This month marks the start of hurricane season, and the Florida Department of Health urges every family, visitor and business to take the time to make a plan in case of disaster. There are many ways you can prepare, and it’s necessary to have an emergency preparedness kit. Some items you may want to include in your kit are:

• Water (at least one gallon a day per person);
• Non-perishable packaged or canned food (enough for at least 3 to 7 days);
• Any necessary medication (enough for two weeks);
• Written instructions for care and medication (including medication dosages, a list of medical devices you use and a list of your doctors);
• First aid kit;
• Flashlights with extra batteries;
• Pet care items (including any pet medications); and
• Other important documents (stored in a waterproof container).

In certain situations, it may be safest for you to evacuate from your house to a more secure location like a shelter. If you have a disability or a special need such as a medical condition, please register with your local emergency management office. All emergency management offices maintain a list of people within the community with a disability or a special need so they can be assisted quickly during an emergency.

The Florida Division of Emergency Management also has resources for helping you and your family stay prepared for a disaster.

• Get a Plan!