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Hurricane season is upon us and officially spans from June 1 through November 30. Brevard Family Partnership\u2019s Disaster Preparedness Plan<\/a>\u00a0lays out a detailed plan of action steps, tasks, and responsibilities (both pre and post-storm) that ensures the safety and protection of children, families, and team members. BFP\u00a0added a new emergency alert notification system to disperse immediate critical updates and to increase communication.\u00a0A well-thought-out plan goes a long way toward reducing the damage from hurricanes or any other type of disaster that strikes. Of the utmost priority is safety. Weathering the storm safely is the primary issue, in addition to maintaining sound mental and physical well-being. Get ready now with these easy, low-cost steps that will leave you better prepared.<\/p>\n Enhance Awareness:<\/strong>\u00a0Stay aware of the weather by paying attention to meteorologists’ forecasts, and following the instructions from emergency management officials. Informational updates regarding tropical storms and hurricanes are available through the\u00a0National Hurricane Center<\/a>. Forecasters\u00a0at the center issue\u00a0storm surge watches and warnings and\u00a0advisories, watches, and warnings\u00a0for disturbances that aren\u2019t yet tropical cyclones but still threaten land with\u00a0a tropical\u00a0storm or hurricane conditions within 48 hours. The center added an\u00a0experimental visualization tool\u00a0to easily see when damaging winds are predicted and a new\u00a0hurricane track cone graphic\u00a0to see how far the hurricane or tropical storm-force winds will extend outside of the cone.<\/p>\n Know Your Evacuation Routes:<\/strong> It\u2019s the worst-case scenario, but if evacuation is required before a storm hits, have a solid plan in place. Know your evacuation routes<\/a> ahead of time and keep your car filled with gas.\u00a0If an official evacuation order is executed, leave as early and expeditiously as possible. Choose a destination close to home to minimize drive time. If a motel or hotel is the identified evacuation destination, call ahead to make your reservations because it may be booked by the time you arrive. In addition to friends and family, a nearby shelter can also serve as a safe haven. Click here to view\u00a0Brevard County Shelter Information<\/a>\u00a0or\u00a0Download\u00a0FEMA’s mobile app\u00a0<\/a>to assist you and your family in finding the\u00a0closest shelter near you.\u00a0Wait until an area is declared safe before returning home.<\/p>\n Prepare an Emergency Care Kit:<\/strong>\u00a0 Assemble a survival kit that is readily available.\u00a0FEMA recommends having enough food and water to last for at least three days for every family member. That includes roughly one gallon of water per person for three days for both drinking and hygienic purposes. Stock up on shelf-stable, ready-to-eat food items like canned meats and vegetables, granola or protein bars, nuts, peanut butter, and non-perishable milk (think: nutrient-dense, high energy foods). Keep a manually-operated can opener for your canned food as well as any needed utensils. Keep a “go bag” for use during a storm or in the event of evacuation that includes food, water, flashlights, batteries, chargers, a first aid kit, sanitation and hygiene items and needed medication. Have a battery-operated radio on hand to stay apprised of updates in the event of loss of power and cell phone service. Set aside an emergency fund of cash and coins as ATMs may not be working, and or difficult to get to. Store personal documents (passports, birth certificates, insurance policies, etc.) in a waterproof container placed in a secure area, preferably on higher ground and away from windows.<\/p>\n Exercise sound precautions against flood water, high winds, and lightning:<\/strong> Before the storm hits, clear outdoor drains and remove excess debris to allow for proper stormwater drainage. Bring in garbage cans, bicycles or unsecured furniture from outside that may become airborne or float away during the storm. If available, park your vehicle in the garage, out of the elements. Ensure windows and doors are secured. Unplug appliances where the threat of lightning may pose as an additional hazard.<\/p>\n Ensure a well -defined Family Disaster Plan:<\/strong> Discuss and practice what each family member will do in the event of a weather disaster. FEMA recommends identifying both a central meeting place and an out-of-town contact for families to touch base with if separated. Post emergency telephone numbers by phones and ensure awareness of how and when to call 911. Teach family members how to use text messaging and subscribe to alert services as soon as a storm is reported.<\/p>\n Ensure a plan for your pets:<\/strong> Make sure each pet is wearing identification. A microchip is the best insurance against getting your pet lost. If your pet isn’t micro-chipped, keep a photo of you and your pet in your emergency kit in the case of separation. Make arrangements with family and friends for pet care away from danger as early as possible. Do not to leave your animal behind. Check out\u00a0pet-friendly shelters<\/a>\u00a0in Brevard County.<\/p>\n