Hurricane Milton, currently a Category 5 storm north of the Yucatan Peninsula, is expected to weaken to a Category 3 or 4 at landfall in Florida. With storm surges of 10-15 feet forecasted for the Tampa Bay area, this is still a highly dangerous storm. It’s crucial to act now to protect your property and community.
If you own a golf cart, especially one with a lithium-ion battery, follow these critical steps to prevent serious hazards:
- Move your golf cart to higher ground IMMEDIATELY.
With the potential for significant flooding, it’s important to ensure your cart isn’t submerged, which can cause severe damage and safety risks. - Keep your golf cart at least 50 feet away from any structure.
Lithium-ion batteries and salt water are a deadly combination. If a battery is exposed to salt water, it can ignite, leading to fires that are nearly impossible to extinguish. These fires will continue to burn until the battery is completely consumed, potentially causing catastrophic damage to homes, cars, and other property. - Turn off and disconnect your golf cart from all power sources.
This helps reduce the risk of short circuits and other electrical issues in case of flooding.
Most importantly, follow all local authorities’ directions.
If they issue an evacuation order, get out of there! Your safety and the safety of your family are the top priority—property can be replaced, lives cannot.
Lithium-ion battery fires are extremely dangerous and spread rapidly. By taking these precautions, you can protect your property and the safety of your neighborhood as Hurricane Milton approaches.
Stay safe, stay informed, and follow evacuation guidelines if ordered.