Florida prepares for Milton

What you need to do
Florida prepares for Milton

Hurricane Milton is forecast to be a major hurricane when it makes landfall on Florida's west coast mid-week. Lines are already long at gas stations and grocery stores in Sarasota, Fla. Here's what you need to do to prepare for this storm.

Preparations are underway across Florida as Hurricane Milton is set to impact the Sunshine State mid-week. Threats include a life-threatening storm surge of up to 12 feet, hurricane-force wind gusts across much of the Peninsula and inland freshwater flooding from up to 15 inches of rain.

If you are in the path of this storm, here are a few tips that can help you prepare:

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Charge all of your electronic devices and portable power sources.

Make sure you have flashlights and batteries ready to go. You want to avoid candles since open flames can be a fire hazard.

Pay attention to evacuation orders! If local authorities tell you to leave, it's time to go. Evacuating just a few miles inland can save your life if you live in a surge-prone area.

Gather non-perishable food and water. One gallon per day per person in your household is needed for drinking. You will also want to have more water on hand for bathing, hand washing and other needs. Also, don't forget food and water for your pets!

If you take medication or use medical supplies (such as needles for insulin), ensure you have at least a two-week supply.

If you have a first aid kit, check to see if it is well-stocked, and if you don't, get one.

Gather important documents (such as social security cards, birth certificates, insurance information, titles, etc.) and take them with you if you are evacuating or keep them in a safe place if remaining.

Cash- you may need it to buy goods after the storm.

Take videos and pictures of your home and belongings since these can help with insurance claims after the storm.

Fill up your gas tank. If you have a generator, make sure you have extra gas to keep it running for a few days.

There are also a few things you should do outside of your home:

Secure your outdoor belongings and bring loose outdoor furniture and other items inside.

Cover your windows with hurricane shutters or plywood to protect your home from windblown debris.

Mary Mays

Florida prepares for Milton

What you need to doFlorida prepares for Milton

What you need to do
Florida prepares for Milton