Emergency Management
Start the year strong: Plan for emergencies now
Florida ' s weather can change rapidly, so having a clear and practiced emergency plan is crucial for protecting your loved ones.
An emergency plan isn’ t just a checklist; it’ s a shared understanding among everyone in your home. When each person knows what to do, where to go and how to communicate, stressful moments become far more manageable.
Start the year by checking your emergency kit. Replace expired items, restock essentials and make sure you have enough supplies to support your household for several days. Water, non‐perishable food, flashlights, chargers and copies of important documents are all must‐haves.
Simple steps taken early in the year can reduce damage during storms. A few examples include:
• Clearing gutters and swales
• Reviewing your insurance coverage
• Photographing your home and belongings for documentation
• Identify any repairs that could improve safety
The City of Port St. Lucie ' s Office of Emergency Management offers preparedness tips and storm season information year-round on its website: www. cityofpsl. com / EM.
2026 Flood Awareness Week
Flood Awareness Week runs from March 9-15. During this period, consider preparing resources, seeking expert advice and engaging in activities to enhance preparedness and safety measures. Floods are significant natural disasters, but with appropriate knowledge, you can safeguard yourself, your loved ones and your property.
It is essential to understand the flood risks in your area and their potential impacts on your home, neighborhood and community. Securing your property and creating an emergency kit are crucial steps you can take today to ensure your safety during a flood. Stay informed to avoid unexpected surprises.
Flood warnings Local authorities will issue flood warnings when flooding is imminent, so it is key to monitor local media outlets. Local outlets that provide warnings are:
• Local weather reports
• National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration( NOAA) National Weather Service( NWS)
• Weather alert radios provide emergency updates You can sign up for emergency notifications from St. Lucie County at stlucieco. gov / alert. www. CityofPSL. com / EM
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