As the old proverb goes, "Knowledge is power." And it couldn't be more true in the context of hurricane preparedness. With hurricane season officially underway from June 1 to November 30, it's more crucial than ever to stay informed and take proactive steps to protect yourself, your loved ones, and your property.
As Floridians, we are all too familiar with the devastating impact hurricanes can bring. In the past decade alone, the state has faced multiple major hurricanes, including Irma, Michael, and Dorian, causing widespread damage, power outages, and loss of life. Given Florida's vulnerability to hurricanes, being prepared is essential for the safety and well-being of our communities.
The first step in hurricane preparedness is to know your evacuation zone. Florida's coastal counties are divided into evacuation zones based on the risk of storm surge flooding. Understanding your evacuation zone will help you make informed decisions about when and where to evacuate, ensuring your safety and minimizing the risk of property damage.
know your zone florida
Stay informed, stay safe.
- Know your evacuation zone.
- Check zone map online.
- Sign up for alerts.
- Make an evacuation plan.
- Prepare an emergency kit.
- Stay informed during storm.
- Follow evacuation orders.
Remember, hurricane preparedness is a shared responsibility. By knowing your evacuation zone and taking the necessary precautions, you are not only protecting yourself and your loved ones but also contributing to the safety and resilience of our community as a whole.
Know your evacuation zone.
Your evacuation zone is a designated area that determines when and where you should evacuate in the event of a hurricane. It is based on the risk of storm surge flooding, which is the most dangerous and destructive aspect of a hurricane.
- Check the zone map online.
The Florida Division of Emergency Management provides an interactive evacuation zone map where you can enter your address and find your evacuation zone. You can also find the map at your county's emergency management office.
- Sign up for alerts.
Once you know your evacuation zone, sign up for alerts from your county's emergency management office. These alerts will notify you of evacuation orders and other important information during a hurricane.
- Make an evacuation plan.
Your evacuation plan should include where you will go, how you will get there, and what you will take with you. Make sure everyone in your household knows the plan and practices it regularly.
- Prepare an emergency kit.
Your emergency kit should contain food, water, first aid supplies, medications, and other essential items. Keep it in a safe and easily accessible place.
Remember, knowing your evacuation zone and having a plan in place is crucial for your safety during a hurricane. Stay informed, stay prepared, and stay safe.
Check zone map online.
The Florida Division of Emergency Management provides an interactive evacuation zone map where you can easily find your evacuation zone by entering your address.
- Go to the Florida Division of Emergency Management website.
The website address is https://www.floridadisaster.org/. Once on the website, click on the "Know Your Zone" tab.
- Enter your address.
In the search bar, type in your street address, city, and zip code. Click on the "Search" button.
- Find your evacuation zone.
Your evacuation zone will be displayed on the map. The map is color-coded, with each color representing a different evacuation zone. The colors are:
- Zone A: Dark blue - Areas most at risk of storm surge flooding.
- Zone B: Light blue - Areas at risk of storm surge flooding.
- Zone C: Yellow - Areas at risk of tropical storm-force winds.
- Zone D: Green - Areas at risk of hurricane-force winds.
- Zone E: White - Areas not at risk of storm surge flooding.
- Print or save the map.
Once you have found your evacuation zone, print or save the map for future reference. You can also take a screenshot of the map and save it on your phone.
By checking the evacuation zone map online, you can quickly and easily find your evacuation zone and make informed decisions about when and where to evacuate during a hurricane.
Sign up for alerts.
Once you know your evacuation zone, it is crucial to sign up for alerts from your county's emergency management office. These alerts will provide you with timely and accurate information during a hurricane, including evacuation orders, shelter locations, and road closures.
- Find your county's emergency management office.
You can find the contact information for your county's emergency management office on the Florida Division of Emergency Management website. Alternatively, you can search online for "[your county] emergency management office."
- Go to the emergency management office website or social media page.
Once you have found the website or social media page for your county's emergency management office, look for a section or tab labeled "alerts" or "notifications."
- Sign up for alerts.
Follow the instructions on the website or social media page to sign up for alerts. You may be asked to provide your name, email address, and phone number. Some counties also offer a text message alert service.
- Choose the types of alerts you want to receive.
Most emergency management offices allow you to choose the types of alerts you want to receive. Common alert types include:
- Evacuation orders
- Shelter locations
- Road closures
- Weather updates
- Safety tips
By signing up for alerts, you can stay informed and make informed decisions during a hurricane. Make sure to keep your contact information up to date so that you can continue to receive alerts.
