20230106  Florida Division of Emergency Management Urges Vigilance and Preparedness as 2023 Atlantic Hurricane Season Begins

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6/1/2023

Florida Division of Emergency Management Urges Vigilance and Preparedness as 2023 Atlantic Hurricane Season Begins

TALLAHASSEE, Fla – Today, the Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) marked the official start of the 2023 Atlantic Hurricane Season and urged Floridians to take action to ensure their homes and businesses are prepared. The 2023 Atlantic Hurricane Season runs from June 1 through November 30.

"As we saw in the 2022 hurricane season, it only takes one storm to cause significant impacts and devastate a community" said FDEM Director Kevin Guthrie. "If you haven't already, take the time now to finalize your hurricane preparedness plans for your families and businesses, build your disaster supply kit during the ongoing disaster sales-tax holiday, and start any last-minute home-hardening projects to mitigate impacts from future storms."

Last week, Governor Ron DeSantis announced record $2.7 billion in tax relief for Floridians, which includes two disaster preparedness sales tax holidays: May 27 – June 9, 2023, and August 26 – September 8, 2023. More on Florida's Disaster Preparedness sales tax holiday can be found here.

After a very active 2022 season, it is imperative for residents to have preparations in place ahead of any potential storms affecting our state. FDEM urges all Floridians to take a few basic steps now to plan for their personal and family needs and protection in the event of a hurricane or tropical storm. The below checklist can help as you begin your planning efforts:

Complete a Personal Assessment

Get Educated, Get Informed

Prepare an Emergency Kit

Know Your Home, Know Your Zone

Have a Plan for Your Pets

Utilities

Safety Devices

Important Records and Documents

Inventory Home Possessions

Reduce Home Hazards

Plan for Your Business