Southwest Florida stores running out of supplies

By Emily Dishnow

CREATED Aug. 23, 2012 - UPDATED: Aug. 23, 2012

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  • From your windows to your pantry, preparations for Isaac are underway in Southwest Florida. But if you haven't been to the store just yet, you may find, you're actually getting a late start. Video by fox4now.com

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FORT MYERS, Fla. - “I came for propane and batteries,” says Dave Hopp.

Some of you out on Thursday, thinking you’re ahead of the game

“I’m getting a generator, water, flashlight, batteries, and at least three days of non-perishable foods, Pete Rosh says.

But once inside this Home Depot in Ft Myers, many customers saying, something seemed off.

“I was actually kind of shocked that it was not that busy right now,” says Andy McDaniel, “I figured there would be a mad rush to get the wood, but apparently there’s not.”

But store manager Erik Mile says, that's because the first rush has already come and gone

“People seem to be a lot more prepared this year compared to the past,” says Erik.

Supplies like water are disappearing as customers load up by the cart full.
Flashlights are flying off store shelves, and signs warn to “buy while supplies last,” and it's happening everywhere!

“I went to shop at Wal-Mart and they were pretty much out of water by now,” says Jose Lopez, “and that was just this morning”

But you're not just shopping to prepare. Jose Lopez sweating in the heat all day long to get his storm shutters up

“It's pretty frightening from what I see on TV,” says Jose, “this is why I’m trying to prepare myself ahead of time.”

And while many of you stock your kits and board up your homes, others are preparing mentally for what may be their first big storm

“I'll button everything down and tie down what I can, and hide what I can, and just pray and hope for the best,” says Tom Rath.

EMILY DISHNOW
edishnow@fox4now.com
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