Every household will have different needs, but we have a great starter kit listed here.  (WE WILL LINK TO THE PREPAREDNESS PDF)

The City of Winter Haven has a variety of ways to ensure you are well informed. We have the Public Safety App, Access Winter Haven App, Facebook pages and this website. 
There are also a variety of outside sources to include NOAA Weather Radio, local TV/radio, emergency alert systems on cell phones.

Yes! It should outline how you'll communicate, where you'll meet, and what to do in different scenarios (e.g., evacuation, sheltering in place).

There are several steps you can take before a storm or disaster to make your home less likely to be damaged, including securing loose outdoor items, trimming trees, reinforcing windows, or elevating appliances in flood-prone areas, depending on the hazard.

Have a pet emergency kit (food, water, medications, leash, carrier, records), identify pet-friendly emergency shelters, and ensure your pets have proper identification.

The Polk County Office of Emergency Management maintains the Special Needs Shelter Program. Visit this website for more information.

Use flashlights instead of candles, unplug electronics to prevent surges, keep refrigerator/freezer doors closed, and have a battery-powered radio for updates.

Turn around, don't drown! Never drive or walk through floodwaters. It only takes a small amount of water to sweep away a vehicle, and floodwater may hide hazards like damaged roadways or ponds.

This is why a family communication plan is crucial. Designate an out-of-state contact person for everyone to check in with, as local phone lines may be overwhelmed. 

Wait for official clearance from emergency services. Roads may be damaged, utilities may be out, and hazards may still exist.

Contact your insurance company first. The City will provide information on how to report damage for potential state or federal assistance.

FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) may offer assistance in federally declared disaster areas. Check their website (DisasterAssistance.gov) or call their helpline.