FLORENCE, SC (WBTW) – As Hurricane Matthew strengthens the South Carolina Department of Insurance wants to make sure people in our area are storm ready.

Forecasts may change but it’s important to be prepared in case the worst happens.

During the storm ready expo people met with vendors, insurance agents, state and local emergency preparedness organizations.

There were also some fun activities for the kids there, including a tour of firetrucks and face painting.

Families who attended came out for an opportunity to learn different ways they can strengthen and protect their homes against storms and severe weather.

Experts say hurricane season continues through November 30th and this year alone, a number of tropical events have moved through the state causing minor damages and creating losses.

“This is so timely, we do have Matthew out there turning around in the Atlantic we don’t know quite what’s going to happen with him just yet, but you know we need to be prepared for all sorts of events. We do have winter coming. It’s hard to believe today but it will be around the corner so there are things you need to do to protect your home,” said Ann Roberson, Public Information Officer for South Carolina Department of Insurance.

If you haven’t done so yet, experts say now is the best time to gather supplies before the next big storm.