Emergency

Hurricane preparation plan

Much of the United States population lives within striking distance of a summer or early fall hurricane. It is important for people who live in these areas to have preparation plans well before a hurricane threatens. Here are some tips that you can use to design and implement a hurricane preparation plan.

Plan an evacuation route

Use the City of Palmetto Evacuation Map Contact the local emergency management office (749-3500) or American Red Cross chapter (792-8686), and ask for the latest Hurricane Preparedness Guide. This plan should include information on the safest evacuation routes and nearby shelters. Learn safe routes inland. Be ready to drive 20 to 50 miles inland to locate a safe place.

Evacuation Zones and Route Maps.

Have disaster supplies on hand

Flashlight and extra batteries. Portable, battery-operated radio and extra batteries. First aid kit and manual. Emergency food and water. Non-electric can opener. Essential medicines. Cash and credit cards, Sturdy shoes.

Disaster Planning Guide link.

Protect your windows

Permanent shutters are the best protection. A lower-cost approach is to put up plywood panels. Use 5/6 or 3/4 inch plywood - marine plywood is best - cut to fit each window. Remember to mark which board fits which window. Pre-drill holes every 18 inches for screws.

Make arrangements for pets

Pets may be allowed into emergency shelters. Contact the Manatee County Emergency Management office, (749-3500) for information on local animal shelters.

Make arrangements for special needs

Contact Manatee County Emergency Management, (749-3500) and pre-register for the special needs shelter if you have medical needs.

Include all family members in plan

Teach family members how and when to turn off gas, electricity, and water. Teach children how and when to call 9-1-1, police, fire or ambulance service and which radio station to tune to for emergency information.

Develop an emergency communication plan

Make sure all family members know how to respond after a hurricane. Ask an out-of-state relative or friend to serve as the "family contact". After a disaster, it is often easier to call long distance. Make sure everyone in the family knows the name, address and phone number of the contact person.

Post disaster recovery plan - re-entry program

The purpose of the Re-Entry Program is to accomodate a SAFE and ORDERLY return to the City of Palmetto, including Snead Island, FOLLOWING an emergency evacuation due to a hurricane or other incident which involves reentry. Returning to your business property or residence may be restricted depending upon the nature of the incident. For detailed instructions and information regarding the reentry program and process, please refer to one of the following links: