South Florida has been lucky dodging storms over the last decade, so with Tropical Storm Erika continuing on a path toward the state emergency management officials are starting preparations.
The message from the Miami-Dade Emergency Operation Center Wednesday is to be smart, start to gather the things you might need, but there is no reason to panic.
The head of the Emergency Operations Center hasn't opened the center yet but they are reaching out to municipalities, police, fire rescue, all the agencies on their list. They're going over what their rules and procedures are to protect the community.
"Miami-Dade Fire Rescue just wants to make sure that everybody is prepared. There is no reason to panic," spokeswoman Michelle Fayed. "We are not even sure if the storm is coming but now is a good time to start getting your family readiness plan in place."
The experts are closely watching Erika and Emergency Operations Center will ramp up later this week if its required. They have a laundry list to begin thinking about. It includes removing debris from your home, securing lawn furniture, testing out your generator, making sure you have fuel to run it and making sure your gas grill is ready to go.
Also make sure you have enough water, canned and dry foods, up to seven days worth of supplies and have a plan for your pets. Many gas stations and stores now have generators but Miami-Dade Fire Rescue says don't be complacent.
"While businesses in Miami-Dade have had improvements in generators and necessities that they need to operate after a storm, it's important your family have three to seven days of supplies and you are not able to leave your house," Fayed said.
