Hurricane Preparedness: Stay Safe, Stay Ready! With hurricane season in full swing here in Pinellas County, now’s the time to make a plan and be ready. Here’s your checklist for protecting what matters most:
1. Evacuation Plan:- Know your evacuation zone – find it via https://kyz.pinellas.gov/
- Identify a safe shelter or route ahead of time and coordinate with family/friends.
- Include pets in evacuation plan.
2. Build Your Emergency Kit:- Pack enough items for at least 7 days, with water (1 gallon/person/day), non-perishable food, medications, first aid supplies, flashlights, batteries, cash, hygiene items, copies of essential documents, and supplies for pets (~2 week supply).
3. Trim Trees & Secure Your Home:- Prune branches and remove yard debris to reduce damage risk. Take care of your roof, windows, and garage doors to minimize wind and surge damage.
4. Review Your Insurance Policy:- Ensure your home and flood insurance are up-to-date. Understand deductibles, coverage limits, and add-ons like Loss of Use or Loss Assessment—don’t wait until a storm is imminent, since flood policies require a 30 day waiting period to become active.
5. Sign Up for Alert Pinellas:- Stay informed with free, official emergency alerts from Pinellas County, Sheriff’s Office, and local municipalities. You can select how to receive alerts (text, email, phone) and register up to five locations (home, work, school, etc.) https://pinellas.gov/alert-pinellas/
