Are you ready for hurricane season?

Are you ready for hurricane season? You be prepared and be proactive in planning for and responding to all hazards. VA urges you to stay vigilant.

Family emergency kit

These actions will help you and your family prepare:

• Find out if you live in a hurricane evacuation zone.
• Locate the nearest shelter if you need to leave your home.
• Review/update insurance policies.
• Build or replenish your emergency kit with hurricane supplies.
• Create, be familiar and test your family plan.
• Stay informed with the latest local and national information.

Evacuation plan

Add evacuation routes and shelter areas to your plan. Load evacuation routes and nearest shelter directions to your phone maps. If you live in a hurricane zone, now is the time to know your way to shelters/safe areas. Know where you would go and how to get there. You do not need to travel hundreds of miles but need multiple options.

Your destination could be a friend or relative who doesn’t live in an evacuation zone. If you live in a well-built home outside the evacuation zone, your safest place may be your home.

Pets should not be left behind

Stay alert, listen, and move following the direction of your local authorities.

Don’t leave your pet stranded

Your pet may be your best friend, but due to health regulations, most emergency shelters cannot house animals.

Find out in advance how to care for your pets and working animals when disaster strikes. Pets should not be left behind… check with your veterinarian, a friend or your local animal shelter about options should you have to leave your home. Be sure to take food and water for your pets.

Remember that you may need to adjust evacuation plans based on the latest health and safety guidelines. Stay informed. Build and test your preparedness plan and “go” kit.

Online resources

• FEMA Hurricane Preparedness
• National Weather Service Hurricane Preparedness Page
• Find your evacuation zone
• Assemble your supplies
• Get an insurance check-up
• Strengthen your home
• Help your neighbor
• Complete your plan

As we look to a forecasted “active” tropical storm and hurricane 2022 season, continue to protect you and your family by staying informed with local forecasts, having a preparedness plan and follow guidance from local emergency management officials.