With hurricane season inching upon us, it is good to be informed and prepared—especially when living in an apartment in Florida. This post has all the information you need in order to adequately equip yourself with the tools and facts you’ll need in the event that a hurricane makes landfall in Central Florida. 

To start, ensure that your renter’s insurance, including flood insurance, is paid for and up to date. Fill your car’s gas tank up and park it as far away from trees as possible. It is also a good idea to have a few days to a week’s supply of cash in case of emergency. Take inventory of anything of yours that is outside so you know whether to bring items inside or simply tie them down outside. Any important papers, valuables, and things like photo albums should be placed in something safe, such as a security deposit box. It also can be beneficial to have copies of the aforementioned papers in another location. Contrary to popular myth, taping your windows does not offer hurricane protection, so it is recommended to spend time elsewhere in terms of preparation, like making sure you will have a working radio or television to stay updated. Also know that generators cannot be used on the property if the power goes out.        

Now, on to a recommended list of things you should have to prepare for a hurricane:

1. Paper towels, plates, and cups, as well as plastic utensils—basically any disposable kitchenware.
2. Personal hygiene supplies such as toilet paper, deodorant, toothbrushes/toothpaste, and menstrual products.
3. Clean, empty containers that can be used for storing water, cooking, and washing.
4. A manual can opener along with non-perishable food items, like vegetables, fruits, and soups, to sustain you for the time being.
5. Mosquito repellent (citronella candles act as light, mosquito repellent, and a bit of heat!), a wind-up clock, and absorbent towels/rags.
6. Bottled water, Gatorade, fruit juices, evaporated milk, and any other instant drinks like coffee and tea.
7. Prescriptions! Any medication you, your family, or your pets have to take should be filled at the pharmacy and picked up in advance of the storm.
8. Pet food and extra water for pets.
9. Batteries for things like radios and flashlights.
10. Battery-operated radios and flashlights!

As always, please evacuate if you are in an evacuation zone and are able to do so quickly and safely. 

For more information on The Flats Apartment Living in Downtown Avalon Park, call 407-273-4337 or email Info@TheFlatsAtAvalonPark.com.