Hurricane season is here, and preparation isn’t optional—it’s responsibility.
Every year, storms test Central Florida in different ways. Wind, flooding, power outages, and supply shortages can escalate quickly. The difference between chaos and control often comes down to preparation before the storm forms.
This guide is direct, local, and actionable.
Track Storms Early — Don’t Wait
Do not rely on word of mouth.
Actively monitor storms through official sources:
→ National Hurricane Center (nhc.noaa.gov)
→ Seminole County Emergency Management (prepareseminole.org)
→ Local news and weather alerts
Storm paths shift. Waiting until the last minute limits your options.
Save These Emergency Numbers NOW
Do this today—not during a storm.
→ Seminole County Emergency Management: 407-665-5102
→ Non-Emergency Sheriff Line: 407-665-6650
→ Florida Power & Light (FPL): 1-800-4-OUTAGE
→ 911 (for life-threatening emergencies ONLY)
Write them down. Screenshot them. Keep them accessible if your phone dies or service drops.
Build Your Supply Kit Immediately
If shelves are empty, it’s already too late.
Minimum essentials:
→ Water (1 gallon per person per day, at least 3–5 days)
→ Non-perishable food
→ Flashlights + extra batteries
→ Portable phone chargers / power banks
→ First aid kit + medications
→ Cash (card systems may go down)
→ Important documents (sealed/waterproof)
Optional but recommended:
→ Battery-powered radio
→ Ice + coolers
→ Hygiene supplies
→ Baby / pet supplies if applicable
Sandbags & Free Resources in Seminole County
Seminole County often provides free sandbags ahead of major storms.
Common pickup locations include:
→ Boombah Sports Complex (Sanford area)
→ Sanlando Park
→ Soldiers Creek Park
Check live updates here:
→ prepareseminole.org
→ Seminole County Government social media pages
Bring your own shovel—sandbag sites are typically self-service.
Know Your Evacuation Zone & Shelter Options
Not all areas are equal.
If you live in:
→ Flood-prone zones
→ Mobile homes
→ Low-lying areas near water
You may need to evacuate.
Find your zone and shelter info here:
→ prepareseminole.org
Local shelters (when activated) may include schools and designated emergency centers.
Elderly & Special Needs Assistance
This is critical—and often overlooked.
If you or someone you know is:
→ Elderly
→ Disabled
→ Medically dependent
Register with the Seminole County Special Needs Program.
This provides:
→ Transportation assistance
→ Priority shelter placement
→ Medical support during emergencies
Register here:
→ prepareseminole.org (Special Needs section)
Check on neighbors. A 2-minute visit can save a life.
Secure Your Property
Do this before winds pick up:
→ Bring in outdoor furniture, grills, and loose items
→ Board or secure windows if needed
→ Trim weak tree branches
→ Fuel your vehicle
→ Test generators (OUTSIDE use only)
Small actions now prevent major damage later.
Stay Local. Stay Connected.
Sanford is a strong community—but storms don’t care about strength.
They test preparation.
Support local businesses early.
Help neighbors secure their homes.
Share verified information—not rumors.
Final Word
Do not wait for a named storm.
Prepare now.
Track actively.
Stay informed.
Help others.
Because when the storm comes, the goal isn’t to react.
The goal is to already be ready.
