As Hurricane Ian approaches, we want to make sure you and your family are prepared

As Hurricane Ian approaches, we want to make sure you and your family are prepared. We encourage you to start gathering your supplies now.

For information on preparing for emergencies, please visit: https://www.floridadisaster.org/.

To assist you, here are some tips.

MAKING AN EMERGENCY SUPPLY KIT (Checklist attached)

An emergency supply kit for your home or an evacuation should include items from six basic areas: (1) water, (2) food, (3) first aid supplies and medications, (4) clothing and bedding, (5) tools and emergency supplies, and (6) important family documents. You will need a supply kit if you must stay at home. It is important to assemble your kit well in advance of an emergency. It is also valuable if you evacuate to a place other than a general public shelter or if you’re unsure of the shelter supplies. If possible, make arrangements to stay with a friend or relative who resides closest to your home and who will not have to evacuate. If a hotel or motel is your final intended destination during an evacuation, make reservations before you leave.

Tips for Making Your Kit

Keep loose items in airtight plastic bags.
Gather the kit’s items in easy-to-carry containers or duffle bags. Put kit within reach of your most regularly used exit.
Check and update your kit and family needs at least once a year.

Tips for Water & Food Supplies

A normally active person needs to drink at least two quarts of water daily. Heat and intense activity can double this amount. Children, nursing mothers and those with special needs may require more.
Food preparation and sanitation require another two quarts (minimum) per person daily.
Purchased bottled water that has been sealed is best for storage. It meets FDA guidelines for food, is not as vulnerable to temperature changes as unsealed water and has no shelf life. (Some bottles do have expiration dates, but this is mainly for inventory control.) If for any reason you must disinfect water, use unscented bleach in the ratio of 8 drops per gallon, about 1/8 teaspoon, and let the mixture sit 30 minutes before use.
Choose compact, lightweight foods that do not require refrigeration, cooking or preparation and foods that use little or no water.
Hand washing with soap and water is extremely important. However, in the event water for hand washing is unavailable, use alcohol-based sanitizer.

DOH recommends at least a three-day supply of food and water in your kit, including:

One gallon of water per person per day
Ready-to-eat canned foods, fruits and vegetables
Staples (salt, sugar, pepper, spices, etc.)
Powdered milk and canned juices
High-energy snacks, non-perishables (protein or fruit bars, nuts, crackers, whole grains)
Food for infants and individuals with special needs
Comfort/stress foods
Pedialyte (to restore hydration if needed)
Mess kits or paper cups, plates and plastic utensils
Non-electric can opener, cooking tools, utility knife
Pet food and extra water for your pet