Polk County Preparing for Tropical Storm Erika
BARTOW – Polk County
Emergency Management is working with partners at the local and state level to
monitor and prepare for any impact from Tropical Storm Erika. There’s much uncertainty as to the intensity and track of the this storm, so we
recommend that residents take the following steps now to prepare for the impact
of damaging winds and rain that are typically associated with hurricane or
tropical storm conditions.
-
Polk
County Emergency Management recommends having 72 hours’ worth of food and water
for each member of the family including pets
- Be
alert for potential of downed power lines, trees and other street fixtures.
- Should
we experience urban or flash flooding, do not attempt to drive through waters.
- Clear
clogged rain gutters and drains. Hurricanes and tropical storms often bring
torrential rain. Providing clear drainage will help prevent misdirected
flooding.
- Bring
in outdoor items such as lawn furniture, trash and recycling bins, hanging
plants, toys and awnings that can be broken or picked up by strong winds and
cause damage.
- Make
sure storage sheds, children’s playhouses or other outbuildings are securely
anchored, either to a permanent foundation or with straps and ground anchors.
- Keep
your vehicles fully fueled.
- Have
a certain amount of cash available. If power is lost, ATMs may not be working.
- Make
a record of your personal property. Keep an itemized list of your furniture,
clothing and valuables to assist adjusters in case of a claim. Back it up with
photographs or video.
- Protect
your insurance policies and other important documents in a secure place like a
safe deposit box or a watertight box. Many people back up important documents
online.
- Lock
doors and windows to ensure that they are closed tight to help protect against
strong winds and rain.
For more information on disaster
preparation including how to prepare a home inventory checklist, what you
should have in your 72-hour disaster kit, and sandbagging information,
visit www.polk-county.net/prepare.
At this time, no school closures or
shelter activations have been scheduled. If, in the future, conditions
warrant school closures or shelter activations, information will be
communicated at that time. Polk County Board of County Commissioners has not
issued any government closures.
For
the most updated information, please continue to monitor your local news media
or call the Citizen’s Information Line at (863) 401-2234 (locally) or toll-free
866-661-0228. Information is also available on PGTV (Bright House 644, Comcast
5 or Verizon 20), or check the county website for updates www.polk-county.net.
You may also obtain further emergency information at www.facebook.com/polkcountyem
and www.twitter.com/polkemergency.