JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – While this year’s hurricane season has remained relatively calm so far, Floridians are reminded that preparation is key — especially with storms possible through late November.
Melissa DeVriese, President of Security First Insurance, joined River City Live to share practical advice for families facing Florida’s unique hurricane challenges.
Helping Children Cope
DeVriese emphasized that hurricanes can be particularly frightening for children. She recommended:
- Open communication — Talk to kids ahead of time about hurricane plans and evacuation steps.
- Involvement — Let children help pack comfort items like snacks, blankets, or stuffed animals.
- Entertainment — Prepare non-digital options such as books, board games, and art supplies in case power and internet are lost.
“These small steps can make a stressful experience less overwhelming for kids and improve the overall family experience,” DeVriese explained.
Pet Preparedness
Pets, too, require special planning. DeVriese advised owners to:
- Ensure microchips and collars are updated, and consider adding GPS trackers.
- Prepare a “grab bag” with food, medications, crates, or carriers.
- After a storm, inspect your yard for downed power lines, fallen trees, or damaged fences before letting pets outside.
Staying Informed
Security First Insurance provides a Storm Resource Center at securityfirstflorida.com, where residents can find checklists, tips, and guidance to prepare for severe weather.
“Even when a season seems quiet, that’s often when storms can surprise us,” DeVriese cautioned. “It’s never too early to prepare your family and pets for what Mother Nature might bring.”This segment is sponsored by Security First Insurance, committed to helping Floridians protect what matters most during hurricane season.
Security First Insurance, headquartered in Ormond Beach, Florida, is one of the state’s largest and most trusted homeowners insurance providers. Since its founding in 2005, the company has grown to serve hundreds of thousands of Floridians, combining over a century of insurance expertise with a team of nearly 400 professionals. Under the leadership of President Melissa Burt DeVriese and CEO Locke Burt, Security First is known for its rapid disaster response, innovative repair solutions, and commitment to protecting Florida families—today and for generations to come.