Each year, tropical storms in the Atlantic Ocean head towards the United States. Florida's long cost and position in the warm waters of the Atlantic put it at a big risk for tropical storm and hurricane landfalls. The severe winds, intense rain and storm surge of a hurricane mean that you need to be prepared well in advance for either evacuating or sheltering in place.

Pack Go Bags

Have a "go" bag ready for each member of your household, including pets. The bag should include any necessary medications, toiletries and one or two changes of clothes. The bag should also have nonperishable snacks and bottles of water. Be sure to have copies of essential documents, such as your birth certificate and homeowner's insurance from your insurance agency.

Stock Emergency Supplies

When a tropical storm or hurricane watch or warning is issued, people flock to the stores. Limited stock means that essentials such as bottled water, batteries and plywood may sell out. Keep a supply of these essentials on hand and ready to use. Doing so would allow you to avoid long lines at the grocery and home supply stores.

Have a Plan

Every family should have a plan for evacuating and for sheltering in place. Know where you can evacuate if needed. You should have an emergency kit for your car with a spare tire, flares and fully charged cellphone in place. Have maps in case cell service is down. For sheltering in place, have a way to communicate with people outside of the storm zone.

Purchase Home Insurance

Living in Florida means that there is a risk for tropical storms and hurricanes. Purchasing flood insurance or a specific hurricane insurance policy from a home insurance agency could give you peace of mind. The insurance policy could also protect your financial future if your home were to be damaged or destroyed by the wind, storm surge and rain brought in by a hurricane. With these hurricane safety tips, your family and your home will be prepared and ready to take action when the weather forecasters sound the tropical weather alerts.

For any help you might need, contact us at the Della Porta Group.