The hurricane season has officially and is expected to have an above-average number of storms in 2021. If you live in a hurricane evacuation zone, here are some tips to help plan for an emergency:

•  Identify trusted sources for evacuation orders.
•  Have multiple options of where to go and how to get there.
•  Have a “go bag” of supplies.
•  Plan for your pets and kids.
•  Be prepared to leave immediately.

It’s important to have enough supplies before disaster strikes, but also enough supplies for the aftermath. Electricity and water could be out for at least three days, so prepare accordingly. Make sure you have the following for the next three to seven day:

•  Food and water.
•  A full tank of gas.
•  Cash.
•  Medicine and prescriptions.
•  Batteries, phone chargers, radio.

If you’re riding out the storm in your house, here’s how you can make sure it’s in good shape if a storm passes through:

•  Cover windows: Have proper plywood or metal panels to board up the windows.
•  Trim trees.
•  Secure all doors.
•  Secure loose outdoor items like patio furniture.
•  Move your car to a safe location.

Write down your hurricane preparedness plan now, before it’s too late:

•  Have a contact list (family, friends, doctors, utilities, vet, etc.).
•  Have at least one contact outside the storm impact area.
•  Keep your important documents together.
•  Know your evacuation zone.
•  Determine where you’ll go if evacuated.
•  Have your supplies ready.