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Hurricane season is upon us and it is important that Miami Gardens residents take the proper precautions to stay safe. Until November 30 — the end of the season — many communities are vulnerable to flooding, wind and heavy rainfall. City of Miami Gardens Assistant Police Chief Joseph Nargiso shared some tips to keep your family safe during this time.
“Make sure everyone in your household knows and understands your hurricane plan,” he said. “Include the office, kids’ daycare and anywhere you frequent. Ensure your business has a continuity plan to continue operating when disaster strikes.”
Nargiso also encourages residents to check their roofs, doors and windows for any imperfections before a storm comes. Residents can purchase hurricane clips to redirect wind from the roof, as well as hurricane ties and connectors for reinforcement. They can also put shutters or plywood on all windows and exterior doors and make sure windows are sealed airtight.
Emergency plans are crucial. “This includes knowing your evacuation zone, allowing your [phone] to receive warnings and alerts, and reviewing and setting aside important documents like ID cards, insurance and medical information. Also, make sure you have enough supplies which include food, water, batteries, disinfectant, trash bags and other supplies to last at least seven days, in case of an emergency.”
If you need to evacuate or stay in a shelter, practice CDC guidelines to protect yourself and others from COVID-19: wash your hands often, cover up sneezes and coughs, maintain a safe social distance and wear a mask.
The City is also offering assistance to residents. The Police Department supported Councilman Stephens’ Hurricane Supply Drive-Thru Giveaway that included two cases of water, LED-flashlights and first-aid kits. To stay informed, sign up for the Miami Gardens Alert System and receive critical information sent to your phone or email during an emergency. Nargiso adds that it’s important to keep phones charged, and keep extra chargers and phone batteries on hand.
If you need immediate assistance from the Police Department, please call 911. For non-emergency matters call 305-474-6473.
