Florida officials noted the state’s disaster preparedness sales tax holidays on Tuesday, just days after the beginning of a forecasted active Hurricane Season.

In anticipation of an active Hurricane Season, which began June 1, the state of Florida is holding two Disaster Preparedness Sales Tax Holidays from June 1–14 and August 24–September 6.

The Florida Department of Revenue has additioanlly published a list detailing which items qualify for the exempt sales tax. Featured items include portable generators, waterproof sheeting, smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, batteries, and pet evacuation supplies. There is no limit on the number of qualifying items that can be purchased tax-exempt.

“Disaster can strike at any time. Hurricanes, tornadoes, floods, and fires are frequent threats to people and property. The beginning of hurricane season is a good time for Floridians to gather supplies they would need to stay safe during and after a disaster,” explained Jim Zingale, Executive Director of the Florida Department of Revenue.

Last month, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration forecasted an ‘above-normal’ 2024 Atlantic hurricane season. This prediction includes anticipation of 23 named storms, 11 hurricanes, and five reaching major hurricane status. This prediction significantly exceeds the averages from 1991-2020 and follows an active 2023 season.

“The state government is more than ready and prepared. We need you to be ready, too,” said Kevin Guthrie, Executive Director of the Florida Division of Emergency Management.

During a Tuesday morning press conference, Guthrie outlined a five-step process for emergency preparation precautions:

1. 1. Make a plan for everyone in the household, including pets.
   2. Build a disaster supply kit with at least seven days’ worth of supplies.
   3. Know your evacuation zone and know your home.
   4. Treat a halfway-full gas tank as empty, never allowing your gas to dip under the halfway mark.
   5. Evacuate locally; travel tens of miles to evacuate, not hundreds.

“We prepare for the worst and hope for the best,” said Gov. Ron DeSantis