Today, Congresswoman Lois Frankel (FL-21) issued the following statement ahead of Hurricane Irma’s potential landfall in South Florida.
“It’s important to start preparing for this dangerous storm now. Four major hurricanes hit Florida when I was Mayor of West Palm Beach – Charley, Jeanne, Frances and Wilma – and I can say the most important thing to do now is take this seriously by heeding evacuation notices and preparing for the worst. Local government and disaster relief organizations will do everything possible to help you through this, but because of the unpredictable nature of this storm your personal preparation is key to your safety.
As your Representative in Congress, please know that your safety is my priority. I am in contact with local and federal officials to facilitate communication and assistance in any way possible – before, during and after the storm.”
Below are resources and important information to help all District 21 residents prepare for Hurricane Irma.
If you are in a mandatory evacuation zone, evacuate immediately. Know your evacuation routes and prepare options for overnight lodging.
If you are staying in your home, prepare a disaster kit that includes a three-day supply of food and water for each person, important medications, extra batteries for flashlights, and any necessary paperwork.
Charge all your devices so you can stay in communication with family and friends.
If you live alone, communicate with your neighbors or find a buddy to lodge with during the storm.
Most importantly, follow instructions from local officials and the State Emergency Response Team. You can find the most accurate information and latest updates here: http://www.floridadisaster.org/index.asp, or call the Florida Emergency Information Line at 1-800-342-3557.
If you have pets, assemble them an emergency kit including water, food, first aid kits, a collar and ID tag, a crate or pet carrier, familiar toys, important documentation, and bags for cleaning up after your pet.
If you have questions about evacuations or setting up your emergency plan, Palm Beach County Emergency Management can be reached at 561-712-6400.
Congresswoman Frankel’s office is here to serve you. Contact the office anytime at 202-225-9890. In case of emergency call 911, but be aware that first responders may not be able to reach you during the storm.
FEMA, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, has begun preparations for shelters and supplies, and they have 700 emergency staffers deployed to Florida and ready to respond. After the storm FEMA will be on the ground aiding in recovery efforts by supporting shelters, delivering food and water, and distributing federal disaster relief funds.
