County preps for hurricane season

Sarasota County Administrator Randall Reid led a presentation yesterday aimed at preparing for the 2012 hurricane season using the oath: “Always be prepared.”

Ed McCrane, the county’s emergency management chief, reiterated Colorado State University’s Tropical Meteorology Project prediction of 10 storms expected to hit Florida this season. He stressed the importance of preparation noting some behaviors to be avoided.

One of the preparation tips agencies stress is to fill your vehicle with gas — the tank itself, not gas cans. “Having gas cans in your vehicle before a storm is very dangerous,” McCrane said.

Siesta Key residents, as well as those who work on the barrier island, should keep documentation to prove so in case bridge access is restricted. Employees of Siesta businesses should have a note from their superior, McCrane said. This is a precaution designed to minimize looting if the island is badly damaged during a hurricane, he said.