The City of Destin’s 2013 Hurricane Information Guide is now available online at www.cityofdestin.com under the City Services tab. This comprehensive guide is updated annually and provides important information for citizens regarding what to do before, during and after a storm. Hurricane season began June 1 and ends Nov. 30.
Along with the Hurricane Information Guide, the city provides Emergency Alerts via the city website, www.cityofdestin.com. Anyone with an email address or text-enabled mobile phone can receive updates from the city when the Emergency Alert is activated. To sign up, simply click the “Notify Me” button on the right-hand side of the home page, enter your email address and then select “Alert Center” to receive updates. There are also other useful notifications available including news flashes and quarterly newsletter updates.
During an emergency, the city works with Okaloosa County Emergency Management to monitor weather and inform citizens of important information such as storm tracking, road/facility closings, evacuations, etc. Okaloosa County Emergency Management is the lead organization during all countywide emergency situations.
The City of Destin reminds residents to be prepared for the 2013 hurricane season and refer to the 2013 Hurricane Information Guide for details on how to stay safe before, during and after a storm.
Below are some preparation tips to follow before a storm occurs:
• Hold a family meeting.
• Know your evacuation plan.
• Ensure your assets are protected.
• Assess your home for vulnerable areas (Clear loose debris and cut limbs now. Do not wait until a storm is eminent as pickup may not be available right before a storm hits).
• Gather supplies (batteries, bottled water, sandbags – if necessary, etc.).
• Notify others of your plan.