Northwest Florida Area Agency on Aging

Before the Storm...

Every year, prior to hurricane season, you and your family should review your hurricane plan and make changes as necessary. Your plan should include IF you will evacuate, WHERE you will go, THE ROUTE you will take to get there, WHEN you will leave and WHAT SUPPLIES YOU WILL TAKE.

If you plan to say home, make sure you have all of the supplies necessary to be on your own for at least 72 hours.

  • Water in plastic containers
  • Can opener
  • Protective clothing, rain wear
  • Battery-powered radio
  • Non-perishable food
  • First aid kit and essential medicines
  • Bedding or sleeping bag
  • Flashlight and extra batteries
  • Special items for infant, elderly, or disabled family members
  • If you are planning to go to an evacuation shelter, have your shelter supplies kit packed and ready.

  • Change of clothing, rain gear and sturdy shoes
  • Blankets or sleeping bags
  • Identification and any important papers
  • Non-perishable foods for snacks
  • Flashlights and plenty of spare batteries
  • All medications you normally take (packed and ready)
  • Toiletries and personal items
  • Games or toys for children
  • Any special dietary needs
  • Battery operated radio
  • Make sure you have all the materials on hand to protect your home. You should keep trees and shrubbery trimmed. Review your insurance policy or contact your insurance agent and make sure you know what your policy covers and does not cover.

    If the storm is threatening, listen to the local radio, TV stations, or the weather radio for information, alerts and possible evacuation orders. Listed below are additional things that you should do before the storm:

  • Fuel your car and get an extra supply of cash
  • Bring in outdoor objects such as lawn furniture, toys and garden tools
  • Install your storm shutters or cover windows with plywood
  • Prepare boats as appropriate
  • Turn up refrigerators and freezers to highest settings
  • Turn off small appliances that are not needed, turn off LP tanks
  • Call an out-of-town friend or relative to let them know of your plans. Then instruct other family members to call that person for information about your family after the storm.
  • Fill sinks and bathtubs with water
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    Department of Elder Affairs The Northwest Florida Area Agency on Aging, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) private, not-for-profit charitable organization funded under the Older Americans Act and the State of Florida Department of Elder Affairs.

    Page was last updated on 3/19/2004.
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