Monthly Business Newsletter
Okeechobee County
Preparing for hurricanes is crucial for businesses in Okeechobee County. With the potential for severe weather during hurricane season, proactive planning can minimize damage and ensure business continuity. Essential steps include assessing risks, developing a comprehensive emergency plan, securing your premises, and training your team. Having a well-thought-out hurricane preparedness strategy not only protects your assets but also ensures the safety of your employees and customers. By staying informed and prepared, you can weather the storm and recover more quickly. Here’s a guide to help you prepare:
Assess Risks
Identify potential impacts of hurricanes on your business location.
Consider risks like flooding, wind damage, and power outages.
Develop a Plan
Communication: Establish emergency communication channels for employees, customers, and suppliers.
Evacuation Routes: Clearly mark emergency exits and safe assembly points.
Emergency Contacts: Compile a list of essential contacts, including local emergency services.
Prepare Your Business
Insurance: Review and update your insurance policies to cover hurricane-related damages.
Data Backup: Ensure critical business data is backed up and securely stored.
Supplies: Stock up on emergency supplies like first aid kits, flashlights, batteries, and non-perishable food.
Train Your Team
Conduct regular emergency drills focusing on hurricane scenarios.
Assign specific roles and responsibilities to employees during an emergency. Provide training on first aid and emergency response procedures.
Stay Informed
Monitor weather updates and emergency alerts from trusted sources.
Stay in contact with local authorities and community organizations.
Recovery Plan
Develop a business continuity plan to resume operations quickly post-hurricane. Document all damages and expenses for insurance claims.
By preparing in advance, you can mitigate the impact of hurricanes on your business and ensure a faster recovery. Stay safe and proactive!
For more resources and detailed guides, visit the Okeechobee County website for Emergency Management at https://www.okeechobeecountyfl.gov/departments/public-safety/emergency-management.
BE PREPARED FOR DISASTERS: ESSENTIAL INFORMATION FOR OKEECHOBEE COUNTY BUSINESSES
In Okeechobee County, hurricanes are the most talked-about potential disaster. However, our Emergency Management team also provides crucial information and awareness on wildfires, severe weather, and hazardous material incidents. We urge all residents and businesses to be prepared for any emergency by having a solid plan in place.
Key Terms to Know
The National Hurricane Center issues watches and warnings to alert the public of potential and expected conditions. Here are the terms you need to be familiar with:
Tropical Storm Watch: Issued when tropical storm conditions (sustained winds of 39 to 73 mph) are possible within a specified coastal area within 48 hours.
Tropical Storm Warning: Issued when tropical storm conditions (sustained winds of 39 to 73 mph) are expected within a specified coastal area within 36 hours.
Hurricane Watch: Issued when hurricane conditions (sustained winds of 74 mph or higher) are possible within a specified coastal area. This watch is issued 48 hours in advance of the anticipated onset of tropical-storm-force winds to allow for preparation.
Hurricane Warning: Issued when hurricane conditions (sustained winds of 74 mph or higher) are expected within a specified coastal area. This warning is issued 36 hours in advance of the anticipated onset of tropical-storm-force winds.
Stay Informed
In the event of an emergency, information will be broadcast on local radio and television stations. Tune into the following stations for updates:
Radio:
WOKC-FM 100.9
WOKC-AM 1570
WWFR-FM 91.7 in Okeechobee
WQCS-FM 88.9 in Fort Pierce
WAFC-FM 100.5 in Clewiston
Television:
Channels 5, 12, and 25 from West Palm Beach
Local cable station
By staying informed and prepared, we can ensure the safety and resilience of our community. Make sure your business has an emergency plan in place and stay tuned to local media for the latest updates.
Okeechobee Emergency Alert Program
Get alerted about emergencies and other important community news by signing up for our Okeechobee Emergency Alert Program. This system allows us to provide you with critical information quickly for a variety of situations. These situations could be for severe weather, unexpected road closures, missing persons, as well as evacuations of buildings or neighborhoods. You will receive time-sensitive messages wherever you specify, such as your home, mobile or business phones, email address, text messages and more. The best part is that you pick where and you pick how you want to be notified. Signing up is free and the information you provide will be kept confidential. To register for a new account or update your information follow this link: https://member.everbridge.net/892807736724788/login
Okeechobee County Shelter List
https://www.okeechobeecountyfl.gov/departments/public-safety/emergency-management/okeechobee-countyshelter-list
Okeechobee County Emergency Management Department
Phone: (863) 763-3212
Community Information Line
Phone: (863) 824-6888
FIREWORK SAFETY TIPS FOR CELEBRATING AT HOME
As we celebrate special occasions with fireworks at home, it’s important to prioritize safety to ensure a fun and accident-free experience. Here are some essential tips to keep in mind:
1. Choose a Safe Location
Select an open area away from buildings, vehicles, dry grass, and other flammable materials. Ensure the launch site is clear of obstructions and has a solid, flat surface.
2. Read the Instructions
Before lighting any fireworks, carefully read the instructions on each one. Different fireworks have different handling and safety requirements.
3. Keep Water Nearby
Always have a bucket of water, a hose, or a fire extinguisher close by in case of emergencies. After the fireworks have been used, soak them in water before disposal to prevent any accidental fires.
4. Light One at a Time
Light fireworks one at a time and then quickly move away to a safe distance. This minimizes the risk of multiple fireworks going off unexpectedly.
5. Never Relight Duds
If a firework fails to ignite, don’t attempt to relight it. Wait at least 20 minutes, then soak it in water before properly disposing of it.
6. Supervise Children
Children should never be allowed to handle fireworks. Ensure they are kept at a safe distance and are always under adult supervision.
7. Use Protective Gear
Wearing safety glasses can protect your eyes from sparks and debris. It’s a simple precaution that can prevent serious injuries.
8. Avoid Alcohol
Save the alcohol for after the fireworks are done. Staying sober ensures you can handle fireworks responsibly and react quickly if something goes wrong.
9. Respect Your Neighbors
Fireworks can be noisy and disruptive. Be considerate of your neighbors, particularly those with pets, small children, or those who may be sensitive to loud noises.
10. Clean Up Properly
Once the fun is over, clean up the area. Make sure all used fireworks are soaked in water and disposed of properly to prevent any residual fires.
By following these tips, you can enjoy a safe and spectacular home fireworks display. Celebrate responsibly and make safety your priority!
Happy Celebrating!
