INDIAN RIVER COUNTY — Getting ready to survive summers’ storms became entertaining and informative for thousands of visitors to Indian River Mall’s Annual Hurricane Preparedness Expo over the weekend.
Mall marketing director Ursula Gunter said the mall was pleased to host the event and have local residents come out to be sure they adequately prepare their homes and families for the upcoming storm season.
“Residents can get valuable information about the abundant resources available in our community and the latest products out there that can protect their homes,” Gunter said.
The expo is the single biggest event the mall does all year, she said.
“We have customers who have lived here their whole life coming out each year to get new information, as well as new residents,” Gunter said.
Visitors enjoy meeting the meteorologists, hearing the storm season prediction and finding out about the newest technology available to them in terms of shutters, roofs and generators, along with all of the services available for clean-up and restoration after a storm hits, she said.
“It is time to start preparing now,” Gunter said. “Even if they are calling for a mild hurricane season, it is imperative that local residents educate themselves about what to do to prepare their homes and families for a potential storm.”
The community has an abundant amount of free resources readily available from The North Treasure Coast Chapter of the American Red Cross, to United Way’s Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (VOAD) and the Salvation Army, she said.
“We offer information for before, during and after the storm,” Gunter said.
Red Cross volunteer Lee Oates said she was glad to see the expo was well-attended, with many people picking up information and looking at disaster-related products.
“It’s definitely time to think about hurricane season,” Oates said. “We’re in it already.”
The season officially began June 1, though two storms formed early, and continues through Nov. 30.
The key to preparedness is knowing exactly what you need and where to get it, she said.
“The biggest thing is just making sure everything’s ready,” Oates said.
The lighter side of hurricane readiness was displayed through a cook-off challenge wherein contestants had to create an entire meal with foods prepared without the use of electricity. Up for grabs was a prize pack worth $500 and bragging rights.
Eight entrants presented dishes – ranging from tuna salad to barbeque pork ribs – to a panel of judges.
Last year’s winner, Mary Hill of Sebastian, returned to vie for “top chef” in this year’s contest with a ham salad, butterbean salad and shortbread cookies.
Ultimately, Hill was beat out by Rob Meadows and his apple-smoked chicken but said she still had a great time at the expo.
“It was a lot of fun,” Hill said. “I just enjoy making these recipes.”
Staying stocked with canned meats, vegetables and a good stock of herbs makes not using electricity less of a hindrance after a disaster, she said.
“They are a lot of fun and so easy…and tasty, too,” Hill said.
