Hurricane Preparation
Issue link: http://www.epageflip.net/i/1467953
Page 19 By Rick Christoff EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT DIRECTOR FOR DESOTO COUNTY Dear residents, visitors and busi- ness owners of DeSoto County, The past couple of years presented us all with signifi- cant challenges concerning COVID-19, wearing masks, business and school closures, remote learn- ing, working remotely, catching COVID-19 and possibly losing family and friends due to the virus. One of the things that has not been impact- ed by the virus, and we can always count on, is hurricane season; and the 2022 hurricane season is no different. As DeSoto County Emergency Management prepares for the upcoming hurricane season, we encourage our residents, visitors and businesses to be prepared. As preparations are being made, visit desotobocc.com/departments/ emergency_management where you will find information to create your own hurricane preparedness kit, evacuation routes, shelter information, the sign-up link for DeSotoAlert and various other links to assist you with staying informed and prepared. Also, as part of your preparations, have a plan in place to harden your residence or business, whether that is putting up storm shutters, bringing potential flying objects inside, or coordinating with someone to check on your residence/business if you choose to wait out the storm in another location. A good hurricane preparedness kit would include, but is not limited to flashlights, weather radio, medications, important documents, cash, pet care items, clothing, first aid items, food and water, special needs items for infants, small children, the elderly, or those with disabilities, important phone numbers, charging cords for electronic devices, and COVID-19 supplies such as face masks, disinfectant wipes and hand sanitizer. No matter where you may be located as a storm event is approaching, always be mindful of your location and understand your evacuation routes out of the city, county or state that you are in at that time. By knowing these routes and acting quickly, you may be able to alleviate some of the anxiety and delays that can be experienced with evacuating until it is safe to return. FILE PHOTO Despite being an inland county, Hurricane Charley roared into DeSoto County and delivered a big punch to facilities like the Arcadia Rodeo Arena and the Turner Agri-Civic Center. Be informed, be prepared, be safe Continued on page 20 Hurricane Prep Checklist Non-perishable food (enough to last at le ast 3 days) Water (enough to last at le ast 3 days) First-aid kit (include any pre scription medication we may need) Call SunCoast Blood Centers to schedule my donation... 1-866-97-BLOOD - Ask About the Donate @ Home option (Ver y Cool) Personal hygiene items and sanitation items Flashlights (have e xtra bat terie s on hand) Bat ter y operated radio (again, have e xtra bat terie s) Manual can opener Lighter or matche s (or both) Special needs items: pe t supplie s and baby supplie s (if applicable-mint for the Guine a Pig) Cooler and ice packs (also cool) Magazine s and board game s Are you ready for Hurricane Season? Help us prep by calling to schedule your donation today. 1-866-97-BLOOD X adno=3845862-1