preparation for the storm

Before -planning ahead

Steps to take to be prepared!
  • Get Flood Insurance.  Standard Property Insurance does not cover floods.  There is a 30 day waiting period before Flood Insurance coverage takes effect.  Renters can buy content coverage even if the structure is not covered.  Talk with a licensed insurance agent to determine if you are covered.
  • Build for Permanent Protection/Mitigation.  The Building Department can assist you with questions regarding building in a Floodplain.  FEMA offers grants to assist owners in mitigating future flood damage potential.  We can assist with this process. 
  • Consider installing flood openings in crawlspaces and garages, elevating utilities, fuse boxes, and AC units.  Label the fuse or breaker box.
  • Create a Family Disaster Plan.  Know your Evacuation Route and where you plan to stay.  Manatee County offers Emergency Shelters, Pet Friendly shelters and Special Needs Assistance shelter registry.   Sign up for the latest local alerts and notices at Alert Manatee.

During -Prepare to leave

The storm is on the way!
  • Leaving the island is smarter than taking a chance with your life.  Even if the hurricane or storm doesn't come ashore, flooding can happen quickly, so prepare to leave while you are able to. 
  • Evacuation notices are issued by Manatee County utilizing the Reverse Telephone Notification; CodeRed; Intergrated Public Alert and Warning System (IPAWS) to send emergency information via mobile phones and text messages; Emergency Management Network (EMnet) system to send, receive and broadcast Emergency Alert System (EAS) messages throughout Manatee County Florida.  Bradenton Beach Police in partnership with West Manatee Fire Rescue uses sires and loudspeakers throughout the neighborhoods directing people to leave immediately. 
  • These sites will help you plan a strategy for before, during and after the storm. Manatee County Emergency Management and Florida Disaster, a division of Emergency Management.
  • Clear the yard of loose objects that can become projectiles or cause damage during the storm.
  • Last minute emergency measures:  Move valuables items to a higher level.  Place sandbags in front of doorways and entry points.  DO NOT remove the sand from the beach areas.  This is a natural protective barrier against flooding and wave action.  Sandbags can be picked up at GT Bray park located at 5502 33rd Ave Dr. W. off of 59th St W. prior to the storm events.
  • Turn off electric, gas and water services to your house.
  • Do not drive or walk in deep water.  Stay away from downed power lines. Electrocution is the second leading cause of death in flood waters following drowning.  Report any downed power lines or concerns to Florida Power and Light at 941-917-0708.

After -returning home

Recovering from the storm.
  • Wait until the ALL CLEAR is given before attempting to return to the island.
  • To return to the island you may need a photo ID and utility bill to show proof of residence, and a re-entry tag from the City Clerk's office.
  • DO NOT enter a flooded structure. Assume the structure is unsafe.  Do not turn on the electric. DO NOT run a generator inside a building.  Set it outside for fumes to properly ventilate.
  • Assessing possible damage to your property can be difficult as a home owner.  Contact your insurance agent and contact the Building Department to determine if you have substantial damage to your home.  
  • Secure and protect your property from additional damage with emergency measures such as tarping a damaged roof or boarding up an open broken window.
  • Obtain a Permit from the City's Building Department for any repairs.  Use only licensed contractors to make the repairs and consider using flood resistant materials.   
  • FEMA offers assistance with mitigation grants to reduce exposure to flood damage and mitigation cost during repairs.  The Building Department can provide additional information.  
  • Keep safe while drying out! Mold...when in doubt...take it out! Allow time to properly dry out. Wear protective clothing. Remove wet padding, carpet and drywall if needed. Clean, clean, clean.
  • DO NOT dump pollutants into storm drains, they drain into the bay which is a habitat to many species.  Dispose of debris responsibly.  Watch our home page for additional information about debris removal schedules following the storm.