Okaloosa County officials are gearing up for the 2025 Hurricane Preparedness Expo, emphasizing the importance of staying informed and prepared as hurricane season approaches. During a recent meeting, community leaders highlighted their commitment to providing residents with timely and accurate information to ensure safety during storms.

A key focus of the discussions was the concept of "anchoring bias," where individuals may become complacent after seeing initial forecasts that suggest a storm will not impact their area. Officials warned that conditions can change rapidly, and it is crucial for residents to stay updated on storm developments. They encouraged the community to utilize local resources, including a QR code linked to a comprehensive preparedness guide and the National Weather Service's local website for real-time updates.

The meeting also addressed the importance of maintaining communication during emergencies. Officials assured residents that backup systems are in place to ensure the flow of information remains uninterrupted, even if primary communication channels are compromised. This includes contingency plans involving backup locations in New Orleans and Tallahassee.

In addition to these preparations, officials discussed the availability of resources on social media platforms, where they will provide routine updates during storms. They stressed the need for residents to refresh their emergency plans regularly to ensure all contact information is current.

As the 2025 Hurricane Preparedness Expo approaches, Okaloosa County is committed to fostering a well-informed community ready to face the challenges of hurricane season. Residents are encouraged to take advantage of the resources available and stay engaged with local updates to ensure their safety and preparedness.