June marks the start of hurricane season in Florida, and most families know the basics: check the batteries, review evacuation routes, gather important documents and stock up on nonperishable food.
But the Florida Governmental Utility Authority (FGUA) knows that one essential part of storm preparation is easy to overlook until it is urgently needed: water.
Safe, reliable water is something we depend on every day. We use it to drink, cook, bathe, brush our teeth, flush toilets, wash hands and care for pets. During and after a hurricane, however, power outages, flooding, broken pipes and damaged infrastructure can all affect access to water.
Fortunately, a little preparation now can make a difficult situation much easier later.
Start by storing enough drinking water for everyone in your household. The experts recommend at least one gallon of water per person, per day for several days. In Florida’s heat, and for households with children, older adults, people with medical needs or pets, FGUA recommends keeping a little extra on hand.
Bottled water is the simplest option, but clean, food-grade containers can also be used. Store water in a cool, dark place. Do not wait until a storm is approaching to buy water. If you lived through a Florida hurricane season before, you know that supplies can disappear quickly once a system enters the forecast.
Before a storm arrives, fill bathtubs or large containers with water for non-drinking uses, such as flushing toilets or basic cleaning. This water should not be used for drinking unless local emergency officials say it is safe and it has been properly treated.
It is also important to know where your home’s main water shutoff valve is located.
If a pipe breaks during a storm, turning off the water quickly can help prevent damage. Every adult in the house should know how to shut the water off before an emergency happens.
Customers should also pay close attention to official notices from their local utility. If a precautionary boil water notice is issued, follow the instructions carefully. FGUA does not issue boil water notices lightly. They are only issued when there is a possibility that water quality has been affected.
During a notice, water used for drinking, cooking, brushing teeth, making ice or washing dishes may need to be boiled or otherwise disinfected.
If your home has a private well, you should take additional precautions.
Floodwater can contaminate wells, and a well that has been submerged should not be used for drinking water until it has been inspected, disinfected and tested. When in doubt, contact the local health department or a licensed well professional.
After the storm, avoid opening manhole covers, touching damaged utility equipment or walking through floodwater. Report water main breaks, sewer overflows or unusual changes in water pressure to FGUA or your own water utility. These reports help crews respond quickly and protect public health.
Hurricane preparation is not only about protecting property. It is about protecting people. Water plays a central role in health, safety and recovery after any major storm. By taking a few steps now, you can be better prepared for whatever this hurricane season brings.
