I lived in S. FL for most of my life until I moved up to NC two and a half years ago... There are a few things to keep in mind about hurricanes (since some of you have asked). To me, hurricanes aren't a big deal..but I'm from climate and area that dealt with them contantly and was always prepared. We pretty much would just be like "neh....another storm." and we'd just close our shutters for a few days, gripe about the loss of power, and grumble about having to vaccuum leaves out of the pool AGAIN, until the next storm rolled in. They aren't something to panic about but that doesn't mean they aren't dangerous and the big factor is which end of the storm you get.
Make sure you have extra batteries for your flashlights and/or lamps. Hurricane lamps are GREAT, they put out enough light to fill a small room but they will eat your batteries if you're using them constantly.
A small radio that runs on batteries is also a good idea because you can get updates on road conditions, downed power lines, and storm tracking.
It is a good idea to either buy extra flats of water/water gallons - keeping in mind that tap water may not be drinkable or may require boiling (fine if you have a gas stove, gas grill, or fieplace with enough wood). Make sure you have enough for your pets, including the ones outdoors! If you can't drink the water, chances are..they can't either. I used to freeze about 4 gallons of water extra just so that we could have some cold water AND because it helps keep the fridge/freezer cold for an extended period of time when the power goes out.
Fill up your cars with gas --- I think it is a LAW now that all gas stations have to have generators, but in FL we had a problem getting gas one year and it taught us a lesson. Fill up your car, you never know what may happen or if you suddenly have to leave.
Finally..DON'T shop the day before the storm...not only will it be INSANE (think about how people act if you mention the CHANCE of a SNOW FLURRY in winter) but it will also be difficult to get the things you might want, and you know there will be no bread and no milk. I don't know why this is a storm/winter staple....but I promise you, if you have no power, six gallons of milk and a bunch of stale bread ISN'T going to help you! I used to stock up on granola bars and trail mix as my "worse case senario" rations.
I hope everyone, and all of your animals, make it through the storm unphased and unharmed with minimal damage.
I may be just posting things that people already know, and if I am...I apologize, I just know that when things get stressful or you're in a rush, sometimes the little things slip your mind when you're busy running around trying to prepare. At least, it's like that for ME...but I lost my mind a long time ago.
