Stores prepare for hurricane season

MIAMI (WSVN) -- Stores are preparing for the influx of customers as hurricane season begins and Tropical Storm Isaac develops.

Wednesday, Home Depot began to restock some essential items many will need in case of a hurricane. Jose Cerda, Home Depot store manager, said they have a lot of experience working during the hurricane season. "We already know what they'll be using, which is the sand, batteries, water, propane tanks, barbecues. We have generators about 5,000 new generators."

Stores are also stocking up on staff to meet expected demand. "All of our staff is on call from now throughout the weekend until the storm would hit, if it hits our area," said John, the general manager of Shell Lumber.

At Shell Lumber, plywood is the name of the game. With truckloads readily available, they have a lot more where that came from. "We also have a distribution center that we distribute to ourselves from," said John. "As the storm started getting closer, we started calling in orders and things ahead of time."

Cerda said their distribution center is just a phone call when the threat gets closer to South Florida before they begin to bring an abundance of supplies to the stores.

Supermarkets such a Sedano's are also making preparations. They are stocking up on items such as evaporated milk, baby formula, as well as bottled water and other necessities customers will be looking for. Many stores are setting up hurricane sections to make it easier for their customers to find what they are looking for.

Grocery stores are also stocking up. Kim Reynolds, a Publix Spokesperson, said trucks are ready to go. "We have some Publix fuel tanks," she said. "We're making sure those are fully stocked, so that our trucks can be on the road, fully stocked up."

Pedro Mesa, the store manager at a Sedano's, said his stores will be ready even if the power goes out. "We have generators at all 34 stores, so we will be open," he said.

Junice Romano said she was shopping for some extra storm supplies. "Basically I'm prepared, but I always like to have a little bit of extra on-hand."

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