While the Atlantic Basin has seen relatively little tropical cyclone development in the first few months of the 2010 hurricane season, trouble may literally be brewing on the horizon. According to most experts, the atmospheric and oceanic conditions currently in place are particularly conducive to hurricane formation. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association’s (NOAA) Climate Prediction Center recently updated its 2010 Atlantic Hurricane Season Outlook, calling for a 90% chance of an above normal season. Forecasters now predict 14-20 named storms, including 8-12 hurricanes, of which 4-6 will be classified as “major” (Category 3 or higher on the Saffir-Simpson Scale). Historically, August, September and October have produced 79% of our named storms, 85% of our hurricanes and 93% of our major hurricanes. With 1,197 miles of coastline and all of its cities within 75 miles of the coast, there are no areas in Florida that are immune to the potentially destructive forces of a hurricane.
The bottom line is that this is no time for Floridians to become complacent. Your safety and the safety of your family must be paramount as a hurricane strike becomes imminent. This is best accomplished by being well-prepared and staying informed. Doing so will also minimize the risk of falling victim to fraud and deception during the crisis. In this edition of the Florida Consumer E-Newsletter we have compiled a few pre- and post-storm tips that we hope will be helpful in guiding consumers through the remainder of the 2010 Atlantic hurricane season.
Sincerely,
Charles H. Bronson, Commissioner
As should be the case with any emergency situation, families should have a plan of action before the threat of a hurricane arises. The Florida Division of Emergency Management offers a Family Disaster Planning website. Simply go to www.floridadisaster.org/family to create a personalized Family Disaster Plan. Based on the information that you input, the website will automatically calculate recommended amounts of food and water for your family, provide contact information for your local emergency responders and maps of your local Evacuation Zones, as well as supply checklists of important steps that should be taken before, during and after the disaster. The plan will also address the issue of pets. If you anticipate needing transportation or any specialized assistance, do not wait until the threat of a storm approaches, REGISTER NOW with your county emergency management agency.
Price-Gouging In the wake of a natural disaster, essential commodities (such as fuel, food, ice, generators, lanterns, lumber, lodging, etc.) may be in short supply. Charging exorbitant or excessive prices for these and other necessities following a declared state of emergency is not only unethical, it’s illegal. When an executive order is issued by the Governor declaring a state of emergency in Florida, the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services activates the Price Gouging Hotline. Consumers can call 1-800-HELP-FLA (435-7352) to report potential violations.
Home Repair We often hear stories of how adverse circumstances can bring out the best in people. Unfortunately, it is also true that these same conditions can tend to bring out the worst in others. A frequent problem after a disaster is “fly-by-night” contractors who take deposits before starting work or final payments before finishing. If your home is in need of repair, you should get at least three itemized estimates and check each contractor’s address, license, and complaint history. This can be done by calling the Department of Business and Professional Regulation at (850) 487-1395 or by visiting their website at www.myfloridalicense.com. Be cautious of repair businesses or individuals who: solicit door-to-door, arrive in unmarked vehicles, have a post office box or temporary address, claim they are from another county or state and are in the area solely to help disaster victims, or offer to work for you only if you secure the necessary permits.
Giving to Charity Be skeptical of people soliciting contributions on behalf of the victims of a natural disaster. Ask for the name of the organization they represent and their State of Florida registration number (sometimes referred to as CH # or SC#). Never judge an organization solely on a name that sounds impressive, as many con artists will use names which are similar to well-known charities and organizations in order to gain the confidence of their victim. Charitable solicitation organizations must register with the state. Consumers can check on a group’s registration or complaint history by calling the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services at 1-800-HELP-FLA (435-7352). You can also view our online Gift Givers’ Guide at www.800helpfla.com for current financial information on registered charitable organizations.
We’re Here for You The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services is your consumer information and complaint clearinghouse. For additional information or to file a complaint, visit us online at www.800helpfla.com or call our Consumer Assistance Center. They will answer almost any question you may have or direct you to the best resource for assistance. If you are calling within Florida simply dial 1-800-HELP-FLA (435-7352), outside of Florida 850-488-2221 or en Español 1-800-FL-AYUDA (352-9832).