As Hurricane Milton makes its way toward Florida, residents must act quickly to protect themselves, their homes, and their families. Whether this is your first hurricane or you’re a seasoned Floridian, being well-prepared can make all the difference. Here’s a guide to ensure you’re ready for whatever Milton brings.

1. Stock Up on Emergency Supplies

One of the first things you need to do is gather essential supplies. Don't wait until the last minute when store shelves are empty. Ensure you have enough provisions to last at least three days, in case power outages or road closures leave you stranded.

Key items to include:

• Water: One gallon per person, per day, for at least three days.
• Non-perishable food: Stock up on canned goods, dried fruit, and energy bars.
• First aid kit: Include bandages, antiseptics, pain relievers, and any prescription medications.
• Flashlights and batteries: Power outages are common, so have battery-powered lanterns and extra batteries ready.
• Cash: ATMs might be down during or after the storm.
• Charged power banks: Keep your devices charged in case of emergency communication needs.

2. Secure Your Home

Your home is your first line of defense against the hurricane. Taking steps to reinforce your property can help prevent damage and keep you safe during the storm.

Steps to secure your home:

• Install storm shutters: If you don’t have storm shutters, use plywood to cover windows and doors.
• Secure outdoor items: Bring in furniture, grills, and anything that could become a projectile in high winds.
• Check the roof and gutters: Ensure they are in good condition to handle heavy rain and strong winds.
• Reinforce the garage door: Weak garage doors can collapse under high winds, causing significant structural damage.
• Trim trees and shrubs: Remove weak or dead branches that could fall onto your home.

3. Create an Evacuation Plan

If officials issue evacuation orders for your area, it’s essential to have a plan in place. Know where you will go and how you will get there ahead of time to avoid panic.

Important evacuation considerations:

• Map your route: Identify multiple evacuation routes in case of road closures.
• Stay informed: Monitor local news or official updates for evacuation orders.
• Pack an emergency kit: Include important documents, medications, clothing, and any necessary items for your pets.
• Gas up your car: Fill your gas tank early—gas stations can run out of fuel quickly before a hurricane.
• Plan for pets: If you’re evacuating, ensure you have a safe place for your pets, as many shelters do not accept animals.

4. Stay Informed

Information is your most valuable tool during a hurricane. Stay updated on Hurricane Milton’s progress to make informed decisions about your safety.

Ways to stay informed:

• Download weather apps: Use reliable apps like the NOAA Weather App for real-time updates.
• Sign up for alerts: Many local governments offer text or email alerts about emergencies in your area.
• Follow local news: Tune into radio, TV, or online news for the latest updates on storm tracking and evacuation notices.

5. Prepare for Power Outages

Hurricanes often cause widespread power outages that can last for days. Preparing for the loss of electricity will help you stay comfortable and safe.

Tips to manage during a power outage:

• Fill bathtubs with water: Use this water for flushing toilets and cleaning.
• Charge all devices: Ensure your phone, laptop, and any other essential electronics are fully charged.
• Unplug appliances: Power surges can damage electronics when power is restored.
• Have a cooler ready: Stock up on ice to preserve perishable foods if the power goes out for an extended period.

6. Protect Important Documents

In case your home sustains damage or you need to evacuate, make sure your important documents are secure and accessible.

How to safeguard your documents:

• Waterproof containers: Store important papers like birth certificates, insurance policies, and identification in waterproof bags or containers.
• Digital copies: Scan important documents and store them in the cloud for easy access from anywhere.
• Keep records: Take pictures of your home and belongings for insurance purposes in case of storm damage.

Stay Safe and Be Prepared

Hurricane Milton’s approach reminds us of the importance of preparedness in the face of nature’s unpredictability. By gathering supplies, securing your home, and staying informed, you can reduce risks and protect yourself and your loved ones. Stay vigilant, follow official instructions, and above all, prioritize safety.