okeechobee pennysaver hurricane guide 2013

www.okeechobeepennysaver.com

Treasure Coast RecyclingWe Buy

AluminumCopper

BrassStainless Steel

Plus Much More!

Commercial Pick-Up AvailableRoll-O� Containers Available

Call For A Price Quote!

1811 NW 9th StreetOkeechobee, FL 34972

863-357-0011

3091 S.E. Waaler StreetStuart, FL 34997

772-288-6633

Two Locations to Serve You!

Locally Owned & Operated

“We Will Meet or Beat All Competitors Prices.”

“Habla Español”

Send Proof“We Sell Hurricane Panels!”

You’ve CalledThe Rest

Now Call The Best!

2013 Okeechobee Pennysaver Hurricane Guide

Neither the advertiser nor the publisher are responsible or liable for misinformation, misprints, typographical errors, etc. herein contained. All rights reserved.No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form, or by any means, without written permission from the publisher.

////////////////////////

N

Sta

te R

oad

441

State Road 70-East

NE 2nd Street

NE

2n

d A

ven

ue

State Road 70-West

PennysaverCottage

111

Pennysaver Location111 NE 2nd Street

Okeechobee(In Cottage One-Eleven-the little yellow house)

863-763-7283Phone

PublisherMaureen Budjinski

Editor/WriterRaye Deusinger

Art DirectorStephanie Leal

Office ManagerPatti Berglund

BookkeeperRose Brennan

Account Manager Gail Lockwood

DistributionLarry Sterling, Manager

Jessica Smith

Community preparedness and personal preparedness are equally essential. Pennysaver spoke to representatives from many venues affecting the community and its ability to withstand a hurricane. We thank them for their contributions.

The Area’s PremiumCommunity Paper

TABLE OF CONTENTSHurricane Season 2013 ...................................................... 5Hurricane Categories ......................................................... 5Hurricane Names ............................................................... 6Raulerson Hospital ............................................................ 8American Red Cross ........................................................... 8 Solid Waste Authority ........................................................ 9Hurricane Map ............................................................10,11Okeechobee Emergency Management ..............................12WOKC Local Radio ............................................................12Okeechobee County Animal Control .................................13Okeechobee County School District ..................................13Hurricane Insurance Tips .................................................15Home Preparation ............................................................16Personal Protection and Managing Your Health ................17During/After the Hurricane ...............................................17Waste Management .........................................................18Mechanical Prep For Your Vehicle .....................................19Preparing Your Motorhome ..............................................20Preparing Your Pool ..........................................................21Pet Friendly Lodging .........................................................21Pre-Post Storm Roadside Help ..........................................21Going To A Shelter ............................................................21Okeechobee County Shelters ............................................22

Gator Pools

Serving Okeechobee Area Since 1997

Licensed & Insured

For All Your Pool Needs Call

Monthly Pool Services

Hurricane Pool Clean Up

Pool Resurfacing

Liner Replacement

Pool Equipment Repair

& Replacement

Above Ground Pools

863-634-7883


2013 Okeechobee Pennysaver

Hurricane GuideThe 2013 Okeechobee PennySaver Hurricane Survival Guide is a comprehensive overview of what to do in the event a hurricane heads this way. 2012 marked the seventh con-secutive year a hurricane did not make landfall in Florida. However every storm is dangerous, so the better you are prepared the safer you will be. Please use these guide-lines which provide help and information and make a plan.

OKEECHOBEE COUNTY FORECAST as of April, ‘13: Research-ers Phil Klotzbach and William Gray have issued probability numbers for areas of Florida with the following forecasts for Okeechobee County and surrounding regions:

• Probability of Hurricane Impact in Florida 51.3%• Probability of Major Hurricane Impact in Florida 21%• Probability of 1 or more named storms making

landfall in Okeechobee region 2%• Probability of 1 or more hurricanes making landfall in

Okeechobee region 0.6%• Probability of 1 or more named storms hitting

Okeechobee County 1.4%• Probability of 1 or more Hurricanes making landfall in

Okeechobee County 0.2%

They reported that the 2012 Atlantic basin hurricane season will have enhanced activity compared with the 1981-2010 climatology. They anticipate an above-average probabil-ity for major hurricanes making landfall along the US coast-line and in the Caribbean. However, coastal residents are reminded that it only takes one hurricane making landfall to make it an active season for them, and they need to prepare the same for every season, regardless of how much activ-ity is predicted. Overall predictions are for 18 named storms, 9 hurricanes and 4 major hurricanes.

• Tropical Disturbance — an area of storms which keeps its struc-ture for at least 24 hours

• Tropical Depression — an organized storm system with a de-fined circulation and maximum sustained surface winds up to 38 miles per hour

• Tropical Storm — an organized storm system with a defined circulation and maximum sustained winds of 39 to 73 mph

• Hurricane — an intense organized storm with a well-defined circulation and maximum sustained winds of 74 mph or more

Strength of hurricanes is identified by categories.

• Category 1 storms are 74 to 95 mph




• Category 5 storms are winds greater than 155 mph.

Hurricane watches are issued when a storm may pose a threat to a designated area within 36 hours.

Hurricane warnings are issued when a storm is expected to hit within 24 hours.

Hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30. June/July and October/November hurricanes generally form in the Carib-bean, with the August/September hurricanes usually originat-ing off the west coast of Africa.

Hurricane Categories

Hurricane Season

Storm advisories are broadcast by four designations:


Hurricane Names The use of short, distinctive names for hurricanes is quicker and less subject to error than older latitude-longitude iden-tification. This is especially important in exchanging detailed storm information between hundreds of widely scattered sta-tions, coastal bases, and ships at sea. Having two or more trop-ical storms at the same time could cause confusion if they were not named. For several hundred years many hurricanes in the West In-dies were named after the particular saint’s day on which the hurricane occurred. For example, there was “Hurricane Santa Ana” which struck Puerto Rico on July 26, 1825, and “San Fe-lipe” (the first) and “San Felipe” (the second) which hit Puerto Rico on September 13 in both 1876 and 1928. It was Australian meteorologist Clement Wragge who began giving women’s names to tropical storms in the late 1800s. The United States began using female names for storms in 1953. In 1979 male and female names were included in lists for Atlantic storms.

> ANDREA

> BARRY

> CHANTAL

> DORIAN

> ERIN

> FERNAND

> GABRIELLE

The 2013 hurricane names > HUMBERTO

> INGRID

> JERRY

> KAREN

> LORENZO

> MELISSA

> NOEL

> OLGA,

> PABLO

> REBEKAH

> SEBASTIEN

> TANYA

> VAN

> WENDY

If more are needed, the Hurricane Center will use the Greek alphabet. The name Sandy is being retired from the list of tropical storm names because of the catastrophic damage its massive size and strength caused along the East Coast last year.

Mention This Ad Get 10% OFF Any Purchase

Mention This Ad Get 15% OF

Any Purchase

Okeechobee’s Oldest Pawn Shop Family Owned and Operated since 1975

BUY * SELL * TRADE HURRICANE SEASON IS HERE!

WHY BUY NEW. WHEN WE HAVE WHAT YOU MAY NEED IN USED.

WITH GREAT PRICES. 419 W. South Park St.

Okeechobee, FL 43972

863-763-5553

ELLIOTT’S

PAWN SHOP


— A Message From Robert Lee, Chief Executive Officer

Raulerson Hospital

Prior to any hurricane approaching the area, the staff atRaulerson Hospital takes Emergency Disaster Planning very se-riously. First of all and most importantly, please realize that the hospital is not a shelter. During a weather emergency or any other type of disaster, the Command Center at the Hospital is fullystaffedtoensuresafetyforallofthepatients,visitorsandstaff. Atthepresenttime,thehospitalispreparingforthecominghurricaneseasonbyincreasingitsfood,water,medicationandothersuppliesnecessarytocontinueindependentoperation.The hospital has a 750kw generator that can supply electric-itytotheentirefacility,abackupwatersupply,andadvancedcommunication equipment. The hospital is fully hurricane-shuttered, and hurricane-impact doors andwindows are in-stalled throughout the facility. The key to preparedness is plan-ning ahead to cover all possible emergencies that may occur and Raulerson is prepared.

1796 U.S. 441 Okeechobee, FL 34972

(863) 763-2151

Hurricanes are strong storms that can be life-threatening as well as cause serious property-threatening hazards such as flooding,stormsurge,highwindsandtornadoes.Preparationisthebestprotectionagainstthedangersofahurricane.TheAmerican Red Cross staff and volunteers work continuouslythroughout the region to ensure that residents are prepared andcommunitiesareresilient.TheRedCrosswillprovidereliefto those who have been impacted by disasters and will help residents to prevent, prepare for and respond to emergencies.

The Palm Beaches-Treasure Coast Region’s local Okeechobee Service Center is located at

323 N. Parrott Avenue.

Forinformationonsheltersandvolunteeropportunitieswiththe Red Cross, please feel free to call 863-763-2488.

American Red Cross Okeechobee Service Center

— A Message FromDisaster Specialist, Charles Parker

405 S.W. 2nd Street, Okeechobee

We specialize in wells, pumps, tanks and completewater systems. We carry generators, pitcher pumps,

solar pumping packages and windmills.

FILL YOUR WATER JUGS FOR 20¢ PER GALLON

let us help you get prepared!

AMERICANDrilling Services,Inc.

863-763-3221

Don’t be without water during Don’t be without water during this storm season, this storm season,

burton’s aluminum & concrete

235 Highway 441 SEOkeechobee, Florida 34974

Locally Owned and Operated Since 1987Licensed and Insured

Willis, Sherry, and Chris Burton

Hurricane Protection Wood DecksConcreteSheds

Fax 863-763-6631

Vinyl SidingAluminum Roofing

Recreational Storage

www.okeechobeepennysaver.com2013 Okeechobee Pennysaver Hurricane Guide Page 11

Dee’s Minor Repair & Pressure WashingLIC#5698 LIC#1126

“NO JOB TOO BIG OR SMALL”Painting, Minor Repair & More

4533 SE 23 CourtOkeechobee, FL 34974FREE ESTIMATES863-467-2917Drive Ways BuildingsMobile Homes

Email: [email protected]

