Governor Rick Scott has strong language for Floridians as Hurricane Irma pushes closer and closer to us.
"I can not stress this enough,” he said at a press conference Wednesday afternoon. “Get prepared, know your evacuation zone, listen to your locals. And you have to take this seriously. Remember: We can rebuild your home; we cannot rebuild your life. This is a life-threatening storm, protecting life is an absolute top priority."
"Storm surge and extreme winds are the biggest concern right now. This storm is bigger, faster and stronger than Hurricane Andrew,” said Scott. “Many here experienced Andrew. This storm, Irma's strength, far exceeds that of Andrew."
"We are being very aggressive in our preparation for this storm and every Floridian should take this seriously and be aggressive to protect their family.”
As a reminder, here's what you need in a disaster supply kit:
- Water: one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days
- Food: minimum three days worth of nonperishable food and a manual can opener
- Battery-powered radio
- Flashlight
- Extra batteries
- First-aid kit
- Whistle to signal for help
- Dust mask to help filter contaminated air
- Moist towelettes, garbage bags, and toilet paper for sanitation
- Wrench or pliers
- Local maps
- Prescription medications
- Infant formula and diapers
- Pet food and water for pet
- Cash
- Family documents
- Changes of clothes
Evacuation guidelines:
- Make a plan ahead of time
- Be aware of locations of hurricane evacuation shelters
- Keep a full tank of gas if evacuation seems likely
- Take one car per family to reduce traffic and delay
- Leave early enough to avoid being trapped by weather
- Follow recommended evacuation routes as other roads may be blocked
- Be alert for road hazards and do not drive into flooded areas
- Keep an emergency supply kit in the car
- Take a battery-powered radio to hear updates on evacuation instructions
- People without a car should make prior arrangements for evacuation
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