With the threat of Hurricane Irma approaching, we encourage our Members to prepare early and to be safe before, during and after the storm.
- Make sure your home is hurricane ready. Document and photograph all your valuables in your home. Repair and reinforce anything that isn’t fully attached or could blow away or cause damage. Protect windows against flying debris or shattering with plywood and duct tape.
- Know where to go. If you are ordered to evacuate, know your evacuation zone and listen to state officials if an evacuation is ordered for your area. Have a plan for how your family will communicate and a plan for where you can stay.
- Put together a “go” bag including a flashlight, batteries, first aid supplies, pet supplies, medications, copies of important information and cash. You can still stay in contact with your First Choice account with Home Banking and Mobile.
- Make a plan for your four-legged friends. Make sure all pets are wearing their ID tags with up-to-date contact information. If necessary, choose a designated caregiver outside evacuation zones. Have food and water on hand for three days.
- Have a family communications plan, keep a battery-powered radio handy, plan for adequate supplies and water for several days, and save emergency numbers.
Important numbers
- The State of Florida Emergency Hotline has been activated 24/7. For up-to-date information regarding Hurricane Irma, call 1-800-3412-3557.
- To find a hurricane shelter close to you, you can text the word “shelter” and your zip code to the number 4-F-E-M-A or 4-3-3-6-2. Always check with your local emergency management agency to make sure it’s not full.*
- Emergency referral line: 211
- FEMA Registration: 800-621-3362 | 800-462-7585
- Florida Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services: 800-435-7352
- Elder Affairs: 800-963-5337
- Florida Insurance Claim Hotline: 800-277-8676
- Unemployment Claims Emergency Hotline: 800-204-2418
Insurance Hotlines
- State Farm: 800-732-5246
- Allstate: 800-547-8676
- Citizens: 866-411-2742
- Nationwide: 800-421-3535
- USAA (Military): 800-531-8222
Important websites
- Visit www.ready.gov or www.listo.gov (Spanish) for tips on how to prepare for and stay safe during hurricanes and flooding.
- Download the FEMA Mobile App to receive alerts from the National Weather Service, get safety and survival tips, customize your emergency checklist, find your local shelter, and upload your disaster photos to help first responders
* Texting FEMA is not a substitute for calling 911.
