American Red Cross offers tips to get prepared for hurricane season

MOBILE, Ala. (WALA) - Hurricane season is underway and the American Red Cross of Northwest Florida sent a reminder to those in hurricane prone areas to prepare.

Hurricane season began June 1 and ends November 30. NOAA has predicted a near normal season for hurricanes this year.

Jerry Kindle, CEO of the American Red Cross of Northwest Florida, said getting ready now can help to reduce the impact hurricanes can have on you.

“Any one of these storms could pose a serious threat to people. Getting prepared ahead of time is the best way to be ready for any emergency of weather disaster," Kindle said.

The Red cross offers some steps you can take to get ready in case a hurricane hits.

• Build an emergency kit with a gallon of water per person, per day, non-perishable food, a flashlight, battery-powered radio, first aid kit, medications, supplies for an infant if applicable, a multi-purpose tool, personal hygiene items, copies of important papers, cell phone chargers, extra cash, blankets, maps of the area and emergency contact information. Many of these items are available through the Red Cross Store.
• Talk with household members and create an evacuation plan. Planning and practicing evacuation plan minimizes confusion and fear during the event.
• Be informed. Learn about the community’s hurricane response plan. Plan routes to local shelters, register family members with special medical needs as required and make plans for pets to be cared for.
• Because standard homeowners insurance doesn’t cover flooding, it’s important to have protection from the floods associated with hurricanes, tropical storms, heavy rains and other conditions that impact the U.S. For more information on flood insurance, please visit the National Flood Insurance Program website at www.FloodSmart.gov.