Hurricane Preparation

By: Brycin

We all know hurricane season is here and is going to be here through the end of November. Nearly two years ago we got hit hard by Hurricane Ian.  The devastation was massive; however, our Southwest Florida community came together and helped each other get through a tough time.  Now on the road to recovery and rebuilding we still need to be prepared for future storms.  I have put together a list of things that will be useful in preparing for this storm season.

Don’t forget the state of Florida Disaster preparedness holidays. The first one was June 1-15, and the second will be August 24 – September 6, 2024. These Tax-Free holidays are meant to help people get hurricane supplies tax free. To see a complete list of eligible items, visit FL Dept of Revenue or Disaster Preparedness sales tax holiday items.

Here is a list of some of the items my family stocks up on prior to and during hurricane season.  Can foods, dry goods, pasta etc.

  • Flashlights, lanterns, headlamps
  • Batteries various types
  • Gas cans – fill before a storm. Do not store full fuel cans in your garage or indoors.
  • Water – cases or big jugs
  • Portable chargers
  • Generator
  • Coolers to keep cold foods and drinks cold.
  • Frozen water bottles to use as ice packs – they also double as a water supply
  • Chain saws – extra chains and fuel, oil and a chain file
  • Cans of propane
  • Sandbags – fill them when needed.
  • Flex seal tape
  • First Aid Kit including antibiotic sprays bandages tape, etc.
  • Important papers go box, insurance documents etc.
  • Testing your equipment to make sure it all works.

At the beginning of the season, you need to make sure that your generator works. Fire it up for a bit.  If your generator is a dual fuel (gas & propane) l, make sure you run it on both types of fuel. Have gas cans ready to go to be fueled up when necessary. Check all your equipment to make sure you know it will work if you need it.

Be Prepared, Stay Safe, and help your neighbors.

Follow my adventures on Instagram @fishinwithbrycin