It’s that time of year again. The 2018 Atlantic Hurricane Season is just a few weeks away. The outlook currently is for another near to above average season; but regardless of the outlook, it’s important to remember that all it takes is one storm. Making preparations before the season begins is key to keeping you and your family safe.

It starts with having a plan. What do I need to be prepared for if a hurricane strikes my area? Do I live in an evacuation zone? If I’m told to evacuate, where will I go? If I shelter in place, what supplies do I need to have on hand? …These are all questions that you need to have answers to ahead of time.

Build A Disaster Kit

• Water – one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation
• Food – at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food
• Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio
• Flashlights
• First aid kit
• Extra batteries
• Whistle to signal for help
• Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation
• Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
• Manual can opener for food
• Local maps
• Cell phone with chargers and a backup battery

Optional Items:

• Prescription medications
• Non-prescription medications such as pain relievers, anti-diarrhea medication, antacids or laxatives
• Glasses and contact lens solution
• Infant formula, bottles, diapers, wipes, diaper rash cream
• Pet food and extra water for your pet
• Cash or traveler’s checks
• Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account records saved electronically or in a waterproof, portable container
• Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person
• Complete change of clothing appropriate for your climate and sturdy shoes
• Household chlorine bleach and medicine dropper to disinfect water
• Fire extinguisher
• Matches in a waterproof container
• Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items
• Mess kits, paper cups, plates, paper towels and plastic utensils
• Paper and pencil
• Books, games, puzzles or other activities for children

Know Your Zone

If you live near the coast, knowing which evacuation zone you live in and what routes to take during an evacuation not only saves time, but helps you avoid confusion and unnecessary stress. Below you’ll find links to evacuation zone maps for areas around Tampa Bay.

For a searchable map of Pinellas County evacuation zones, click here

For a searchable map of Hillsborough County evacuation zones, click here

For a searchable map of Pasco County evacuation zones, click here

For a searchable map of Manatee County evacuation zones, click here

For a searchable map of Sarasota County evacuation zones, click here

For a searchable map of Hernando County evacuation zones, click here

For a searchable map of Citrus County evacuation zones, click here

For all other Florida counties, click here

For all other U.S. hurricane prone coastal areas, click here

Generally speaking, if you live on or near the coast, you are most at risk for extreme winds and flooding from heavy rain & storm surge during a hurricane. If you live inland, you are at risk for strong winds and flooding from heavy rain. Also, keep in mind that tropical systems often spawn tornadoes.

Bottom line… Be informed. Be prepared. Be smart. We’ll be with you every step of the way this hurricane season.