Law Office OfGerald Lefebvre

1910 S. Parrott AVe.Okeechobee, FL

Se Habla Espanol~

763-3333

JUST CALL ME

“JERRY”Your Hometown Injury Attorney

JUST CALL ME

“JERRY”

accidentattorneyo�ce.comPhone Answerd 24/7

www.okeechobeepennysaver.com2013 Okeechobee Pennysaver Hurricane GuidePage 10

Dee’s Minor Repair & Pressure WashingLIC#5698 LIC#1126

“NO JOB TOO BIG OR SMALL”Painting, Minor Repair & More

4533 SE 23 CourtOkeechobee, FL 34974FREE ESTIMATES863-467-2917Drive Ways BuildingsMobile Homes

Email: [email protected]

Law Office OfGerald Lefebvre

1910 S. Parrott AVe.Okeechobee, FL

Se Habla Espanol~

763-3333

JUST CALL ME

“JERRY”Your Hometown Injury Attorney

JUST CALL ME

“JERRY”

accidentattorneyo�ce.comPhone Answerd 24/7


Local Radio WOKC — en Español, WAFC— A Message From General Manager, Wayne Cunningham

In the event of a storm, WOKC FM 100.9, WOKC AM 1570 and (Spanish) WAFC FM 106.1, are in constant contact with Okeechobee’s Emergency Operations Center, the National Hur-ricane Center and state and local officials. We will work around the clock to provide local residents with the important infor-mation they need. As soon as a storm is forecast, WOKC and WAFC will go into Emergency Broadcast Mode. We have the ability to switch to emergency power and remain on the air 24/7. Unlike coastal media, we are Okeechobee’s only local voice; we know this area and care about our local residents. Before the storm both stations will broadcast shelter loca-tions and evacuation routes and advise you on how to prepare your home and family, including pets. During the storm WOKC and WAFC will broadcast safety advice, continuous storm up-dates including force, wind speed and coordinates and news of what is happening in our community. When we are clear of danger we will tell you how our area has been affected, how to receive assistance and how people can volunteer to help oth-ers. Don’t wait for a storm before preparing. Now is the time to gather supplies, including a portable radio tuned to WOKC or WAFC.

— A Message From Director Mitch Smeykal

Okeechobee Emergency Management

If disaster strikes Okeechobee County we all need to be pre-pared. Disaster can strike at any time, with or without warn-ing. The Okeechobee County Emergency Management Office encourages all residents to take the time now to prepare them-selves and their families for the hazards we may face as a com-munity and state. In preparation, have a 72-hour supply of food and water for family and pets, medications, important papers etc. A com-plete supply list as well as other items related to disasters and emergencies can be found at www.okeechobeeeoc.com, www.FloridaDisaster.org and www.ready.gov. There are tools on these websites to assist you in building your family disaster plan. There are several new shutter products like hurricane fab-ric instead of traditional shutters. Residents can check FEMA.gov or Fl.Disaster.org for the latest recommended equipment. Emergency information will also be broadcast on local radio and television stations across the region. For radio information alerts tune to; WOKC-AM 1570, WOKC-FM 100.9 and WWFR-FM in Okeechobee, WQCS-FM in Fort Pierce, and WAFC-FM in

Clewiston. For television information alerts; WPTV News Ch. 5, WPBF Ch. 25 and WPEC News 12. Check with your local cable or satellite provider for channel location. We will also be tracking events and post updates on our Twitter feed and Facebook page. Updates will be posted to the website as time permits and conditions warrant. Each can be followed or viewed at @okeechobeeeoc on Twitter and Okeechobee Emergency Management on Facebook. New evacuation zones being discussed on area TV, so far, do not af-fect Okeechobee County. Any organization that would like to have a presentation by the Okeechobee County Emergency Management Of-fice concerning hurricanes, tornados, flooding, terrorism, hazardous materials or disaster preparedness in general should call Mitch Smeykal at (863) 763-3212x5001. All-Haz-ards Guides in English and Spanish are available at the EOC office, 707 NW 6th St. and at businesses throughout the county.


Okeechobee County School District

— A Message From Superintendent of Schools, Ken Kenworthy

Safety of our students is our number one priority any time during the year. Preparing for hurricane season is but one area in which Okeechobee County Schools stand ready to help not only our students but their families as well. The district Emer-gency Plan outlines preventative safety measures that school and district personnel follow on a day-to-day basis as well as when a storm is pending. In the event a storm is approaching, decisions for safe travel and school closings are made by the Superintendent of Schools after consultation with emergency management and law enforcement personnel. School buses must be pulled off the road when winds persist at 35 miles per hour. When a storm is imminent and schools must be closed, students and staff are notified via an automated calling system that reaches all telephone numbers in the school’s database. Getting students back in school after a storm is our main concern. The same automated calling system is used to no-tify students and staff when schools will reopen as well. It is very important that parents make sure the school has correct phone numbers so they can receive emergency messages. Once students are back to school, parents can return to work and our community regains a sense of normalcy and routine.

