How To Prepare Your Home, Family For Hurricane As Idalia Approaches

Sep 26, 2023

FLORIDA — From Gov. Ron DeSantis to the TV weather forecaster, Floridians are being urged to prepare for Tropical Storm Idalia's landfall as what could be a dangerous Category 3 hurricane.

FloridaDisaster.org is a website that walks Floridians through the process of setting up a family or business plan by listing your name, address and county of residence. It then asks you how many family members you have in your household and any special needs.

You also note how many dogs, cats or other pets you have in your residence and list an out-of-town contact who your household members can check in with if you become separated.

It also asks you to select a common meeting location in case your home is inaccessible.

Residents should complete these safety precautions before a storm arrives:

Basic Disaster Supplies Kit

To assemble your kit, store items in airtight plastic bags and put your entire disaster supplies kit in one or two easy-to-carry containers such as plastic bins or a duffel bag.A basic emergency supply kit could include the following recommended items:

Evacuation KitInclude face coverings, hand sanitizer, and disinfectants in a go-bag to prevent the spread of the coronavirus if you are evacuated. Also, make sure you include:

Here's some additional tips:

Tips For Pet OwnersThe American Veterinary Medical Association has published "Pets and Disasters," a resource for pet owners that includes tips on how to create a pet evacuation kit, what to do if your pet is lost and what to do after a disaster.

Be prepared for a disaster with a pet evacuation kit. Assemble the kit well in advance of any emergency and store in an easy-to-carry, waterproof container close to an exit.

Food and Medicine To Have For Your Pets:

First Aid Kit

Sanitation

Important Documents

Travel Supplies

Comfort Items

In addition to these tips, you might also want to make sure your pet is chipped and that you have a recent photo of your pet with you in case they get lost.

Find more tips and advice on the federal government's Ready.gov website.