TAMPA, Fla. –  As a part of his Prepare Florida initiative, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis was joined by members of Urban Search & Rescue Florida Task Force 3 (FL-TF3) in Tampa today to urge Floridians to prepare for disasters now before the next hurricane takes aim at Florida. Experts have predicted an active 2019 Hurricane Season with the possibility of up to four major hurricanes.
 
CFO Jimmy Patronis said, “Following a hurricane, Florida's dedicated Urban Search & Rescue Teams respond quickly to keep our communities safe in the aftermath of devastation. These brave men and women train year-round so they can serve us when disaster strikes.
 
“Hurricane season will reach its peak in August, so I’m encouraging all Floridians to act now and be prepared if a major storm hits the Sunshine State. Recent Hurricanes Irma and Michael have shown us first-hand the devastation these storms can bring to our communities and it is important to ensure you are covered before a storm hits. Don’t wait until a storm is on the way, prepare now, Florida!”
 
Visit PrepareFL.com for information and resources to protect yourself before a disaster strikes. The website includes helpful tips to help you prepare and recover after a storm. For insurance or financial questions, call CFO Jimmy Patronis’ Insurance Consumer Helpline toll-free at 1-877-MY-FL-CFO (693-5236).

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About CFO Jimmy Patronis 
Chief Financial Officer and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis is a statewide elected official and a member of Florida’s Cabinet who oversees the Department of Financial Services. CFO Patronis works each day to fight insurance fraud, support Florida’s firefighters, and ensure the state’s finances are stable to support economic growth in the state. Follow the activities of the Department on Facebook (FLDFS) and X (@FLDFS).