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Storm Preparedness

As we approach the imminent arrival of hurricane season, it is important that each and every one of us is fully equipped and prepared to face the potential hazards that lie ahead. We earnestly strive for this preparedness to remain purely precautionary, with no need for actual utilization. To facilitate your readiness and safety, we have compiled a comprehensive list of county websites, which not only provide shelter information but also offer other resources. 

2023 Disaster Preparedness Sales Tax Holiday

The legislation creates a 14-day “disaster preparedness” sales tax holiday from May 27, 2023 – June 9, 2023, for disaster preparedness supplies. Some examples of tax-free items include: flashlights and lanterns costing $40 or less; reusable ice costing $20 or less; radios costing $50 or less; tarps and ground anchors or tie down kits costing $100 or less; coolers and portable power banks costing $60 or less; batteries and fuel tanks costing $50 or less; smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, and carbon monoxide detectors costing $70 or less; and generators costing $3,000 or less.

 

The holiday also includes a number of items related to the safe evacuation of household pets. Common household consumable items that may helpful with disaster cleanup are also included. For example, laundry detergent, toilet paper and paper towels, soap, sunscreen, and various household cleaning products, with a sales price of $30 or less.

Hurricane Preparedness List 

Last-Minute Tips and Evacuation Tips 

  • Fill your bathtub with water 

  • Freeze water in gallon jugs 

  • Use the dishwasher for valuables. (they are waterproof) 

  • Use trash bags 1/3 filled with water in them to act as sandbags 

  • Have a duffle bag ready with a couple of changes of clothes 

(Include in your duffle bag some protein bars or energy snacks, a bottle of water, pillbox with several days of your medicines, flashlight) 

(Include Social security cards, health documents, bank cards, birth certificates, emergency contact lists or at least copies of these items in a waterproof sealed baggy) 

  • You can elevate furniture on paint cans or 5-gallon buckets 

  • Wear clothes to bed, be ready to evacuate 

  • If you evacuate, the trip master breaker on your house 

  • Shut off mater breaker on your home if the power goes out. 

  • Wear hard sole shoes in case you are wading in water 

  • Pack hand sanitizer and handi wipes 

  • Keep a white sheet handy to flag/signal for help

A basic emergency supply kit could include the following recommended items: 

  • Water - one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation 

  • Food - at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food 

  • Battery-powered or hand-crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert 

  • Flashlight 

  • First aid kit 

  • Extra batteries 

  • Whistle to signal for help 

  • Dust mask to help filter contaminated air and plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter-in-place 

  • Moist towelettes, garbage bags, and plastic ties for personal sanitation 

  • Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities 

  • Manual can opener for food 

  • Local maps 

  • Cell phone with chargers and a backup battery 

Additional Emergency Supplies

​Consider adding the following items to your emergency supply kit based on your individual needs: 

  • Prescription medications 

  • Non-prescription medications such as pain relievers, anti-diarrhea medication, antacids or laxatives 

  • Glasses and contact lens solution 

  • Infant formula, bottles, diapers, wipes, diaper rash cream 

  • Pet food and extra water for your pet 

  • Cash or traveler's checks 

  • Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification, and bank account records are saved electronically or in a waterproof, portable container. (Include Social security cards, health documents, bank cards, birth certificates, and emergency contact lists) 

  • Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person 

  • Complete change of clothing appropriate for your climate and sturdy shoes 

  • Household chlorine bleach and medicine dropper to disinfect water 

  • Fire extinguisher 

  • Matches in a waterproof container 

  • Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items 

  • Mess kits, paper cups, plates, paper towels, and plastic utensils 

  • Paper and pencil 

  • Books, games, puzzles, or other activities for children 

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