© 2026 WGCU News
News for all of Southwest Florida
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Step One: Know Your Risk

Peter Clark via Flickr

The 30th annual Governor’s Hurricane Conference came to a close Friday, and a week long effort begins Sunday to remind us all of the hazards these powerful storms bring. After all, it has been ten years since our state endured a direct hit. 
When Director of Florida’s Division of Emergency Management Bryan Koon was asked what he thinks the biggest challenge to Floridians is, he acknowledged the complacency factor. But he was equally - if not more - concerned about the two million new residents that now call Florida home.

“I think lack of awareness if probably a situation we’ve got, at least with some of the new residents of Florida", Koon said. "They have a concept that hurricanes exist, but they don’t know how it’s going to impact their community or home. So that’s step one.”

Bryan and his team of county and city emergency management officials are encouraging everyone to first - identify your risk. Then, you can properly learn how to prepare for it. A website such as HurricaneStrong.org is a great place to start. 

Trusted by over 30,000 local subscribers

Local News, Right Sized for Your Morning

Quick briefs when you are busy, deeper explainers when it matters, delivered early morning and curated by WGCU editors.

  • Environment
  • Local politics
  • Health
  • And more

Free and local. No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.

More from WGCU