Sumter Times

Sumter County Sumter County serves as lead for local emergency management programs and services throughout the entire county.  

They provide a great deal of information on their website at https://www.sumtercountyfl.gov/718/Emergency-Management, including tropical storm and hurricane preparation recommendations:

Immediately Before the Storm

When a tropical storm or hurricane watch is issued, you should:

Have completed all hurricane preparations BEFORE the storm winds approach.Identify a “safe room” inside your home.

Frequently monitor radio, TV, NOAA Weather Radio, or Sumter County's website for official bulletins of the storm's progress.

Fuel and service family vehicles.

Inspect and secure manufactured home tie-downs.

Begin covering all windows and door openings with shutters or other shielding materials.

Check food and water supplies.

Keep a cooler with frozen gel packs for packing refrigerated items.

Turn your refrigerator to its coldest setting.

Check prescription medicines-obtain a 14-day (two week) supply.

Stock extra batteries for radios, flashlights, and lanterns.

Secure lawn furniture and other loose, lightweight objects, such as garbage cans, potted plants, etc.

Have an extra supply of cash on hand.

Clear your yard. Make sure there's nothing that could blow around during the storm and damage your home. Move bikes, lawn furniture, grills, propane tanks, and building material inside or under shelter.

Complete preparation activities.

When a tropical storm or hurricane warning is issued, you should:

Closely monitor weather forecasts and news.

Finish up all preparedness actions before the arrival of tropical cyclone force winds.

Follow evacuation orders from local officials, if given.

Check-in with family and friends by texting or using social media.

Charge your cell phone so you will have a full battery in case you lose power.

Turn your refrigerator or freezer to the coldest setting and only open when necessary. If you lose power, food will last longer. Keep a thermometer in the refrigerator to be able to check the food temperature when power is restored.

If you're not in an area that is recommended for evacuation, play to stay at home or where you are and let friends and family know where you are.

Keep your car in good working condition, and keep the gas tank full; stock your vehicle with emergency supplies and a change of clothes.

Residents with any specific storm-related concerns should call Sumter County at 352-689-4400.

Original source can be found here.