Did you know that September is National Preparedness Month?

It's an initiative of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

In Florida, sunshine and palm trees go hand-in-hand with hurricane winds and storm surges. That’s why having a MAC Emergency Plan, aka disaster plan, is more than just a good idea – it’s your lifeline to staying safe when Mother Nature throws her tantrums.

Why Every Florida Resident Needs a MAC Plan:

Hurricanes, tropical storms, tornadoes, and floods aren’t just TV drama in Florida. They’re realities you may face, requiring you to either hunker down at home or seek shelter elsewhere. A MAC Plan cuts through the panic, providing clear steps and peace of mind knowing you’ve prepped for anything. Don’t forget house fires, health emergencies, and other threats – they all warrant a well-oiled response plan.

Building Your MAC Fortress:

1. Shelter & Evacuation:

  • Meeting Points: Choose two – one near your home for quick escapes (fire, gas leaks) and another outside your neighborhood for full-blown evacuations. Consider accessibility for everyone, including pets.
  • Evacuation Routes: Plan multiple options in case traffic snarls or debris blocks your usual path. Identify hotels, friends’ houses, and official shelters as potential havens.
  • Special Needs: Pack medications, assistive devices, and comfort items for vulnerable family members like children, seniors, and pets. Remember, microchipping your furry friend can reunite you if they get separated.

2. Supplies & Go Bag:

  • Stock Up: Fill your pantry with shelf-stable food and water. Don’t forget a first-aid kit, important documents, cash, phone chargers, and even boredom-busters for kids and pets.
  • Grab & Go: Assemble a “go bag” with essentials you can snatch in a hurry. Include special need items like diapers, baby food, medications, and pet supplies.

3. Communication Network:

  • Stay Connected: Compile everyone’s contact information, including friends, family, schools, doctors, emergency services, and an out-of-state contact for when local communication falters.
  • Emergency Cards: Use templates like the American Red Cross’s to ensure everyone has crucial details at their fingertips.

4. Stay Alert:

  • Cellphone Alerts: Enable emergency and public safety alerts on your phone.
  • NOAA Weather Radio: Stay tuned to 24/7 broadcasts for real-time updates.
  • Emergency Apps: Download local alert apps like FEMA or The Weather Channel.
  • Local Alerts: Search online for your city and “Florida alerts” to discover more targeted warnings.

5. Know the Plan & Practice!:

  • Make it Permanent: Keep your MAC Plan visible and accessible, like on the fridge.
  • Practice Makes Perfect: Simulate evacuations from various starting points, both day and night, with and without a head’s up.
  • Insurance Matters: Include insurance in your plan. Document your property, understand your coverage, and consider upgrading if needed.

Stay Ahead of the Sunshine State’s Curveballs:

At MAC Insurance, we’ve been Florida’s partner in disaster preparedness since 2005. We offer comprehensive multi-peril policies for homes, condos, renter’s belongings, and more. Let’s get you covered and weather any storm with confidence. Get a quote online or call your local MAC agent today!

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