Hurricane season is a part of life in South Florida, and preparation is key. This page provides essential information to help you protect your family, home, and property before, during, and after a storm. From evacuation planning and emergency kits to securing your home and staying connected, we’ve got you covered with the resources you need to stay safe and informed all season long.
Property Protection
Being prepared last year does not mean you still are today. Basic upkeep and upgrades to your home can play a major part in how safe it is for you and your family.
Checklist:
Installed and fully functional storm shutters/impact-resistant windows and doors
Secured or tied down loose items and tools around your home when a hurricane is approaching
Trimmed tree branches and shrubbery
Essential Supplies
Storm survival supplies are easy to find long in advance, but tend to sell out quickly in the event of an emergency. Make sure you can weather any storm by stocking up on important items now, including the ones below.
Checklist:
Non-perishable and/or canned foods (at least a week’s worth)
Manual can opener
Gas stove or range (with gas tank)
Gallons of drinkable water (one gallon per person, per day)
Charged batteries
Wireless light sources (flashlights, battery-powered lanterns or candles)
Matches and/or lighters
Charged cellphone (kept off until needed)
Evacuation Kit
Having a packed suitcase with crucial on-the-go items can be a lifesaver in a rushed or unexpected evacuation. If you already have one, be sure to restock your existing kit for you and anyone in your care.
In the event of an upcoming storm, the Town of Lake Park will issue hurricane information via CodeRED. You will receive these calls from the phone number 561-881-3300. If you are unsure if you are registered to receive CodeRed calls from the Town of Lake Park, please email publicinformation@lakeparkflorida.gov with your phone number to ensure you are contacted. The Town also encourages everyone to register with AlertPBC to receive information about hurricanes and other emergencies. To register, please visit https://discover.pbcgov.org/publicsafety/dem/pages/ale
rt-pbc.aspx. We wish everyone a safe hurricane season.
HURRICANE READY
Brooke Silverang, Certified WPBF 25 First Warning Weather Meteorologist, shared valuable insights and tips to help you be HURRICANE READY. Check out this video to learn how to create a disaster plan, navigate hurricane-related emergencies, and more.
DISASTER SUPPLIES NOW TAX-FREE YEAR-ROUND IN FLORIDA
As of August 1, 2025, Florida residents can purchase qualifying disaster preparedness items tax-free year-round. These items are now permanently exempt — making it easier and more affordable to prepare for emergencies at any time.
Tax-exempt items include:
• Batteries (AA, AAA, C, D, 6-volt, and 9-volt)
• Carbon monoxide alarms
• Smoke detectors
• Fire extinguishers
• Portable generators (10,000 watts or less)
• Portable gas or diesel fuel cans (5 gallons or less)
• Waterproof tarps and sheeting (up to 1,000 sq ft)
• Ground anchor systems and tie-down kits
• First-aid kits
• Insect repellent (EPA-registered for use on skin)
• Sunscreen (products primarily meant to block UV rays)
• Life jackets (US Coast Guard–approved personal flotation devices)
• Bicycle helmets (for both youth and adults)
This permanent exemption ensures Florida families can stay hurricane-ready without waiting for special tax holiday dates.
