By Paul Waldmiller
Did you know that a recent AAA survey of Floridians reveal that up to one quarter of all surveyed would not evacuate if a hurricane was approaching?
The survey found that this percentage is due to various reasons, including:
- 33% wanting to stay in case there’s damage to their home or property that they can fix.
- 29% believing the storm will turn away from their direction
- Financial circumstances, as some people say they would not be able to afford to leave.
- Fear of people looting after a storm.
- Not being able to bring their pets with them.
- Not having flood insurance, with 64% of respondents not having flood insurance, citing reasons such as not living in a flood zone, never having flood problems in the past, insurance being too expensive, or believing their homeowner’s insurance is enough.
Every Florida resident is being warned that 2024 is expected to bring a near record number of storms or hurricanes due to the high temperature of the Atlantic Ocean as well as in the Gulf. Residents should take advantage of the tax relief this week regarding purchase of hurricane preparedness items.