08/03/2024
Attention Tampa Residents
The Tropical Storm is expected to strengthen as it nears the Florida coastline. Tampa Bay is under a Tropical Storm warning as of this morning.
Stronger winds and heavy rains will be seen as early as tonight.
It's important that we all take the necessary precautions to ensure our safety and minimize potential damage. Below are key steps you should follow to prepare for the storm:
Storm Preparation Checklist:
1. Secure Outdoor Items: Bring in or secure outdoor furniture, decorations, and other items that could become projectiles in high winds.
2. Stock Up on Essentials:
- Ensure you have enough food, water, and medications to last at least three days. Don’t forget pet supplies if you have pets.
- Have a flashlight, batteries, a first aid kit, and necessary personal hygiene items ready.
3. Check Your Emergency Kit: Verify that your emergency kit includes all necessary items, such as a battery-operated radio, extra batteries, bandages, antiseptic, and a multi-tool.
4. Cash: ATMs and credit card machines may not be operational after a storm.
5. Important Documents: Keep recent photographs of the interior and exterior of your home, and any important documents, in a waterproof container. Photos of installed shutters can be helpful if you need to file a claim.
6. Stay Informed: Monitor local news channels, weather updates, and our community website for the latest information and updates on the storm’s progress.
7. Plan for Power Outages:
• Charge your mobile devices and keep them fully charged.
• If you rely on life-sustaining medical equipment, ensure you have a backup power source and notify TECO’s Medical Watch Program.
8. Protect Your Home:
• Close and secure all windows and doors.
• Consider using storm shutters or plywood to protect windows if necessary.
9. Know Your Evacuation Route:
• Familiarize yourself with local evacuation routes and have a plan in place in case an evacuation is ordered.
10. Keep Important Documents Safe:
• Store important documents, such as identification, insurance policies, and medical records, in a waterproof container.
11. During the Storm:
• Stay indoors and away from windows.
• Follow official instructions from local authorities.
We encourage everyone to stay safe and be well-prepared.
