Area hurricane evacuation maps have been updated, officials noted. Residents are encouraged to check the updated maps online to know their evacuation level, previously known as a "zone."
According to Sarasota County Emergency Management officials, just because you can't see water from your home doesn't mean you're not at risk for storm surge. The updated hurricane evacuation levels and storm surge maps are available online by visiting scgov.net/beprepared.
Residents also need to take steps now to be ready. As a storm approaches, it is often too late to get ready. Take action now to be prepared for hurricane season. Make sure your family has an evacuation plan, communications plan and a disaster kit. A disaster kit should have supplies to last each person a minimum of three days. Remember, "The First 72 Are on You," officials said, citing the slogan denoting that outside resources and support may not be available within the first 72 hours of a storm, depending on its severity.
The public also needs to know where to go to get trusted information during a hurricane event. If you haven't signed up already for CodeRED Alerts or for Sarasota County emergency newsletter, residents are strongly encouraged to do so now. The Herald-Tribune will publish its Hurricane Guide on May 19.
Sign up for county alerts and the emergency newsletter by visiting scgov.net and looking under the Emergency Services page. In addition, monitor local media, Sarasota County Facebook and Twitter accounts for hurricane watches and warnings. Remember to follow directions of local officials, along with having a battery-operated or hand-crank radio available should the power go out.
For more information on how you and your family can be prepared, visit www.scgov.net/beprepared or call the Sarasota County Contact Center at 941-861-5000.
———
©2019 Sarasota Herald-Tribune, Fla.
Visit Sarasota Herald-Tribune, Fla. at www.heraldtribune.com
Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
