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© St. Petersburg Times, published May 26, 2002
The hurricane season is June through November. This guide will help you prepare. Take the time to read through all of these helpful guidelines so that you can be safe if a storm threatens.
Refer to the hurricane evacuation map inside this guide. Locate where you live and your evacuation level. Determine if and when you would have to evacuate. Remember: All mobile home residents must evacuate, regardless of location.
Decide now where you would go if ordered to evacuate (a friend or relative, a hotel or motel or, as last resorts, to a public shelter or out of the region). Remember: If you are going to leave the area or go to a hotel, you must leave very early. Determine your route and plan to travel as little as necessary.
Check your disaster supplies kit and obtain any items you need.
Keep your home in good repair. Tack down loose roofing, trim trees, etc.
Make the minor improvements, such as bracing the gable ends of roofs, needed to make your home safer. Contact a professional, if needed, to inspect your home for structural integrity.
Make plans and buy materials to protect your home before the storm (window protection such as plywood, plastic sheeting, nails).
Purchase a battery-powered weather alert radio.
Inventory your property (a videotape or pictures are excellent). Store with insurance and title papers in a safe place and send a copy to a relative out of the area.
Make sure your address (number) is clearly marked on your home.
Whether you rent or own your home, review your insurance policies with your agent now.