Area residents have the opportunity to stock their emergency preparedness kits during the first- ever, statewide weather preparedness sales tax holiday this weekend.

The holiday began at 12:01 a.m. today, Fri., July 6, and ends at midnight, Sun., July 8.

State sales tax and county sales tax on listed items valued at $60 or less that may be used during severe weather and natural disaster situation are exempted. Generators valued at $1,000 or less are also exempt.

Covered items valued at $60 or less include: AAA-cell batteries, AA-cell batteries, C-cell batteries, D-cell batteries, 6-volt batteries, 9-volt batteries, cellular phone battery, cellular phone charger, portable self-powered radio, battery-powered radio, two-way radio, weatherband radios, portable self-powered light source, tarpaulin, plastic sheeting, plastic drop cloths, ground anchor system, such as bungee cords or rope or tie-down kit, duct tape, plywood, window film or other materials specifically designed to protect window coverings, non-electric food storage cooler, non-electric water storage container, non-electric can opener, artificial ice, blue ice, ice packs, reusable ice, self-contained first aid kit, fire extinguisher, smoke detector, carbon monoxide detector and gas or diesel fuel tank or container.

Small businesses are looking forward to the holiday in which they believe it will be a “boost” for business.

“It’s going to help employers prepare for disaster, but it’s also going to give a boost to retailers in particular at a time when they could use the help,” said Rosemary Elebash, state director of the National Federation of Independent Business. “Alabama knows too well that disaster can strike at any time, in any reason, and families and businesses alike have to get ready, which is why NFIB/Alabama supported the legislation creating this sales tax holiday.