Okeechobee CountyAnimal Control

— A Message From Director, Gary Barber Before the storm arrives have a plan of action in place. Be aware that city and county ordinances require all cats, dogs and ferrets, over four months of age, to have a rabies vaccine. If you evacuate in a hurricane, do not leave your animal alone, either inside or outside your home. If you cannot take them, leave your pets with a responsible person. If you take your ani-mal with you, be sure to take a five-day food and water supply for each animal as well as utensils, bowls and litter bags, medi-cations, a picture of your animal and a cage for each pet. Place your name and phone number on all belongings with perma-nent marker. Before the storm, have your pet micro-chipped; vets generally check for chips in lost animals. Most shelters/motels will not accept a pet without proof of a current rabies vaccine. Take the time NOW to gather such proof and put it with your hurricane emergency kit should it be needed in the event of a storm. If your pet is not vaccinated, have it done as soon as possible. Advice about exotic pets is available from Sue Arnold at (863) 763-4630. For additional help and information, call Animal Control at (863) 357-3225 or visit www.hsus.org.


Are my policy limits high enough to cover the replacement cost of rebuilding my home? If your policy property limits are too low, as compared to the replacement cost value of your home, you could be subject to a sig-nificant coinsurance penalty if a loss occurs. Make sure that any additions or improve-ments that you have made to your home are included in the value of your home as shown in the policy dollar limits for your home. In today’s economy, the cost to replace your home is very likely to exceed the market val-ue of your home.

Should I consider placing Flood Insurance on my home? Even if you are not in a Flood Zone, you could be subject to flooding. Often times, storm sewers will plug with debris; critical storm sewer pumps will fail; or, in Okeechobee, the dike could fail and lead to flooding in places that never flooded before. If you are not in a hazardous Flood Zone, the insurance is rela-tively inexpensive. Remember, your Home-owners Policy does not cover flood losses.

Do I need to have Ordinance of Law Cover-age? This coverage is often misunderstood and many times homeowners are not even aware of this endorsement. As building codes change over the years, it is common

You could “Kick Yourself” if you fail to “Ask Yourself” these

Hurricane Insurance Questions Now!! Contributed by Lowell Pritchard

for homes to be lacking in regards to the lat-est building codes. The last major building code changes were made in 2002 and if you have a home that is older than that, you will certainly do yourself a favor in checking out this coverage. What about my personal property? Remember that certain items such as guns, securities, money, antiques, jewelry, fine arts etc. have little or no coverage on a home-owner policy without a special endorsement covering their value. It is wise to inventory and video your personal belongings.

Do not wait!Remember, once a hurricane enters a pre-scribed longitude and latitude specified by your insurance company, all binding (writing) of property insurance is on hold until after the threat passes. Sometimes that can be as much a week or more before the hurricane actually makes landfall. Flood insurance takes 30 days to bind coverage from the date the application is signed. It is critical to your financial well-being, as well as your physical well-being, that you plan ahead for the next hurricane.

Wishing you and your family a safe and secure hurricane

season, Lowell Pritchard, General Lines Agent – President,

Pritchards and Associates, Inc., 863-763-7711.


Preparation Equals SafetyWhat To Do As a Hurricane Nears

Prepare for at least three days’ needs

• Water — Sterilize your bathtub, pans, jugs and bottles with a 1:10 bleach solution, then fill them with water. Wait for of-ficial word before resuming use of your water system after the storm. If you must evacuate your home, turn off the water sup-ply before leaving to avoid damage from burst pipes; unplug your water heater and turn off your automatic sprinkler sys-tem.• First Aid — Assemble bandages, adhesive tape, antiseptic, alcohol and other articles that might be needed in an emer-gency. Also include toilet paper and sanitary supplies.• Food Supply — Stock any canned foods that can be eaten without heating, non-refrigerated carton milk, cereals, energy bars, a manual can opener and canned heat or a propane stove for cooking. Prior to the storm’s arrival, turn freezer and re-frigerator controls to the highest level. Have a cooler with ice packs for emergencies. Have food and supplies for infants.• Lighting — Stock candles, lamps, flashlights or lanterns and the batteries, propane, kerosene, matches or other means to power them.• Cleaning — Have a supply of cloths, towels and mops to ab-sorb rain-driven water and to use at windows and doors.• Communication — Have a portable radio, a car charger for your cell phone or personal electronic device and, if you don’t have a cell phone, at least one corded phone as cordless phones won’t work if electricity is out. Have several flashlights.• Outdoor Prep — Take down antennas and awnings, take in garbage cans, portable outdoor storage units, potted plants, garden tools and lawn furniture. No tree trimming is allowed once an alert is issued. Put up shutters or other cover such as plywood, on windows and doors. Putting tape on windows serves no purpose.

Home Preparation

• Transportation — Be sure your car is fully operational. Check and fill tires, and keep the gas tank full as gas pumps won’t work without electricity.• Generators — Generators must never be used indoors, in attached garages or next to air-intake windows because they emit carbon monoxide, a deadly colorless, odorless and taste-less poison gas. Use only in a well-ventilated, dry area outside the home. Check instructions issued with your generator as to its capacity to power appliances. Do not store fuel indoors. Never refuel a generator while it is operating; allow it to cool down before refueling. Keep a fire extinguisher nearby. When operating a fire extinguisher, always point it at the base of the flames, not at the flame itself.

