Hey Neighbor

We get it, really we do. It’s easy to put off hurricane prep until the cone is pointed at Florida. But the real trick? Getting your home storm-ready long before a storm even has a name, it's way less stressful when waiting for the cone.

Here’s how to stay ahead of the forecast:

Home Prep You Can (and Should) Do Right Now

✔️ Secure windows & doors:
Check shutters, seals, and locks. Replace anything loose or rusted.

✔️ Reinforce the garage door:
It’s one of the most vulnerable parts of your home during high winds.

✔️ Clear your gutters & downspouts:
Stormwater needs somewhere to go. Make sure it’s not into your living room.

✔️ Trim tree limbs and remove dead branches:
Overhanging limbs can cause serious damage in high winds.

✔️ Unclutter your yard:
Stow away planters, furniture, garden tools, and anything else that could become a flying hazard.

✔️ Test your smoke detectors & carbon monoxide alarms:
Especially if you’ll be using a generator.

✔️ Take photos or videos of your property & belongings:
Store them digitally (and email them to yourself) in case you need them for insurance.

Here comes a doozey:

✔️ Test your generator:
Make sure to find those manufacturer's instructions and safety guidelines to ensure the safety of your family and neighbors.

Generator Pro Tip: Keep portable generators outside - as far away from your home as possible (and not in your garage!). Carbon Monoxide poisoning can occur when a generator is not working properly or vented properly.

Stay Ready, Stay Safe!
City of Cocoa Beach
www.CityofCocoaBeach.com/HurricanePrep

Pop Quiz Time!

Last Week's Question

Q: How often should you check expiration dates in your emergency kit?
(Hint: Same rhythm as your A/C filter or batteries.)

A: Every 6 months

Pro Tip: Just like your A/C filter and smoke detector batteries, your emergency kit needs a twice-a-year check. To make sure expirations are in date, we suggest checking your emergency kit at the beginning of hurricane season (June 1) and at the end of hurricane season (December 1) to make sure to rotate out:

• Expired food and medications
• Low batteries
• Outdated documents
• Kids' clothes that no longer fit (if included)

Being ready means current, your future self with thank you!

This Week's Question

We've got a riddle for you:

In silence I wait, then roar into life,
Summoned by chaos, outage, or strife.
I mimic the grid, yet stand on my own,
With fuel in my veins and current I’ve grown.
Neither candle nor storm can silence my role—
What hidden machine gives darkness a soul?