Longtime islanders tend to boast that despite a lot of activity, hurricanes have never directly hit Anna Maria Island.
But that doesn’t mean AMI property and infrastructure hasn’t suffered storm damage.
Even storms passing hundreds of miles away in the Gulf of Mexico — or far inland — can bring high water and heavy wind that damages homes, businesses, roads, vehicles and utility lines.
So storm readiness requires preparing to deal with disaster or even just post-storm headaches.
Some tips:
- Continue to monitor local newspapers, radio and television.
- Do not travel until it’s safe to do so.
- Avoid driving through floodwater. Vehicles can be swept away in 18-24 inches of moving water.
- Avoid standing in floodwater, which can be contaminated with sewage or contain dangerous animals.
- Call 911 to report any hazardous conditions.
- If a property contains floodwater and is serviced by electricity, do not enter. Contact first responders for help.
- Stay far away from downed power lines and debris-laden areas that may be hiding downed lines. Do not touch anything that may be touching a downed power line.
- Call Florida Power and Light at 800-4-OUTAGE to report downed power lines or damage to lines, poles or transformers.
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions if using a generator. Set it up outside — not in a home or garage — and connect all appliances directly to the generator. Never wire a generator to your breaker or fuse box.
- Do not use candles. Instead use battery-operated flashlights and lanterns.
- Be cautious when using a grill, portable stove or other emergency cooking devices.
- Continue to conserve refrigeration. Check food for spoilage and, if in doubt, throw it out.
- Photograph or record your property — inside and outside. Take inventory to determine and record losses.
- Check in with neighbors to offer aid as needed.
- Inform family of your whereabouts.
- Beware of price gouging. People impacted by natural disaster can become targets of businesses and individuals but Florida law protects consumers against spikes in lumber, ice, water, generators and shelter in an emergency. The law requires the state to look for “gross disparity” in pricing and the Florida Attorney General’s Office welcomes consumers to report incidents.
- Look for scams. Get at least three written and itemized estimates for any work related to a natural emergency.