Mobile Homes

The main objective of mobile home residents is to seek shel-ter elsewhere if a hurricane or tornado warning has been given. Follow the preparation instructions for regular hous-ing. Disconnect or close your electric, gas, sewer and water lines. Leave water faucets open so they can drain. Check your tie-downs. Mobile homes are extremely vulnerable to strong winds. If your mobile home does not have tie-downs, get them installed immediately. Assemble a list of important phone numbers, including an out-of-town contact to which all family members can report; make sure everyone is aware of this contact number. Make a “sur-vival box” with copies of important papers (auto registration, licenses, address book, credit cards, personal identification, insurance policies and the phone number of your agent), med-icines and a seven-day supply of cash (ATM machines won’t work without electricity). Include spare phone, hearing aid and wheelchair batteries, eyeglasses and extra car keys. Don’t go outside until an all-clear is given. Have medical alert tags or bracelets to identify your disabled-related need. Do not sight-see as this can interfere with rescue services or medical emer-gencies. Downed power lines are common; high water can conceal potholes, lakes and canal edges. Stay indoors. Hurricanes are circular storms with a calm hole in the center, known as the eye. Winds in the approach-ing storm blow from one direction. As the eye passes over, the winds then blow from the opposite direction. Wind and rain may stop for as little as a few minutes or as long as a half hour or more as the eye passes over. The “backside” winds are fre-quently of greater force than before.


Iftheelectricitygoesoff,useflashlightsinsteadofcandlesorkerosenelampswhenpossible.Neveruseabarbecuegrillin-doors,andbecarefulwithcookingflames.Useyourtelephoneforemergenciesonly.Continuetoconserverefrigeration;openthe refrigerator/freezer door as little as possible. Listen totelevisionorlocalradioforupdates.

Be aware that information about Okeechobee is infrequent on coastal stations. Local information is best found on 100.9 WOKC FM or 1570 WOKC AM. Locateandmarktheseonyourradiodialforquickreference.Remainindoorsuntiltheofficialall-clearisgiven.

After thehurricanehaspassedand it’s safe togooutside,don’ttouchlooseordanglingwires.Don’tstepinpoolsofwa-terwheresuchwiresmaybegrounded.Don’ttouchtrees incontactwithdownedpowerlines.Stayawayfromareasthathave been hit hard by the storm; sightseers are an interfer-enceforrescueworkers.Inventorydamagetoyourownprop-erty.Reportfallenwiresandbrokenwaterandgaslinestotheproperauthorities,aswellastoyourinsurancecompany.Forwater,calltheOkeechobeeUtilityAuthorityat(863)763-9460;forelectric,callFPLat(800)226-354;forgas,callCentralGasat(863)763-3915,Ferrellgasat(863)763-7557orGladesGasat(863)763-2114.

Personal Protection During the Hurricane

After The Hurricane

Beforeahurricanestrikes,PREPARE.Whenputtingtogetheranemergencykit forhurricaneseasondonotoverlookyourhealthcareneeds,especiallyifyourelyondailymedications,medical equipment or supplies. According to the AmericanRedCross,thiskitshouldincludeaseven-daysupplyofmedi-cation.Thisisespeciallytrueforthosewithheartconditionsordiabetes.Ifyouwearahearingaidmakesuretohaveextrabatteries. It isalsoagood idea tohaveasparepairofeye-glassesandadditionalsuppliessuchascathetersorsyringes.Includeinyourkitrubbingalcohol,antacid,aspirin,non-aspirinpainrelieverandeveryday-needssuchasbandaidsanddisin-fectants. Gatheracopyofyourmedicalprescriptions,doctor’sordersandthestyleandserialnumberofsupportdevices.Amedicalalertbraceletorawrittendescriptionofyourmedicalneeds,aremusthaves if youareunable tocommunicate. Includealistofphonenumbers for insuranceandmedical contacts, ahealthhistoryandalistofallergiestomedications.Ifyouneedanyassistanceensuring yourhealthbeforeor after a storm,OkeechobeeDiscountDrugswillbegladtohelp.Visitusat203S.W.ParkStreetoronthewebatwww.okeedrug.com.

Managing Your Health During A Hurricane

— Contributed by Okeechobee Discount Drugs

Stayindoors.Hurricanesarecircularstormswithacalmholeinthecenter,knownastheeye.Windsintheapproachingstormblow fromone direction. As the eye passes over, thewindsthenblowfromtheoppositedirection.Windandrainmaystopforaslittleasafewminutesoraslongasahalfhourormoreastheeyepassesover.The“backside”windsarefrequentlyofgreaterforcethanbefore.Iftheelectricitygoesoff,useflash-lights instead of candles or kerosene lamps when possible.Neveruseabarbecuegrillindoors,andbecarefulwithcookingflames.Useyourtelephoneforemergenciesonly.Continuetoconserve refrigeration;open the refrigerator/freezerdooraslittleaspossible.Listentotelevisionorlocalradioforupdates.Be aware that information about Okeechobee is infrequent on coastal stations.Local informationisbestfoundon100.9WOKCFMor1570WOKCAM.Locateandmarktheseonyourradiodialforquickreference.Remainindoorsuntiltheofficialall-clearisgiven.

