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Hurricane season can last throughout six months of the year, July through November. Typically the heaviest storms will usually occur during August. For the most part, hurricanes have not been too severe, however, when they are big storms they hit really hard like hurricane Katrina did. Florida seems to get the most hurricanes out of all of the states and Miami can get hit the hardest since it is right off of the Atlantic ocean. Yet, the residents have learned to be prepared and know how to survive through some of the worst storms.

One of the ways to prepare for the hurricane season is to keep your trees pruned. This will help tree limbs damaging your house. It is recommended that you do this several months before hurricane season starts while many say pruning your trees every month will only help get rid of unwanted fly away limbs and will make your trees stronger and healthier to withstand heavy winds. On young trees try to prune branches to 8 inches. With mature trees remove all dead leaves and branches.

Have a generator and know how to use it. For the most part you may not have to use it but always be prepared. A generator will help when the power in your house is lost. Keep the generator either outside or in a well ventilated area. These all gas powered machines let out a colorless gas called CO. Do not refuel the generator while it is on either. When it has been a long time before using again be sure to dust off and check for any damages or missing parts.

Have a hurricane supply kit. Be sure everything is included before the season comes about. The kit should have enough supply for 3 to 14 days. Check to see if there is enough water, a manual can opener, canned fruit and vegetables, cereal, peanut butter, among many more items. You must items that will keep give you enough nutrients to keep you satisfied and with enough energy to deal with poor conditions. You want to be sure to have a tool box available along with various items you may need for your child or children and/or pets.

Know of the evacuation zones. There are three evacuation zones so you will need to know which zone you live in. The zones are yellow, red, and green. Red zone covers areas including Miami Beach, Virginia Key, Key Biscayne, and Sunny Isles Beach. Yellow zone includes mainland Miami-Dade County, east of Biscayne Blvd., Brickell Avenue, and South Bayshore Drive. Green zone includes Miami-Dade County, West of zone Yellow, SW 152 Street, and SW 184 Street.

Learn more about this author, Laura Hageman.
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