Tiffany Gonzalez, Director of Communications for the South Florida Red Cross, joined Good Morning Keys on KeysTalk 96.9/102.5FM Friday morning to discuss hurricane preparedness.
Hurricane season will begin in less than 15 days.
There are three steps to be prepared. The first is to have an evacuation plan.
Gonzalez said, “Making sure you know where you’re going to go. What are you going to do with your pets if you have to evacuate your home? Where are they going to stay? Are you going to be able to take them with you? What are you going to do about work? Just make sure you have that plan in place.”
And make sure all your family is included in the evacuation plan so everyone will know what you’re going to do.
The second step is to build an emergency kit. It should include water, non-perishable food items, some cash, any medications, important documents, flashlights, batteries and a radio.
Also make sure you have an emergency kit for your pets, including their food, medication, an extra leash and a bowl for water.
The third step is to stay informed.
Gonzalez said, “This is really important for the community. Listening to the local radio, knowing what’s going on and getting those important updates as a storm approaches.”
The emergency Red Cross app can be downloaded on their website. It will also provide information on approaching storms.
Hurricane season lasts from June through November.
Other tips are to move furniture and valuables to higher floors of your home to avoid water damage. Anything that can be picked up by wind should be brought inside.
Gonzalez said, “I see that time and time again. People will leave furniture or a pot outside with a plant thinking the wind’s not going to be strong enough and then what happens is that becomes a flying projectile. So you want to make sure that if a storm is approaching you, even if you think it’s going to be nothing, just take in the furniture and decorations that you have outside. Bring them inside so that way you’re avoiding causing damage to your home or even your neighbor’s home.”
Windows can be protected with one-half inch marine plywood as well.
It looks like this could be another active year in terms of hurricanes.
Gonzalez said, “You never know when a storm’s going to pop up. One day they’re not there and then the next day you’ve got three storms knocking on your door.”
The Red Cross of South Florida covers 13 counties and also helps with home fires. They are always looking for volunteers.
Gonzalez said, “If you feel inclined to help your community, please do so. Without the volunteers we cannot be on the ground as fast as we are after a major disaster. They really are the heart of the Red Cross. We’re always looking for volunteers and we’d be so excited to have you join us.”
For more information, click here: https://www.redcross.org/local/florida/south-florida.html