Preparing for Hurricane Season
Living in the Sunshine State comes with its perks—beautiful beaches, year-round warmth, and endless outdoor adventures. But Florida residents also know that hurricane season is a reality that can’t be ignored. Hurricane season, June 1 through November 30, demands preparation, awareness, and a solid plan. Here’s how Floridians can prepare to stay safe and minimize damage when storms come our way.
Have a Plan in Place
Before a storm is on the radar, make sure you and your family have a clear emergency plan. Discuss evacuation routes, where you’ll go if you need to leave, and how you’ll stay in touch. If you have pets, make sure your plan includes them too. Know whether you live in an evacuation zone and stay informed through your local emergency management office.
Build a Hurricane Kit
Don’t wait for the last-minute rush at the grocery store. In fact, pick up an item each time you go to the store. Create a disaster supply kit with essentials such as:
- Non-perishable food and water (enough for at least 3 days)
- Flashlights and batteries
- First-aid kit
- Medications
- Personal hygiene items
- Cell phone chargers and battery packs
- Cash (ATMs may be down)
- Important documents in a waterproof container
Prepare Your Home
Florida homes are built with storms in mind – especially new construction. Be familiar with how to install your storm shutters well before the storm. That way, you don’t encounter any surprises when it’s time to put them up. Follow these tips to prepare your home:
- Install storm shutters or board up windows
- Trim trees and remove loose yard items that can become projectiles
- Reinforce garage doors
- Know how to safely turn off utilities if needed
- Check your roof for loose shingles or tiles
- If you’re in a flood-prone area, consider sandbags and elevate valuables.
Review Insurance Policies
Now is the time to understand your homeowner’s insurance policy—not during a storm. Make sure you’re covered for wind and flood damage, which are often separate policies. Take a video inventory of your home and belongings for claims purposes.
Stay Informed
Monitor weather reports from trusted sources like the National Hurricane Center. Download hurricane tracking apps and sign up for local emergency alerts. The more informed you are, the faster you can respond.
After the Storm
Once the storm passes, follow guidelines set by local authorities. Continue to prioritize safety:
- Avoid downed power lines and flooded areas
- Use generators safely—never indoors or in a garage
- Document any damage before cleaning up
- Stay tuned for updates about road closures, curfews, and services
Final Thought
Hurricane preparedness isn’t just about surviving the storm—it’s about minimizing stress and damage and recovering faster. With the right steps, Floridians can face hurricane season with confidence and resilience. Unfortunately the State of Florida has not yet passed a budget and therefore, there is no Disaster Preparedness Tax Holiday scheduled for purchasing necessary supplies. Which is even more reason to get your supplies in order sooner than later, to avoid the rush. Start today, because when it comes to hurricanes, it’s always better to be early than sorry.
