodging, food, fuel, and repairs. Review your insurance policies annually to understand what is covered and update coverage if needed.

Prepare Your Home

Inspect your home before storm season begins. Trim trees, secure outdoor furniture, clean gutters, and check shutters or other window protection. Taking preventative measures can help minimize damage during high winds and heavy rain.

Stay Informed

Monitor weather forecasts throughout hurricane season and sign up for local emergency alerts. Waiting until a storm is approaching can make it difficult to find supplies and complete preparations.

Helpful Resources

For trusted hurricane preparedness information, visit:

• UF/IFAS Disaster Preparation and Recovery Resources, www.sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/disaster-prep-and-recovery/
• UF/IFAS Hurricane Preparation Resources, www.ask.ifas.ufl.edu/topics/hurricane-preparation
• Florida Division of Emergency Management, FloridaDisaster.org
• National Hurricane Center, www.nhc.noaa.gov/
• Hurricane Preparedness Information, www.ready.gov

Hurricane preparedness is not a one-time event; it is an ongoing process. By preparing early, families can improve their safety, reduce stress, and recover more quickly after a storm. For additional information and local preparedness resources, contact UF/IFAS Extension Citrus County office.