Winn-Dixie stocks stores with hurricane-prevention merch

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. Winn-Dixie on Thursday announced that it is stocking its stores with items to help their consumers prepare for what is expected to be a busy hurricane season — as many as 12 named storms are expected to form in the coming year.

Red Cross and emergency management officials urge people to have a “hurricane kit” with enough bottled water, canned and non-perishable foods, paper products, flashlights and batteries to last at least three days in case a tropical storm knocks out power, Winn-Dixie noted in its press release. Experts suggest keeping on hand one gallon of water per person per day, along with food and first aid supplies.

The Jacksonville-based grocer is also selling Oregon Scientific Weather Radios for $39.99 in all of its 520 stores across Florida, Alabama, Louisiana, Georgia and Mississippi. The radios broadcast emergency local weather warnings issued by the National Weather Service and are powered by normal house current with a battery backup.

Winn-Dixie also has equipped its regional distribution centers in Miami; Orlando, Fla.; Jacksonville, Fla.; and Hammond, La., and 82 stores throughout its operating area with 500-kilowatt, diesel-powered generators in areas that have been affected by power outages associated with hurricanes and tropical storms in recent years. All of the generators have been tested and are ready for use.

“The installation of these powerful generators allows us to be better prepared and serve our customers in the event of a storm,” stated Robin Miller, director of communications for Winn-Dixie. “They will enable our stores to remain open and functional in the aftermath of a hurricane or tropical storm, even if local power has not been restored.”