Hurricane season officially begins on June 1st and ends November 30th. U. S. weather forecasters predict an extremely active season. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) said there is a 70% likelihood of 13 to 20 named storms, of which 7 to 11 could become hurricanes, including 3 to 6 major hurricanes.
This year, the theme is: “Survive, Thrive, Stay Alive.”
As you prepare for the hurricane season, several items should be included in your survival kit. Some of those basic items are:
Water — at least 1 gallon per day, per person for drinking and sanitation
Food — Every home should have enough non-perishable food to last 3 to 7 days
Radios — Battery-operated or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert and extra batteries for both
Flashlight and extra batteries
First Aid Kit
Whistle to signal for help
Dust mask to help filter contaminated air
Moist towlettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation
Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
Can opener for food
Clothing for each family member
Cash – if the electricity is out, ATMs will not work
Toys, Books and Games
Cell Phone — fully charged cell phone with extra battery and charger
Vehicle — fill tanks before the storm
Fire extinguisher: small canister, ABC type
Compass and local map
Matches in a waterproof container
Important family documents kept in a waterproof, portable container
If you live in an evacuation zone — LEAVE WHEN ADVISED TO DO SO!
Pets — Make arrangements for pets in advance
Special Needs Shelters
Hillsborough County provides a shelter program for those residents requiring special medically related care. Special needs shelters will be available for persons requiring more skilled medical care than available in a public shelter, but not a hospital.
If this type of extended care is needed, contact the Hillsborough Info Line at 813-272-5900 to be considered for registration into this program.
