Hurricane season is here – keep current to stay safe! Explore available resources to support you in case of a tropical storm. WRUF and WUFT encourage everyone to become familiarized with the University of Florida’s emergency plans and take the necessary precautions in advance of a forecast.  UF’s outline for emergency management is below.

Hurricane Supplies Now Permanently Tax Free

Previously, Florida held sales tax holidays for hurricane preparedness supplies during specific periods. However, the 2025 state budget eliminated these temporary tax holidays in favor of a permanent sales tax exemption on a range of disaster preparedness items. This year-round exemption became effective on August 1, 2025. 

This means certain hurricane supplies are now always tax-free in Florida, rather than during a limited timeframe. 

Here’s a list of hurricane supplies that are now permanently tax-free in Florida, starting August 1, 2025:

• Batteries (AA, AAA, C, D, 6-volt, and 9-volt)
• Portable generators (capable of producing 10,000 running watts or less)
• Waterproof tarps (1,000 square feet or less)
• Portable gas cans (gas or diesel, 5-gallon capacity or less)
• Ground anchor systems and tie-down kits
• Smoke detectors or smoke alarms
• Carbon monoxide detectors
• Fire extinguishers
• First-aid kits
• Sunscreen (excluding cosmetics)
• Insect repellent
• Life jackets
• Bicycle helmets 

It is important to note that while these specific items are permanently tax-free, some items that were previously part of the temporary hurricane sales tax holidays, such as reusable ice packs, lanterns, flashlights, candles, portable power banks, non-electric food storage coolers, and pet supplies, are no longer included in the tax break. 

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION SOURCES 

Anyone, including family members, may elect to receive UF Alerts for the Gainesville campus by downloading the GatorSafe app onto their mobile device. The app helps users make emergency calls, receive UF alerts and perform other functions that improve their personal safety and security. 

In addition to the UF homepage, which is the main resource for the latest information, updates will be provided via UF’s Twitter and Facebook accounts. UF’s Severe Weather Updates and Emergency Management websites also provide the latest information on weather alerts and resources to help you prepare for hurricane season. 

You can also monitor the UF Public Safety Twitter feed, and the Florida Public Radio Emergency Network offers a free Florida Storms app to stay informed about potential weather and other hazards, and download the BEACON—the Broadcast Emergency Alerts Communications Operations Network app. BEACON delivers real-time emergency information directly from Emergency Managers to the public, leveraging non-generative A.I. and the trusted resilience of broadcast infrastructure. This powerful combination provides continuous updates on WUFT-HD4 88.5 FM and through the BEACON mobile app.

Frequently monitor local media (WRUF-TV [Cox Cable Channel 6], 89.1 FM, 103.7 FM and 850 AM) for storm updates and information from local officials. 

Information will be updated daily on UF’s Rumor Control Line: 1-866-UF-FACTS (866-833-2287). 

Live local coverage from the UF Weather Center is available at wuft.org/news/weather/. Statewide information from the Florida Public Radio Emergency Network is available on the mobile app Florida Storms. Updates will also be available via the Florida Storms’ Twitter and Facebook page. 

The IFAS Disaster Preparation & Recovery website provides you with information on how you can protect yourself, your loved one and your property. 

BEFORE A STORM 

• Ensure your storm supply kit is stocked — instructions on how to build a kit may be found on the Emergency Management website. 
• Fuel your vehicle. 
• Inform family and friends of the plan, especially if sheltering in a different location than usual. 
• Remove or secure outside items such as potted plants, grills and lawn furniture. 

DURING A STORM 

• Stay indoors and do not travel during the storm. 
• If winds become strong, stay away from doors and windows. Take refuge in an interior room, closet or hallway. 
• Do NOT use candles, which can increase fire risk. 
• Understand that emergency services and scheduled bus routes might not be able to respond or operate during the storm.

Whether you are a seasoned expert in hurricane preparedness, or this is a new experience, we hope this information helps to keep you and your loved ones safe. 

Sponsored in part by Radiant Credit Union.