Getting ahead of the storms with your hurricane checklist

With many of us kicking off our Fourth of July holiday, the last thing we want to do is spend a lot of time getting prepared for a hurricane, but it’s something we need to do.

The number one rule is “don’t panic.” Keep cool, calm and collected. If you need to stock up on any emergency supplies, you’ll want to do that sooner rather than later, but now is a great time because of the Freedom Week tax holiday.

Here are some of those items you might need that will not be taxed:

• Sunscreen
• Insect repellent
• Outdoor grills
• Camping stove
• Coolers
• Safety flares
• Camping lanterns
• Flashlights

WINK News spoke to locals on the importance of getting ahead of the game.

“If everybody did the same thing, they wouldn’t be in a situation where they can’t get what they need; you know, flashlights, batteries, we’ve got all that stuff,” said Lou Chignoli from Fort Myers.

“I haven’t really even given it a second thought,” said Philip Gilles, another Fort Myers resident. “Usually, when we’re in the middle of the forecast cone, that’s almost a guarantee—if we’re five days out—that it’s not going to hit there.”

You may want to make a checklist for all the things you’ll want to store and take care of at home if a storm’s arrival is imminent:

• Clear your drains
• Trim nearby trees and bushes
• Know where to find your
  • Prescriptions
  • Financial documents
  • Vaccine card
• Flashlights
• Batteries
• First aid kit
  • Hand sanitizer
• Cell phone charger
• Backup battery