"We're monitoring and that's kind of our standard protocol."

     For now, Jeff Bielling of Alachua County Emergency Management says that could all change if we enter the 3 day projected path of the storm.

"Until we are actually in that cone, we don't start ramping up our activity," said Bielling.

     But in the event of that happening, preparations would begin, starting with the shelters.
     Workers would be notified, however, the shelters wouldn't open up quite yet.

"We generally won't start opening shelters until about 24 hours until anticipated onset of tropical storm force winds," said Bielling.

     Until that happens, Bielling says it's important to monitor the forecast.

"Given where we are with the predicted path of the storm, and its location and intensity, now is a good time to prepare," said Bielling.

     Which can be done by clearing objects from your lawn that could blow away.
      It's a good idea to stock up on the essentials now, just in case.

"3 to 5 days of non perishable food items on hand, enough water to cook and clean with," said Bielling.

     To create some certainty, in a time of uncertainty.
 

Here is the link for the "Go Tapeless" movement! 

http://www.greathurricaneblowout.org/protect_tapeless.php