Disaster Supply Kit Recommended For Homeowners

SPRING HILL - The Hurricane Expo is Saturday, but it is not too early to stock up on the necessary supplies in case a natural disaster hits home, emergency responders said.

Hernando County Emergency Management has outlined a Home Disaster Supply Kit on its Web site (www.hernandocounty.us/em). The contents include everything from food and water to games and books.

If families are going to be without electricity for a while, there must be something within reach to occupy their time.

That is why toys, books, games and decks of cards should be included in any supply kit, particularly when there are children involved, according to Emergency Management.

Every list begins with bottled water and nonperishable foods. Specifically, the latter could include canned foods, crackers, infant meals, protein drinks and snack foods.

Nonelectric can openers, cooking tools, paper plates, disposable cups and plastic utensils also should be included.

Families should stock up on enough blankets, pillows and clothing and have first-aid kits, medicines and prescription drugs nearby.

Toiletries, moisture wipes, flashlights, batteries, money, keys and pet care items also should be purchased in high quantities.

Emergency Management has a section on its Web site dedicated to pets.

The best evacuation plan for your pets is to have them stay in a safe area with friends and relatives, according to the animal rescue groups.

Pet owners should have secure carriers, collars, leashes and rabies tags.

For more information, visit www.hernandocounty.us/em.

Reporter Tony Holt can be reached at 352-544-5283 or wholt@hernandotoday.com.

Hurricane Shelter

Information

Shelters do not open in a certain order, so residents with questions about which shelters are open should call the public information center at 754-4083. Special needs shelters require pre-registration. Contact the emergency management center for more information. Residents with pets should make prior arrangements or call animal services to assist them.

West Hernando Middle School - 14325 Ken Austin Parkway, Brooksville (special needs shelter)

Deltona Elementary School - 2055 Deltona Blvd., Spring Hill

Challenger K-8 School - 13400 Elgin Blvd., Spring Hill

Fox Chapel Middle School - 9412 Fox Chapel Lane, Spring Hill

Moton Elementary - 7175 Emerson Road, Brooksville

Chocachatti Elementary - 4135 California St., Brooksville

Hernando High School - 700 Bell Ave., Brooksville

F.W. Springstead High School - 3300 Mariner Blvd., Spring Hill

Nature Coast Technical High School - 4057 California St., Brooksville

Parrott Middle School - 19220 Youth Drive, Brooksville (pet-friendly shelter)