Hurricane Preparedness

Hurricane season starts on June 1st and runs through November 30th of each year. All Viera residents need to be prepared. The following information is being provided to assist you and your family in developing your family plan and being ready in the event of a disaster.

Resources

Florida Department of Emergency Management
Brevard County Emergency Management
Get a Plan
Severe Weather Awareness Guide
FEMA
NOAA - National Hurricane Center
American Red Cross - Preparedness Guide for Seniors
Lighting Safety Guide
Preparing for Disasters - What to Buy, What to Skip

Disaster Planning - Basic Emergency Kit

Supply of Clean Water (one gallon per person per day)
Supply of Non-Perishable (packaged or canned) food with a non-electric can opener
Change of Clothing
Rain Gear
Sturdy Shoes
Blankets or Sleeping Bags
First Aid Kit
Sufficient Supply of Prescription Medications
Extra Pair of Glasses
Battery Powered Radio and Flashlight
Extra Batteries
Cash (credit/debit cards don't work without power)
Extra Set of Car Keys
Bug Spray/Repellent
List of Family Physicians

Disaster Planning for Pets

Do you have a plan for your best friend? Having a disaster plan for your pets is important during hurricane season. The following guidance is provided by FEMA to assist pet owners in an emergency.

Identifying shelter. For public health reasons, many emergency shelters cannot accept pets. Find out which motels and hotels in the area you plan to evacuate to allow pets -- well in advance of needing them. There are also a number of guides that list hotels/motels that permit pets and could serve as a starting point. Include your local animal shelter's number in your list of emergency numbers -- they might be able to provide information concerning pets during a disaster.

Take pet food, bottled water, medications, veterinary records, cat litter/pan, can opener, food dishes, first aid kit and other supplies with you in case they are not available later. While the sun is still shining, consider packing a "pet survival" kit, which could be easily deployed if disaster hits.

Here is guidance from the ASPCA on preparing for disasters with pets:  www.aspca.org/pet-care/general-pet-care/disaster-preparedness