Hurricane Season Checklist 2021: What Floridians Need to Prepare

Hurricane season starts June 1st so it's important to stock up on all the essential items necessary to stay safe during a storm.

The last three years have seen four hurricanes make landfall in Florida and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is predicting an "above-normal" 2021 Atlantic hurricane season, with 13-20 named storms expected.

Local officials are warning residents need to be ready as the hurricane season begins. NBC 6's Paxton Boyd reports

Because of the unexpected nature of these storms, Floridians are encouraged to have at least seven days worth of supplies on hand.

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Before hurricane season begins, it is important to gather the following supplies and store them in your home. Be sure to include items that will be necessary during a pandemic.

Should you need to go to an evacuation center, pack as many items as possible into an easy-to carry waterproof container such as a backpack or duffle bag, but keep in mind the 20-square-foot space limitation. Here are some key items to pack:

At least one gallon of water per day, per person for three to seven days
Non-perishable snacks and packaged or canned food for at least three to seven days
Manual can opener
Change of clothing, rain gear and sturdy shoes
Bedding for a small space
Prescription medications
Personal hygiene items
Special items such as food for infants, elderly or disabled family members
Garbage bags
First-aid kit
Fully charged portable electronic devices with charger
Quiet games, toys or reading materials
Eyeglasses, contact lenses, hearing aid with extra batteries
Pet care items, including food and water
Flashlight, battery-powered radio and batteries
Extra set of car keys
Cash
Important documents in a waterproof container or bag
Face coverings for every member of your household
Hand sanitizer