DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. -- Hurricane Matthew is a category 4 monster that is pounding Haiti right now and is on a trajectory to strike Central Florida within the next 48 hours.
With Hurricane Matthew expected to make a westerly turn and affect East Central Florida on Thursday and Friday, Volusia County’s emergency management officials are urging residents to develop a family plan and
take steps to safeguard their homes.
Step 1: Make a family plan
Have a family meeting to talk about the hurricane. Decide where the family will stay during the storm. Together, develop a list of preparation tasks.
Step 2. Stock a disaster supply kit
Your disaster supply kit should include:
● At least one gallon of drinking water per person per day for five to seven days;
● Non-perishable food for three meals per day per person for five to seven days;
● A five- to seven-day supply of special items such as food, formula, diapers and wipes for infants and those with special needs;
● At least a two-week supply of medications;
● Toiletries and extra toilet paper;
● Manual can opener;
● Paper goods such as plates, cups, napkins and utensils;
● Unscented household bleach and medicine dropper;
● Extra bedding such as pillows, blankets and sleeping bags;
● Clothing, including rain gear and sturdy shoes;
● First aid kit, sunscreen and hand sanitizer;
● Mosquito repellent with DEET;
● Flashlight and extra batteries;
● Battery-operated radio;
● Tool kit including cord, rope, hammer, wood nails, saw, hatchet or axe, crowbar, chain saw blades, tarp, duct tape, rake, bucket, mop, broom and heavy work gloves;
● Plastic trash bags and ties;
● Fire extinguisher;
● Matches in a waterproof container;
● Extra charcoal or propane for outdoor cooking;
● Hazard alert radio;
● Extra batteries and car charger for cell phone;
● A canned tire inflator for punctured tires;
Your pet disaster kit should include food, water, bowls, leashes, toys, bedding, carrier, medications, newspaper, cat litter, plastic bags for handling waste, and license and vaccination documentation.
Step 3: Fill your gas tank and get cash
Make sure your gas tank is full and you have extra cash on hand.
Step 4: Take steps to safeguard your home and property
Store lawn furniture and other loose items inside. Double-check tie-down straps and anchors if you live in a mobile/manufactured home. Walk around your home and evaluate the roof, windows, garage doors, patio doors, screen enclosed rooms, landscaping, etc., to see what protective measures you need to take.
Stay tuned to local media outlets like Headline Surfer via HeadlineSurfer.com around the clock to receive storm updates. County updates will be available at www.volusia.org.