Local businesses have been stocking and restocking with items for Hurricane Irma preparedness, but items are coming and going quickly.

Dollar General is all stocked up on bread, propane, canned food, charcoal, pet food, and other necessities for Irma preparedness.

The Dollar General on East Three Notch Street just received a shipment of six pallets of water, while the other locations are out.

Winn-Dixie had five pallets of water sent in yesterday, and has more coming today. They also have plenty of propane and batteries, including other necessities for Irma preparedness.

Cost Plus has plenty of water, but an employee said it is going, and going fast. They also have other necessities available.

Pic N Sav is almost out of water and propane.

Covington County EMA Director Susan Harris said there are some tips to preparing for a hurricane.

• Turn on your radio or TV in order to get the latest weather updates and emergency instructions.

• Build or restock your emergency preparedness kit. Include food and water sufficient for at least three days, medications, a flashlight, batteries, cash, and first aid supplies.

• Plan how to communicate with family members if you lose power.

• Review your evacuation plan with your family.

• Keep your car in good working condition, and keep the gas tank full. Also stock your vehicle with emergency supplies and a change of clothes.

The Covington County area does not have FEMA shelters.

Hurricane Irma, a Category 5 hurricane, ripped through a string of northern Caribbean Islands early Wednesday morning.

Winds have reached up to 185 mph, and Irma is still on the same path to hit the Dominican Republic by Thursday, according to the National Hurricane Center.

It is still too early to be able to tell if it will hit U.S. mainland, but models are showing that it could hit Florida’s east coast by late Sunday.

Updates on Hurricane Irma will be continued throughout the week.