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TAX HOLIDAY: Buy hurricane supplies tax free

Posted at 6:43 AM, May 25, 2012
and last updated 2012-05-25 09:25:02-04

RICHMOND, Va. (WTVR) – Last year homes were damaged and destroyed, power was out for days and trees blocked the roadways in the aftermath of Hurricane Irene.  And with the start of hurricane season beginning June 1, state emergency officials want to help you get prepared way ahead of any possible storms.

Virginia's Hurricane Preparedness Sales Tax Holiday runs May 25-31.  It's a chance to stock up on storm supplies tax free.  That is a savings of 5-percent.

Weather experts are predicting up to 15 named storms Atlantic storms this season, including one to three major hurricanes with winds over 100 miles-per-hour.  Because we have seen scary and unusual weather patterns in recent years, families are encouraged to load up on emergencies supplies in order to protect your home.

"We really need to be prepared when emergencies happen," said Public Outreach Coordinator Laura Southard.  "The best thing to do for your family is to have a plan, talk ahead of time about some things that you would do, some places you would go if you need to leave; and then have some supplies on hand."

Last year Hurricane Irene left more than half a million Virginians without power.

The Virginia Department of Taxation's Hurricane Preparedness Sales Tax Holiday Guidelines and Rules are available online.  Click here for more information.