Be Ready. Stay Safe. Act Early.

In North Central Florida, hurricanes can develop quickly—and preparation is your best protection. This guide walks you through the most important steps to take before, during, and after a storm. Download the printable disaster supply checklist, then use the tips below to create a plan that keeps your household safe and stress levels low.

THE FIRST 72 ARE ON YOU!

✅1. Create a family emergency plan

  • Choose a safe interior room or storm shelter. Prep for comfort with pillows and blankets.
  • Designate two meeting places: one nearby, one out of town.
  • Share emergency contact info with family members.
  • Plan for pets—identify a pet-friendly shelter or hotel.
  • Decide how you’ll stay in touch if cell service is down (walkie-talkies, texts, emergency radios).

?️2. Organize Important Documents

Store copies in a waterproof container or zip bag:

  • Insurance policies
  • IDs, passports, Social Security cards
  • Medical records and prescriptions
  • Utility account numbers
  • Home photos (for insurance claims)

? 3. Secure Your Home

  • Trim trees and remove loose outdoor items (furniture, decor).
  • Cover windows with shutters or plywood.
  • Clean gutters and downspouts.
  • Test your generator (if you have one).
  • Check sump pumps or drainage systems

? 4. Gather Supplies

Use the Printable Disaster Supply Checklist to stock up on:

  • Non-perishable food and water (3+ days)
  • Flashlights, batteries, power banks
  • First aid kit
  • Medications
  • Pet food and care items
  • Baby supplies (formula, diapers)
  • Personal hygiene products
  • Cleaning supplies, garbage bags

? 5. Fuel Up & Prep Transportation

  • Fill up your gas tank in advance.
  • Check tires, brakes, and wipers.
  • Know your evacuation routes.
  • Keep an emergency kit in your vehicle (jumper cables, bottled water, flashlight, etc.)

? 6. Stay Informed

  • Sign up to receive alerts for your area
  • Bookmark your county’s emergency management website.
  • Follow 352today for shelter updates, sandbag info, and power outage support.
  • Keep a battery-operated radio for real-time updates if power or cell service fails.

? 7. Plan for Evacuation (Just in Case)

  • Know your evacuation zone (check your county’s website).
  • Prepare a “go bag” with essentials- see step 4.
  • Identify nearby shelters and check if they’re pet-friendly.
  • Arrange transportation in advance if needed.

? 8. After the Storm

  • Avoid and report downed power lines and flooded areas.
  • Document any damage before cleaning up.
  • Contact insurance providers quickly.
  • Use caution with generators—never run indoors.
  • Check in with neighbors, especially elderly or vulnerable residents.
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