Stay prepared and protect your home and loved ones during the hurricane season (June 1 – November 30). This checklist is tailored for residents of Halifax Plantation, Plantation Bay, and surrounding areas.

Essential Supplies

• Water: 1 gallon per person per day for at least 7 days

• Non-perishable food: 7-day supply

• Manual can opener

• Battery-powered or hand-crank radio

• Flashlights and extra batteries

• First aid kit

• Medications and medical supplies

• Personal hygiene items

• Important documents: IDs, insurance policies, medical records (stored in a waterproof container)

• Cash: Small denominations

• Cell phone with chargers and backup batteries

• Pet supplies: Food, water, medications, leash, carrier

• Tools: Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities

• Local maps

• Whistle: To signal for help

Home Preparation

• Secure outdoor items: Patio furniture, garbage cans, decorations

• Install storm shutters or board up windows

• Trim trees and shrubs: To prevent damage from broken branches

• Check roof and gutters: Ensure they are secure and clear of debris

• Test generator: Ensure it's operational and you have fuel

• Fill gas tanks: Vehicles and generators

• Charge electronic devices

• Review insurance policies: Understand your coverage (Click here to see my vendor list for insurance companies)

2026 Florida Disaster Preparedness Sales Tax Holidays

Florida HB 7031: Save on Hurricane Prep Supplies
Florida House Bill 7031 (2025) helps make hurricane preparation more affordable by continuing and expanding sales tax holidays on essential storm supplies. During these designated periods, many everyday preparedness items can be purchased tax-free.

Common qualifying items include:

• Batteries, flashlights, and portable radios

• Generators and fuel containers

• Tarps, tie-down kits, and waterproof materials

• Coolers and ice packs

For homeowners in coastal areas like Ormond Beach and across Volusia County, taking advantage of these tax-free windows is a simple way to prepare your home without added cost.

As always, dates and eligible items can vary each year, so check current Florida announcements before shopping.

Local Tip: Preparing your home isn’t just about safety, it also helps protect your property value. If you have questions about storm readiness, insurance considerations, or protecting your investment, feel free to reach out anytime.

Eligible items include:

• Portable generators: Priced $3,000 or less

• Re-usable ice packs: Priced $20 or less

• Batteries: AA-cell, AAA-cell, C-cell, D-cell, 6-volt, or 9-volt; priced $50 or less

• Coolers and ice chests: Priced $60 or less

• Tarps and other flexible waterproof sheeting: Priced $100 or less

• Smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire extinguishers: Priced $70 or less

For a complete list of eligible items, visit the Florida Dept. of Revenue

Local Resources

• Volusia County Emergency Management: volusia.org/emergency

• Flagler County Emergency Management: flaglercounty.gov/emergency

• Florida Division of Emergency Management: floridadisaster.org

For personalized assistance or more information, feel free to contact me or schedule a consultation.

Stay safe and prepared!

Note: The information provided is based on the latest available data as of March 2026. Always refer to official sources for the most current information.