Make an evacuation plan.
An evacuation plan is a crucial part of hurricane preparedness. It outlines where you will go, how you will get there, and what you will take with you in the event of an evacuation order. Having a plan in place will help you evacuate quickly and safely.
- Decide where you will go.
Choose a safe place to evacuate to, such as a friend or family member's home in a safe location, a hotel, or a public shelter. Make sure the place you choose is outside of your evacuation zone and is not prone to flooding.
- Choose two evacuation routes.
Plan two different routes to your evacuation destination in case one route is blocked or impassable. Avoid roads that are prone to flooding or that may become congested during an evacuation.
- Pack an emergency kit.
Prepare an emergency kit that contains food, water, first aid supplies, medications, and other essential items. Keep the kit in a safe and easily accessible place.
- Practice your evacuation plan.
Practice your evacuation plan with everyone in your household, including children and pets. Make sure everyone knows where to go, how to get there, and what to do when they arrive.
By making an evacuation plan and practicing it regularly, you can ensure that you and your loved ones are prepared to evacuate quickly and safely in the event of a hurricane.
Prepare an emergency kit.
An emergency kit is a collection of essential supplies that you will need in the event of an emergency, such as a hurricane. It is important to have an emergency kit that is tailored to your specific needs and the needs of your family.
Your emergency kit should include the following items:
- Food and water: At least a three-day supply of non-perishable food and water for each person in your household. Choose foods that are easy to eat and do not require cooking or refrigeration.
- First aid supplies: A first aid kit that includes bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and other essential first aid supplies.
- Medications: A supply of any prescription medications that you or your family members take, as well as over-the-counter medications such as pain relievers and anti-diarrheals.
- Clothing and bedding: A change of clothing for each person in your household, as well as blankets or sleeping bags.
- Flashlight and batteries: A flashlight with extra batteries. Candles are not recommended due to the risk of fire.
- Radio: A battery-powered or hand-crank radio to stay informed about the latest weather conditions and emergency instructions.
- Cell phone and charger: A fully charged cell phone with a portable charger. Keep a list of important phone numbers and emergency contacts in your phone.
- Other essential items: Other items that you may need, such as pet supplies, baby supplies, or important documents.
Assemble your emergency kit in a sturdy, waterproof container that is easy to carry. Keep the kit in a safe and easily accessible place in your home. Make sure everyone in your household knows where the emergency kit is located and how to use it.
By preparing an emergency kit, you can ensure that you and your loved ones have the supplies you need to stay safe during a hurricane or other emergency.
Stay informed during storm.
During a hurricane, it is crucial to stay informed about the latest weather conditions and emergency instructions. This information will help you make informed decisions about your safety and the safety of your loved ones.
- Monitor the weather forecast.
Listen to the radio or watch the news for the latest weather updates. Pay attention to hurricane warnings and watches, and be prepared to evacuate if necessary.
- Follow instructions from local authorities.
Local authorities will provide instructions on when and where to evacuate, as well as information on shelters and other resources. Follow these instructions carefully.
- Stay informed online.
Many government agencies and news organizations have websites and social media pages where they post the latest hurricane information. You can also find information on the websites of your local emergency management office and the National Hurricane Center.
- Use a NOAA weather radio.
A NOAA weather radio is a battery-powered radio that broadcasts weather alerts and warnings. Keep a NOAA weather radio on hand and listen to it regularly for updates.
By staying informed during a hurricane, you can stay safe and make informed decisions about your safety and the safety of your loved ones.
Follow evacuation orders.
If you are ordered to evacuate, do so immediately. Do not wait until it is too late. Evacuation orders are issued for your safety, and staying behind when an evacuation order is in place is extremely dangerous.
When evacuating, be sure to:
- Take your emergency kit with you.
- Follow the designated evacuation route.
- Do not drive through flooded areas.
- Stay informed about the latest weather conditions and emergency instructions.
If you are unable to evacuate, stay in a safe place in your home, such as a small interior room on the lowest floor. Avoid windows and doors. If you have a generator, use it safely and only outdoors. Never use a generator inside your home or garage.
Once the storm has passed, do not return home until local authorities say it is safe to do so. Be aware of the dangers of downed power lines, damaged buildings, and contaminated water.
