BARTOW - (September 15, 2009) – September marks the middle of hurricane season and Polk County Emergency Management reminds residents to remain vigilant in their preparedness efforts.
If you have not already done so, be sure your family has a plan in place in the event a disaster strikes and you must evacuate. Don’t forget to include your family pet in your plan. Your plan should also be flexible depending on the type of orders issued by officials.
“Now is the time to prepare. Waiting until a storm is bearing down is too late,” said Pete McNally, Polk County Emergency Management Director. “For the safety of your family, have a plan in place and be ready to put it into action should the need arise.”
Remember, if ordered to evacuate, it is always best to try and seek shelter with a friend or family member as you will be more comfortable there. The next option should be a hotel or motel outside the affected area. The last option should be a public shelter where you and your family can weather the storm. If ordered to shelter-in-place, this means your family will need to make the appropriate arrangements to hunker down in your home until officials give the all clear.
Be sure you have sufficient supplies should you be required to shelter-in-place. A list of supplies for a disaster supply kit as well as a public shelter map can be downloaded by visiting www.polk-county.net/em.
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