Page 19 - TIM_06-09-23

ARE YOU PREPARED FOR THE NEXT
HURRICANE?

South Florida, known for its stunning beaches and vibrant individuals, families, communities, and the school district
culture, is no stranger to the threat of hurricanes. Situated to prioritize hurricane preparedness to ensure their safety
in a region prone to tropical storms and hurricanes, we and minimize the impact of these storms, damage to your
must be well-prepared to face the challenges these property and endanger your family. There are a few steps
powerful weather events bring. With the potential we can all take to ensure we safely mitigate damage
for significant damage and disruption, it’s crucial for during hurricane season.

Preparedness Measures

Know Your Zone: Our area is Stay Informed: Keep track of
divided into evacuation zones weather updates from reputable
based on potential storm surge sources, such as the National
risks. Familiarize yourself with your Hurricane Center and local news
evacuation zone and have a plan in stations. Sign up for emergency alerts
place for evacuation if necessary. to receive timely information about
approaching storms.
Emergency Kits: Assemble a
comprehensive emergency kit with Local Evacuation Routes:
essential supplies such as non- Familiarize yourself with the
perishable food, water, medications, evacuation routes in your area and be
first aid supplies, flashlights, batteries, aware of where shelters are located.
and important documents. Ensure Follow official evacuation orders
you have enough supplies to last for when they are issued. Don’t wait too
at least three days. long to evacuate, as traffic will be
much heavier than usual.
Home Preparation: Strengthen your
home against hurricane damage by Hurricane Shelters: Municipal
installing impact-resistant windows or shelters should be your option of last
storm shutters. Trim trees and secure resort. Ensure you understand the
loose items in your yard to prevent rules and policies if you plan to go to
them from becoming dangerous a shelter.
projectiles in high winds.
Post-Storm Clean-Up: The majority
Family Communication Plan: of injuries occur AFTER the storm has
Develop a family communication plan passed. Take special care to avoid
that includes contact information and downed power or using tools you’re
a designated meeting place. Make not familiar with when clearing yard
sure every family member knows the debris.
plan and practices it through regular
drills. By staying informed, planning
ahead, and collaborating with local
Pet Safety: Don’t forget about your authorities, we can navigate the
pets. Have a plan for their evacuation stormy waters of hurricane season
and ensure you have enough pet with greater resilience. The District’s
supplies in your emergency kit. Not all Hurricane Preparedness Plan can be
shelters accept pets, so make sure to accessed HERE.
plan accordingly