GEICO Asks: Were Florida Drivers REALLY Prepared for Hurricane Irma Last Year

LAKELAND, Florida, Aug. 23 -- Government Employees Insurance Co., a subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway, issued the following news release:

Every year, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration tracks over a dozen hurricanes nearing the U.S., but if you live on the coast, it only takes one to disrupt your life.

The 2018 hurricane season seems benign so far, but GEICO - after handling over 20,000 Florida auto loss claims from Hurricane Irma last year - thinks residents in Florida can never be too prepared.

Remember this? Last year Florida issued evacuation orders for 5.6 million residents because of Hurricane Irma; roughly four in 10 gas stations ran out of fuel; and about 65 percent of the state lost power.

With that in mind, here are some recommendations from GEICO:

1. Keep your gas tank filled - If you need to evacuate, you want enough gas to get out of town.

2. Park your vehicle on higher ground - Avoid any low lying areas if you can.

3. Protect your car in a garage or parking shelter.

4. Build a disaster kit - Include three days of water, medications, toiletries, cash and charging cables. Add food if and when needed. Don't forget pet supplies.

5. Have an evacuation plan - Identify shelters and discuss how you will communicate with your family if you are separated.

For a complete hurricane preparation checklist, log onto GEICO More and additional tips. Should you need to evacuate, please click on safe driving in the heavy rain and getting your home Flood-Ready.

If you have a loss, please report it as quickly as possible. To speed up your claims process use GEICO Mobile, log in at GEICO.com or call (800) 841-3000 24 hours a day.