Now is the time to stock up on Hurricane Supplies!
It’s official. Hurricane season is upon us again. Although it is predicted to be a relatively calm season, we still must be prepared. As we have learned in the past, it just takes one storm to cause mass destruction.
This year, from May 31 through June 8, the State of Florida is participating in the Preparedness Sales Tax Holiday. During this time period, you can stock up on supplies that are exempt from tax, for the upcoming season.
To take full advantage of this sales tax holiday period, you should be aware of what items qualify. Qualifying items are divided by price levels. They are as follows:
Selling for $10 or less:
• Reusable ice packs
Selling for $20 or less:
• Portable self-powered light sources
• Battery powered flashlights and lanterns
• Gas powered lanterns that run on propane, kerosene, lamp oil, or similar fuel.
• Tiki torches
• Candles
Selling for $25 or less
• Any gas, diesel fuel, LP gas or kerosene containers
Selling for $30 or less
• Batteries including rechargeable batteries. Battery chargers are not exempt from the sales tax holiday. Only AA, C, D, 6-volt or 9-volt batteries qualify.
• Non-electrical coolers
• Non-electrical ice chests
• Self-contained first aid-kits
Selling for $50 or less
• Tarps
• Visqueen, plastic sheeting, plastic drop cloths, and other flexible waterproof sheeting
• Ground anchor systems
• Bungee cords
• Ratchet straps
• Self-powered or battery-powered radios and weather band radios
Selling for $750 or less
• Portable generators whose primary function will be to provide lights, communication, or to preserve food in the event of a power outage.
After you have taken advantage of this sales tax holiday, remember your kit is not complete. To be prepared, remember to stock up on the following:
• Non-perishable foods such as canned goods, powdered or single-serve drinks, cereal, and cookies. Always have a manual can opener in your house to open any cans. Have one gallon of water per person per day, and half a gallon per pet per day. Each person in your household should have their own flashlight, and a battery-powered lantern is useful at night. Also, have a battery-operated radio or TV so you can stay informed. Don’t forget the extra batteries! Have a first aid kit nearby, and have some unscented bleach or water purification tables. Extra cash is important.
• Have a way to heat up food. This can be in the form of a portable camp stove, or a barbecue grill. It is a good idea to have extra stove fuel, charcoal with lighted fluid, or propane. Also stock up on plastic plates, cups and eating utensils, as well as aluminum foil.
• Gather personnel supplies such as prescription medicines. A one-month supply is recommended. If you wear contact lenses, make sure you have an extra pair along with glasses and plenty of saline solution. Also make sure you have enough personal hygiene products and toilet paper in your home. Have ways to keep your family entertained during and after the storm such as books, magazines, board games, or dominos.
• Remember to stock up on diapers for babies. Also make sure you have enough formula, food, medication, and diaper rash cream.
• Don’t forget about your pets! Make sure you stock up on dry or canned food. Look at your pet’s identification tag and make sure your contact information is legible. Don’t forget to have their carrying container nearby in case of evacuations.
• Place all of your important documents in a waterproof container. These documents should include insurance and banking information, proof of occupancy such as a driver’s license or a recent utility bill for your address, and photo inventory of your belongings.
You should have enough supplies to last for 72 hours.
For information on the sales tax holiday, visit www.myflorida.com/dor.