"Now is the time to prepare for a tropical storm," said Robin Miller, director of communications for Winn-Dixie. "Our neighborhood stores are stocked with key items to help our customers get ready."

Miller noted that the Red Cross and emergency management officials urge people to have a "hurricane kit" with enough bottled water, canned and non-perishable foods, paper products, flashlights and batteries to last at least three days in case a tropical storm knocks out power. Experts suggest keeping on hand one gallon of water per person per day, along with food and first aid supplies.

The Jacksonville-based grocer is also selling Oregon Scientific Weather Radios for $19.99 in all of its 520 stores in Florida, Alabama, Louisiana, Georgia and Mississippi. The radios broadcast emergency local weather warnings issued by the National Weather Service and are powered by normal house current with a battery backup.

Winn-Dixie also has equipped its regional distribution centers in Miami, Orlando, Jacksonville and Hammond, La., and 82 stores throughout its operating area with 500-kilowatt, diesel-powered generators in areas that have been affected by power outages associated with hurricanes and tropical storms in recent years. All of the generators have been tested and are ready for use.

"The installation of these powerful generators allows us to be better prepared and serve our customers in the event of a storm," said Miller. "They will enable our stores to remain open and functional in the aftermath of a hurricane or tropical storm, even if local power has not been restored."

About Winn-Dixie

Winn-Dixie Stores, Inc., is one of the nation's largest food retailers. Founded in 1925, the Company is headquartered in Jacksonville, Fla. The Company currently operates 520 retail grocery locations, including more than 400 in-store pharmacies, in Florida, Alabama, Louisiana, Georgia and Mississippi. For more information, please visit www.winn-dixie.com.

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