Afterthehurricanehaspassedandit’ssafetogooutside,don’ttouch loose or dangling wires. Don’t step in pools of waterwheresuchwiresmaybegrounded.Don’ttouchtreesincon-tactwithdownedpowerlines.Stayawayfromareasthathavebeenhithardbythestorm;sightseersareaninterferenceforrescueworkers.Inventory damage to your own property.Reportfallenwiresandbrokenwaterandgaslinestotheprop-erauthorities,aswellastoyourinsurancecompany.Forwa-ter, call theOkeechobeeUtilityAuthorityat (863)763-9460;forelectric,callFPLat(800)226-354;forgas,callCentralGasat(863)763-3915,Ferrellgasat(863)763-7557orGladesGasat(863)763-2114.


Before the storm: Do yard trimming before the storm season; none will be collected once there is a named storm with a pre-dicted Florida landfall.

After the storm: The Okeechobee Board of County Com-missioners will select a storm debris collection contractor. Okeechobee County and Okeechobee County Emergency Man-agement will provide regular updates on storm-related mat-ters and debris collection in the local newspapers and other media outlets.Waste Management will resume regular household garbage

collection services as soon as it is deemed safe to do so. Do not mix waste types. Keep the following separate: yard trash, household trash, furniture, appliances and construction and demolition debris.Do not place any debris on or near fences, mailboxes, power

lines, power poles, water meters, phone boxes or under low-hanging trees. All debris must be placed on the nearest county maintained right-of-way (in front of a home) for collection.The Okeechobee Landfill will also be open as soon as it is safe

to operate. Residents can always bring their waste to the land-fill if they wish to dispose of it immediately. Normal gate rates apply.

WASTE MANAGEMENT

Oil Change - Batteries for Everything - Brake Jobs - AC WorkBug Shields - Truck Accessories - Fuel Pumps - Tool Boxes & More

New & Used Tires For:All Farm Equipment

Truck - Car - LawnmowerTractor & Loader Tires

24 Hour Mobile Repair Services772-201-1594

3 Service Trucks Available

Located at 198 US 98 N. 863-357-2431

BATTERY TIREOF OKEECHOBEE

Home of Honest, Reliable Service

Servicing & InstallingAlignments on Cars & Pick-ups

Visit Our Website www.slbatterytire.com

Make

$$ Th

is Hurr

icane

Seaso

n HIGHEST PRICE$ PAID ONSCRAP METAL ANDJUNK CARSTIN · IRON · ALUMINUM · COPPERBRASS · APPLIANCESSTAINLESS STEEL · BATTERIES

FREE ROLLOFF CONTAINER SERVICEUsed Auto and TruckParts for All Makesand Models with Warranty

Se HablaEspanol

1252 NW36th Street

Okeechobee 863.763.3211


Your vehicle is an important part of hurricane preparedness, not just a “last-minute escape”. Having a trusted service center is an important consideration. Decide before a storm, on the provider you believe will best care for your vehicle and place his/her business card or phone number in your glove box.

MECHANICAL PREP FOR YOUR VEHICLE—Contributed by Hi-Tek Automotive

DURING AND AFTER THE STORMWatch for downed power lines and tree debris as both can

conceal dangers when entering and exiting a vehicle.

Do not drive through any standing water. There are many ca-nals and roadside ditches in the Okeechobee area which bor-der our roads. Road edges may not be well defined.

Stay tuned to local radio for evacuation directions as some roads may be closed.

BEFORE THE STORMToday’s vehicles have many electrical as well as mechanical

components. Be sure these are working properly with a pre-storm check up. Check fluid levels and tires and be sure these are maintained

throughout the storm season. Make sure your spare tire and jack is iMaintain a half tank of gas at all times during the storm season so you are ready for emergency evacuationTake time now to stock your car with an emergency kit con-

taining basic first-aid supplies, water, raingear, gloves, a tire inflation kit and snacks.

self storagebudget/quick n’ easy

4619 Hwy. 441 SEOkeechobee, FL

Family Owned & Operated

863-763-2232

Serving Okeechobee Since 1982

Fenced, Well Lit Safe, Secure, Boat & RV Storage

ExterminatedResident Management

Climate Controlled UnitsLarge Units Available

$$$ Referral ProgramPolice, Fire &

Military Discounts

Packing & Moving Supplies

We Sell Boxes

Best PricesIn Town

Prepare ForHurricaneSeason

70

Tayl

or C

reek

Hwy 441

710

15A

Vicki S. AndersonLicensed Real Estate Broker

Cell: 863-634-4106Fax: 863-467-7822

[email protected]

Anderson Realty Co.21442 E. SR 78, BHR

Okeechobee, Florida 34974

The REALTOR® inOkeechobee your

family can trust to bethere for you!

The REALTOR® in Okeechobee yourfamily can trust to be there for you!

