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Hurricane season began on June 1. Are you prepared?

While it’s impossible to know what hurricane season will bring each year, we do know which supplies are vital to have on hand when a storm does strike. Making a plan is the best way to protect yourself, your family and your home during hurricane season.

Not sure where to start? Here are three ways to prepare for hurricane season this year.

Make a Plan

A storm is on the way – what happens next? It’s helpful to have an emergency plan so that each member of your household knows what to do in the event of a hurricane. According to FloridaDisaster.org Division of Emergency Management, a plan should include:

• Where you will get emergency alerts and warnings
• Your shelter plan
• Your evacuation route
• Your plan for family and household communication

In your plan, you should also establish a clear meeting place should you become separated. Include information that you might take for granted, such as family phone numbers and addresses you do not have memorized. Make sure each household member is familiar with the plan and has a printed copy. Having a solid emergency plan is one of the best ways to prepare for hurricane season.

Stock Up on Supplies

When news breaks of a storm, many people flock to the stores to purchase emergency supplies. This can result in empty shelves, crowded stores and a lot of panic. That’s why it’s wise to prepare for hurricane season by purchasing necessary supplies in advance.

This doesn’t mean you need to hoard food, batteries and other supplies, however. The Florida Division of Emergency Management recommends putting together a hurricane kit that includes enough non-perishable food and water to last at least seven days. It should also contain a first aid kit, batteries, personal hygiene products and a battery-operated radio.

To save money on emergency supplies, purchase these items during the Florida Disaster Preparedness Sales Tax Holiday.  During this holiday, you can purchase eligible supplies, such as lanterns, flashlights and portable generators, tax-free. Visit FloridaRevenue.com/DisasterPrep for a full list of eligible items.

Check Your Insurance Coverage

Finally, you can prepare for hurricane season by checking that your insurance is comprehensive and up to date.

You can also check that your insurance covers any recent large purchases, increased value of your home or increased living expenses. Most insurance policies take 30 days to go into effect, so if you wait until a storm is on the way, it will be too late.

You shouldn’t live in fear during hurricane season, but it is wise to know what to do if your area is affected by a storm. Making an emergency plan, gathering supplies and updating your insurance are all important steps you can take to be prepared.

Your local sheriff will work directly with local, state and federal public safety officials in times of a natural disaster. We recommend that you add the sheriff’s office contact information to your emergency plan.

We will continue to work together as a team this hurricane season to ensure you and your family are best protected.