Now is the time to plan to protect your family, loved ones

Staying on high alert and keeping informed about the weather conditions and any hurricane warnings or watches issued by the National Weather Service or local authorities is key.

Create an Emergency plan for your family that includes evacuation routes, meeting points and communication methods.

Make sure all family members are aware of the plan.

Prepare emergency supplies by stocking up on essential supplies such as non-perishable food, drinking water, medications, flashlights, batteries, a first-aid kit, and important documents. Make sure you have enough supplies to last several days.

Secure your property by trimming trees and shrubs, secure outdoor furniture, bring in any loose items that could become projectiles in high winds, and of course installing hurricane shutters to protect windows.

Evacuation planning is so important if you are in a flooding area. Be prepared to evacuate if local authorities issue evacuation orders. Plan your evacuation route and know where local shelters are located.

Protect important documents like insurance policies, identification, and medical records in a waterproof container or safe place.

Keep cell phones charged and consider purchasing a portable charger.

Listen to local authorities for updates and follow their instructions during the storm. Stay indoors during the hurricane and away from windows.

After the hurricane be cautious when venturing outside. Watch out for downed power lines, flooding, and other hazards.

Remember that preparedness is key to staying safe during a hurricane.

Stay informed, plan, and be ready to act quickly if a hurricane threatens your area.

CHAMBER ACTIVITY

Third Wednesday Coffee (member event), 8-9 a.m. Wednesday, June 19 at the Realtor Association Building, 3320 Loveland Blvd., Port Charlotte (note the location change). Guest speaker will be Sheriff Bill Prummell, who will present the great initiatives the CCSO accomplishes to keep Charlotte County safe. Immediately following our program, we’ll have a ribbon-cutting Insurance Professionals USA.

Business Card Exchange (member event), 5-7 p.m. Thursday, June 27 at Life Care Center of Punta Gorda, 450 Shreve St. Appetizers and refreshments will be provided, along with fun and games of course for everyone. Bring a gift to promote your business and don’t forget your business cards.

Registration is requested for all events. To RSVP, visit charlottecountychamber.org or call the chamber office at 941-627-2222.

RIBBON CUTTINGS

Ribbon cuttings are an effective way to meet the business owners (and fellow chamber members) in an informal atmosphere and develop great connections. Plus, you get familiar with their products and services provided. Please take the time to show your support and attend our ribbon cuttings:

America’s Boat Club-Peace River, 5:30-6:30 p.m. (ribbon-cutting at 5:45 p.m.) Thursday, June 20, at 21234 Olean Blvd., Port Charlotte. Refreshments will be provided.

Register for ribbon-cuttings at charlottecountychamber.org, or call the chamber office at 941-627-2222.

SPECIAL EVENTS

New Teachers’ Breakfast (member event), 7:30-8:45 a.m. Wednesday, July 31, at Charlotte Harbor Event & Conference Center, 75 Taylor St., Punta Gorda. The Charlotte County Chamber of Commerce will host our annual New Teachers’ Breakfast. Charlotte County Public Schools will be welcoming 200 new teachers this year. We are asking for our members to sponsor a new teacher or teachers. Each sponsor will be able to have breakfast with a new teacher for a heart-warming introduction and convey great information about our community. Registration is required. To sponsor a new teacher, visit charlottecountychamber.org or call the chamber office 941-627-2222.

LEADERSHIP CHARLOTTE APPLICATIONS

Leadership Charlotte Class of 2025 applications are now available.

This will be the 36th year of our Leadership Charlotte program, with over $900K given directly back to our community leaving a legacy for each class.

For those of you who have heard about our premier program and want to participate, now is your time.

Only 25 applicants are accepted. Selection is based on the completeness and comprehensiveness of your application.

To complete your Leadership Charlotte Class of 2025 application and review the program schedule, visit charlottecountychamber.org or come to the chamber office.

The deadline for all application submissions is Aug. 2. No late applications will be accepted.