Okeechobee, Florida 3497421442 E. SR 78, BHR

[email protected]

Fax: 863-467-7822Licensed Real Estate Broker

Hi-Tek Automotive will be glad to assist with

all of these pre-storm checks. 863-357-1717


Local residents of Okeechobee know we have been hurricane free for eight years. For many of us the scars and memo-ries of Francis, Jean and others still remain yet we often do not take our hurricane season seriously. If you are fortunate enough to own a motorhome you can enjoy a greater level of preparedness than other residents IF you take steps now. Preparing for a storm is not difficult and will greatly add to your comfort and safety if a storm does come. Whether you decide to evacuate or stay in the area, having a mo-torhome will allow you and your family many options in-cluding a dry roof over your head. In the current eco-nomic environment many motor homes see little or no use.

Therefore:

Preparing Your MotorhomeContributed by

Jeff Sirum of Alex Sirum GMC Motorhomes

1. Fill up with fresh gas and an additive, like Stabil, to reduce the chance of a fuel- related problem.

2. Check and top off all fluids: oil, transmission and brake fluid, antifreeze, windshield washer fluid, etc. 3. Check or fill the propane tank. 4. Examine and properly inflate all tires including the spare.

5. Flush and refill the fresh water tank. Verify that the water pump works without being hooked to the city water pressure hose. 6. Drain holding tanks. 7. Test run all interior appliances, especially the roof AC, stove and refrigerator. If the power is out, these will become your best friend.

8. Test run the electric generator. Having the power generator in good condition will mean electricity when needed.

9. Check all batteries. The coach (house) batteries become very im-portant if you must become self-contained for an extended period.

10 Test drive the Motorhome for at least 20-25 miles (sometimes problems don’t show themselves until the unit is well warmed up). 11. A well stocked Motorhome should include all the items recom-mended by the local Emergency Operations Center as well as any personal items to keep you comfortable before, during and after a storm.

If you prefer, bring your Motorhome to Alex Sirum GMC Motorhomes and let us

assure its safety and reliability. 863-763-1121 Gayle MolyneauxIndependent Beauty Consultantwww.marykay.com/gaylemolyneaux561-801-1336


Your pool is a big investment, protect it:• Do not drain or lower the water level. If the ground

around the pool gets saturated, the shell could pop up out of the ground (even concrete pools). The water provides the weight to keep it in place.

• If they are not secure in high winds, have a professional remove diving boards or slides

• .If.the.motor.is.exposed.and.you.live.in.a.flood.zone,.re. . move and store it; if not, wrap with a waterproof cover.

• .Remove.and.store.automatic.pool.cleaners,.blankets. and covers.

• Super chlorinate or double chemicals normally used to . reduce.contamination.and.insect.infestation.

• .Stock.up.on.chemicals.to.‘shock’.pool.after.the.storm;. .stores.may.not.be.open.after.the.storm.

• Do.not.use.the.pool.to.store.yard.articles.as.they.may. . harm.the.finish • Call Gator Pools for further storm advice and help.

863-634-7883

Preparing Your Pool—Contributed by

Gator Pools Of Okeechobee, Inc.

If you choose to go to a shelter or must evacuate, take with you.identification.and.insurance.papers,.chairs,.blankets,.food,.snacks and water, medical supplies, games for the children, change.of.clothes,.flashlight,. infant.needs.and.your.“survival.kit”.(see.“personal.protection,”.page.17.)..Do.not.bring.pets,.alcoholic beverages, tobacco products, weapons or valuables to a shelter. Decide on and drive by a shelter well in advance of a storm so you.will.be.familiar.with.its.location..Shelter.space.is.often.lim-ited, so have a second site in mind in case the one you plan to use.fills..Only.two.shelters.will.be.opened.with.an.announced.storm; others will be opened on an as-needed basis. . .If.you.are.disabled.or.have.a.serious.medical.condition,.you.are.eligible.for.special.help,.including.transportation.to.a.shel-ter. However, prior to the storm you must make arrangements with. the. Okeechobee. County. Health. Department. by. calling.(863).462-5819...Let.a.friend.or.relative.know.which.shelter.you.will be using. Pets will not be allowed in the shelter. . .Many.of.the.school.district.facilities.are.used.as.shelters...It.is.expected that those going to a shelter bring enough food and water for three days along with appropriate bedding. Depend-ing.on.the.duration.of.the.storm.and.availability.of.food,.snacks.may be provided by the school food service only while supplies last. The shelter is not a motel or a restaurant; the shelter is a lifeboat.

Pet--Friendly LodgingIf you cannot remain in your home during a storm, several local motels accept animals. Due to limited availability, it is necessary to call ahead and reserve space. Don’t wait un-til.the.last.minute...Some.may have a pet charge or deposit.