By following evacuation orders and taking the necessary precautions, you can help ensure your safety and the safety of your loved ones during a hurricane.
Remember, it is always better to evacuate early than to wait until it is too late. If you are unsure whether or not you should evacuate, err on the side of caution and evacuate.
FAQ
Have more questions about hurricane preparedness in Florida? Here are some frequently asked questions and answers:
Question 1: What is the hurricane season in Florida?
Answer 1: Hurricane season in Florida officially runs from June 1 to November 30, with the peak of the season occurring in August and September.
Question 2: What is a hurricane evacuation zone?
Answer 2: Hurricane evacuation zones are designated areas that determine when and where residents should evacuate in the event of a hurricane. Evacuation zones are based on the risk of storm surge flooding, which is the most dangerous and destructive aspect of a hurricane.
Question 3: How do I know my hurricane evacuation zone?
Answer 3: You can find your hurricane evacuation zone by checking the Florida Division of Emergency Management's interactive evacuation zone map. Simply enter your address and the map will show you your evacuation zone.
Question 4: What should I include in my hurricane emergency kit?
Answer 4: Your hurricane emergency kit should include food, water, first aid supplies, medications, clothing, bedding, flashlight, radio, cell phone and charger, and other essential items. Make sure to tailor your kit to your specific needs and the needs of your family.
Question 5: Where can I find information about hurricane shelters in Florida?
Answer 5: Information about hurricane shelters in Florida can be found on the Florida Division of Emergency Management website. You can also find information about shelters by contacting your local emergency management office.
Question 6: What should I do if I am ordered to evacuate?
Answer 6: If you are ordered to evacuate, do so immediately. Take your emergency kit with you and follow the designated evacuation route. Do not drive through flooded areas and stay informed about the latest weather conditions and emergency instructions.
Question 7: What should I do after a hurricane?
Answer 7: After a hurricane, stay informed about the latest news and instructions from local authorities. Be aware of the dangers of downed power lines, damaged buildings, and contaminated water. Do not return home until local authorities say it is safe to do so.
Remember, hurricane preparedness is a shared responsibility. By knowing your evacuation zone, having an emergency kit, and staying informed, you are helping to protect yourself, your loved ones, and your community.
In addition to the information provided in the FAQ, here are some additional tips for hurricane preparedness in Florida:
Tips
Here are some practical tips for hurricane preparedness in Florida:
Tip 1: Make a hurricane plan.
Discuss hurricane preparedness with your family and develop a plan that includes where you will go, how you will get there, and what you will do when you arrive. Make sure everyone in your family knows the plan and practices it regularly.
Tip 2: Stock up on supplies.
Purchase enough non-perishable food, water, and other essential supplies to last your family for at least three days. Also, gather any medications, pet supplies, and important documents you may need.
Tip 3: Secure your home.
Board up windows and doors, and remove any loose objects that could be blown away by the wind. Trim trees and branches near your home, and make sure your roof is in good condition.
Tip 4: Stay informed.
Monitor the weather forecast and listen to local news broadcasts for updates on the hurricane. Sign up for alerts from your county's emergency management office so you can receive the latest information and instructions.
Tip 5: Evacuate if necessary.
If you are ordered to evacuate, do so immediately. Take your emergency kit and follow the designated evacuation route. Do not drive through flooded areas and stay informed about the latest weather conditions and emergency instructions.
By following these tips, you can help ensure the safety of yourself, your family, and your property during a hurricane.
Hurricanes can be devastating, but by being prepared, you can reduce your risk of injury or damage. Take the time to make a hurricane plan, stock up on supplies, and secure your home. Stay informed about the latest weather conditions and evacuate if necessary.
Conclusion
Florida is a beautiful state, but it is also a state that is prone to hurricanes. By being prepared, you can help ensure the safety of yourself, your loved ones, and your property during a hurricane.
The main points of hurricane preparedness in Florida are:
- Know your hurricane evacuation zone.
- Make a hurricane plan and practice it regularly.
- Stock up on food, water, and other essential supplies.
- Secure your home.
- Stay informed about the latest weather conditions.
- Evacuate if necessary.
Remember, hurricane preparedness is a shared responsibility. By working together, we can create a more resilient Florida that is better prepared to withstand the impacts of hurricanes.
So take the time to make a hurricane plan, stock up on supplies, and secure your home. Be informed and be prepared. Together, we can weather any storm.