The Miami-Dade County Department of Emergency Management (DEM) has issued a reminder for residents and visitors to prepare for the 2024 hurricane season, which began on June 1 and will last through November 30.
According to forecasts by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the season is expected to be above-normal with 17 to 25 named storms, including 8 to 13 hurricanes and 4 to 7 major hurricanes.
The DEM stresses the importance of early preparation.
As reported by Miami-Dade County Department of Emergency Management, residents should have received the Hurricane Readiness Guide by mail, with a digital version also available online.
Preparing homes and businesses well in advance can help ensure safety when a storm approaches.
The DEM recommends several key steps to ensure readiness for the hurricane season.
First, residents should assemble an emergency kit containing essential items such as drinking water, non-perishable food, a manual can opener, a flashlight, a weather radio, a first aid kit, medications, and important documents.
Pets should also be considered in these preparations.
Second, families should create an emergency plan with evacuation routes and contact information.
It is crucial to have an out-of-town contact that all family members can reach if local calls are not possible during an emergency.
Miami-Dade County offers several resources to assist residents in preparing for hurricanes.
The Emergency Evacuation Assistance Program (EEAP) is available for individuals with functional and access needs who require evacuation assistance.
Additionally, the Ready Miami-Dade App provides real-time hurricane news, including evacuation orders, emergency bus pick-up sites, and open evacuation centers.
The app is available on both iPhone and Android devices.
Residents are also encouraged to sign up for Miami-Dade Alerts, a free service that sends text messages about significant emergency events.
Knowing your Storm Surge Planning Zone is essential for understanding potential impacts and evacuation needs based on storm surge projections.
Miami-Dade County promotes community involvement in disaster preparedness through the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) program.
The CERT program offers free training in basic disaster response skills, including fire safety, light search and rescue, team organization, and disaster medical operations.
Volunteers play a vital role in supporting emergency response agencies during disasters.
Understanding the steps to take before, during, and after a storm can significantly increase survival chances and help protect property and businesses.
The DEM emphasizes the importance of staying informed and involved to enhance community resilience during the hurricane season.
