In a recent government meeting, officials discussed critical preparations for Hurricane Milton, emphasizing the need for residents and businesses to secure their properties against unpredictable storm conditions. The conversation highlighted the importance of ensuring construction sites are adequately protected, with officials advising that materials should be secured to prevent them from becoming hazards during the storm.
Frankie, a key speaker, urged construction workers to \"button up\" their sites, noting that many buildings are either occupied or nearing occupancy, complicating efforts to secure materials. He also mentioned plans to coordinate with portable restroom companies to ensure their units are secured or removed to prevent them from being displaced by strong winds.
The meeting also addressed the distribution of sandbags, with officials confirming that residents can obtain them at the temporary town hall trailers. Approximately 10,000 sandbags have been made available, with a limit of ten bags per resident to manage supply effectively. ID checks are being conducted to ensure that only Fort Myers Beach residents receive the bags.
Additionally, former insurance commissioner advice was shared, urging residents to document their properties thoroughly before the hurricane strikes. This includes taking photos and videos of both the interior and exterior of homes, particularly valuable items and recent renovations. This documentation is crucial for filing insurance claims, as Hurricane Milton represents a new insurance event.
Officials also noted that this situation is unprecedented for FEMA, indicating that the agency is preparing to respond to the unique challenges posed by this storm. The meeting concluded with a call for residents to take immediate action to protect their properties and ensure they are prepared for the impending hurricane.