TAMPA, Fla. — The first potential tropical system of the season in the Gulf of Mexico could form over the next couple days. While it doesn’t look like the storm will hit Florida directly, we could see some effects.
But residents in the Tampa Bay area are a mix when it comes to preparedness.
Dylan Adams of Tampa said he wants to get on top of his hurricane plan: “I don’t have my hurricane kit yet. It’s something I do need to take care of ASAP, because it’s that season.”
We spent an hour next to the hurricane station at a Lowe's store talking to customers. The majority didn't have hurricane kits.
Some, like Tim Cross, believe they have all the necessary items around their house: "I work construction so I am always having extra batteries, candles, flashlights, generator.”
But residents like Mark Thiem had a kit and a plan: “Of course! It’s all together, you live in Florida. You know, you have to.”
Another thing to consider, are you prepared to care for your furry friends? If you don’t have a good plan for you, chances are you don’t have a good one for them.
As Lauryn Postiglione from the Hillsborough County Pet Resource Center explained it's essential to think ahead so your pet is also safe: "So you want to make sure you have a seven day supply, for them, just like you would yourself. So food, water, any type of medication that they are on.
"Make sure to have a food and water bowl. Leashes collar blanket. Maybe their favorite toy. You want to make sure you have all that stuff, just in case.”
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