1. Evacuate early and stay away until it's safe to return. Hurricane Michael was a powerful Category 5 hurricane that caused widespread damage along the Florida Panhandle and into Georgia in 2018. One of the most important lessons learned from this storm was the importance of evacuating early and staying away until it was safe to return. Evacuating early can save lives, as it allows people to get out of the path of the storm and avoid being trapped in flooded or damaged areas. Staying away until it is safe to return can also help prevent injuries or illnesses from downed power lines, damaged buildings, or contaminated water.

2. Be prepared for power outages. Hurricane Michael caused widespread power outages, some of which lasted for weeks. This taught us the importance of being prepared for power outages, by having a generator, flashlights, batteries, and non-perishable food on hand. It is also important to have a plan for how to stay informed during a power outage, such as by listening to a battery-powered radio or using a smartphone.

3. Secure your home and belongings. Hurricane Michael's high winds and storm surge caused significant damage to homes and businesses. This taught us the importance of securing our homes and belongings before a hurricane makes landfall. This can include boarding up windows, removing loose objects from around the yard, and bringing in outdoor furniture and decorations. It is also important to have a plan for how to protect important documents and valuables in the event of a storm.

4. Have a disaster plan and be aware of your surroundings. Hurricane Michael taught us the importance of having a disaster plan in place and being aware of our surroundings. This includes knowing where to evacuate to, how to stay informed about the storm, and what to do if you are caught in the storm. It is also important to be aware of the risks associated with hurricanes, such as flooding, storm surge, and high winds.

5. Be patient and help your neighbors. Hurricane Michael recovery efforts took a long time, and it is important to be patient during this process. It is also important to help your neighbors and community members who have been affected by the storm. This can include offering shelter, food, water, or other assistance. Working together can help us to recover from a hurricane more quickly and effectively.