The following are pet-friendly:

Budget.Inn,($15).201.S..Parrott.Ave.,.(863).763-3185

Economy.Inn,.($10).507.N..Parrott.Ave.,.(863).763-1148

Flamingo Motel, (dogs only) ($10) 4101 Hwy. 441 S, (863) 763-6100

Lakeport Motel, ($10) 11700 Hwy. 78W, (863) 946-2020

Lakeview Inn & Suites, ($5) 3225 Hwy. 441 SE, (863) 763-1020

PIER II, ($5) 2200 Hwy 441 SE, 863-623-4704

Rimcanal Motel, 1422 Hwy. 441 SE, (863) 467-2737

Travelodge Suites, ($10)1527 Hwy. 441 SE, (863) 824-3431

Pre and Post Storm Roadside Help

Contributed by Total Roadside Service . .As.you.ready.your.house,.yard.and.supplies.for.a.hurricane,.don’t.forget.to.‘ready’.your.transportation,.whether.it.is.a.car,.truck,.RV,.motor.home.or.even.farm.vehicle...As.seen.with.the.recent. tornados. in.Oklahoma,. preparation. is. the. key. to. sur-vival.. .We.urge.you.to.have.the.mechanical.condition.of.these.ve-hicles ready for you and your family. Have a pre-storm checkup at a full-service facility like Total Roadside Service, which has technicians to not only work on any vehicle, but carry every kind.of.tire.they.use...Tires.are.our.specialty...We.will.check.and.evaluate.your.spare.as.well.as.make.sure.all.tires.have.enough.tread.and.are.properly.inflated.. .Once.hurricane-ready,.be.sure.to.maintain.checkups.through-out the hurricane season. Keep the gas tank half full at all times...Stock.your.car.with.emergency.supplies.such.as.safety.flashers,.jumper.cables,.tire.inflation.kits.and.an.assortment.of.snacks in the event of a roadside emergency. . .Check.your.vehicle’s.radio.and.your.communication.devices.so if you have to call for help, you will be able to do so. For safety sake, once a storm reaches 75 mph, we will not be able to.get.on.the.road...But.at.any.time.before.that.level,.we.are.available to help you prepare as we are on call 24/7. Stop by and see how we can help you. We are located at 3176 Hwy 710 E, 357-8772.

Going to a Shelter


Osceola Middle School825 SW 28th St.

capacity 650WILL OPEN FIRST

South Elementary School2468 SW Seventh Ave.

capacity 500WILL OPEN SECOND

The following shelters will open only as needed: All residents should check the Okeechobee County Emergency Management website to ensure a

shelter is open BEFORE they proceed to a shelter.

North CountyFort Drum Community Church32415 Hwy. 441 N., capacity 80

Okeechobee High School2800 Hwy. 441 N., capacity 2,000

Seminole Elementary School2690 NW 42nd Ave., capacity 700

Yearling Middle School925 NW 23rd Lane, capacity 700

North Elementary School3000 NW Tenth Terr., capacity 500Okeechobee Health Department1728 NW Ninth Ave., capacity 50

(medical needs shelter) Prior registration is suggested

SE SectionAmerican Legion Post 64

501 SE Second St., capacity 200Everglades Elementary School

3725 SE Eighth St., capacity 700

SW SectionFirst Baptist Church

401 SW Fourth St., capacity 65Freshman Center auditorium

610 SW Second Ave., capacity 660Sacred Heart Catholic Church 701 SW Sixth St., capacity 500

New Endeavor High School575 SW 29th St., capacity 500

Okeechobee CountyShelters

For Your Motorhome Needs863-763-1121 1800 HWY 70 East Okeechobee, Fl 34972

Alex SirumGMC Motorhomes, Inc.

www.gmcmh.com

Full service motorhome shop. Family owned and operated. Serving Okeechobee over 30 years.Extensive fully stocked RV parts and accessories store. With nearly 20,000 sq. ft. under roof service facility.

We service most brands of RV’s motorhomes and pull trailers.We ship daily domestic and internationally.

We have several employees well trained at locating hard to find parts.We ship: UPS, Fedex, USPS, Roadways, RL Gator, Yellow and others.

We install and sell tow car hook ups and brake systems.We service and repair most horse trailer including w/living quarters.

We are a repair shop for Onan, Honda and Generac generators.We are a Zip-Dee awning, Stowmaster, Firestone and GMC Motorhome dealer.

We have been dedicated to Sales service and repair of RV’S for almost 30 years.We manufacture dozens of critical parts utilizing local machine shops and factories.

Striving to sell as many as possible “Made in America” parts.By supporting the RV industry you are preserving an industry built by

American workers for American families now and in the future.

We service most brands of motorhomes, or help redirect you to someone who can.

24HREMERGENCY

SERVICE!863-634-6859

863-357-8772Tires • Shocks Brakes • A/C Repairs Alignments Welding • Trailer Repair

Diesel & Gasoline Engine Repair Mobile Oil & Lube PM ServiceAnnual D.O.T. Inspections

OKEECHOBEE

LAY-A-WAY AVAILABLELittle Down - Little Each Month!

How Safe is Your Rubber?Tires, Wheels & All Types of Mechanical Repairs

www.totalroadsideservices.com

ALWAYS THE BEST PRICES ON TIRES & WHEELS3176 Hwy 710 East - Okeechobee

InsuredLicensed

$49.95 AlignmentCovers Light Duty Vehicles Only

In House Financing!Come In and apply for your

Total Roadside Card.6 Months/Same as Cash

SUMITOMO

okeechobee pennysaver hurricane guide 2013

Documents

hurricane panels

hurricane categories

hurricane names

hurricane map

hurricane insurance

avenuestate road

nstate road

ok county shelters