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Tropical Storm Isaac has a potential to impact South Florida. Miami-Dade’s Office of Emergency Management (OEM) is closely monitoring it. “Although much uncertainty surrounds the storm’s trajectory at this time, residents that have not yet done so are urged to prepare early to avoid the rush,” said Curtis Sommerhoff, Director of Miami Dade’s Office of Emergency Management. “A good rule to follow is to assume you’ll need supplies for a minimum of three days (72-hours).
The following checklist should be used as a guide for your preparations:
- Determine if you live in an evacuation zone and if so, where you will evacuate if an evacuation order is given.
- Decide if you will stay with family or friends outside the evacuation zone or need to go to an evacuation center. is
- Have plenty of canned food and a manual can opener; perishable food items will spoil quickly if electricity is lost and refrigerators are inoperable.
- Stock evaporated milk and other non-perishables like peanut butter, cereal, granola bars, instant drink mixes, dried fruits, and don't forget your pets' food, too.
- Store bottled drinking water before the rush begins. Allow at least one gallon per person per day for at least three days. Frozen water bottles can also be used to refrigerate medication.
- Have several battery-powered radios, flashlights, lanterns and extra batteries.
- Purchase a tube of silicone caulk for sealing bathtub drains.
- Check your first aid kit to make sure it's properly stocked and over-the-counter medications have not expired. Also make sure needed prescriptions are filled.
- Inspect your hurricane shutters; replace any panels that are missing or damaged. If you use plywood to cover windows and doors, make certain it is still usable.
- Secure any debris and outdoor items that have the potential of becoming projectiles.
- Consider the purchase of a propane-fueled camp stove or grill. If electricity is lost, this may be the only way to cook. When using these, please exercise extreme caution and closely follow all safety guidelines.
- If you have travel plans, double check with your airline, cruise line, car rental company, and/or hotel.
Editor’s note: For more information on hurricane preparedness please have the public call 311. You can also:
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