Know your risk and plan
Start by identifying your evacuation zone and flood risk — those are distinct. Local emergency management offices provide maps and alert sign-ups. Sign up for official emergency alerts and follow local agencies on social media for real-time information. Create an evacuation plan that includes multiple routes and a designated meeting place for family or friends.
If you rent, ask your landlord about building procedures and evacuation policies.
Build a weather-ready emergency kit
A basic kit covers 72 hours but consider extending supplies for longer outages. Essentials:
– Water (one gallon per person per day) and nonperishable food
– Battery-powered or crank radio, flashlights, and extra batteries
– First-aid kit, prescription medicines, and copies of medical information
– Cash in small bills and copies of important documents (kept in waterproof containers and backed up to the cloud)
– Phone chargers, power banks, and a list of emergency contacts
– Comfort items for children and pets, including food, leashes, carriers, and vaccination records
Protect your home
Small, low-cost improvements can reduce damage. Install storm shutters or use impact-resistant windows.
Secure doors and reinforce the garage door, which is vulnerable to wind damage. Trim trees and remove dead branches; store loose outdoor items like patio furniture, grills, and potted plants. Check your roof for loose shingles and ensure gutters and downspouts are clear.
Understand insurance and finances
Standard homeowners policies often don’t cover flood damage; flood insurance must typically be purchased separately and may have a waiting period. Review your coverage limits, deductibles, and what your policy excludes. Inventory your belongings with photos or video and store records securely offsite. Keep some emergency cash on hand since ATMs and card machines may be unavailable after a storm.
Generator and utility safety
Portable generators are useful but carry serious risks. Never run generators indoors or in garages.
Place them well away from windows and doors to avoid carbon monoxide exposure.
Follow manufacturer guidelines for fuel storage and transfer, and have a transfer switch professionally installed for whole-house generators.
Travel and vehicle prep
Keep your gas tank at least half full during the hurricane season and maintain an emergency kit in your vehicle. If advised to evacuate, leave early to avoid congestion. If staying put, park vehicles in a garage or on high ground and avoid driving through flooded roads — just a few inches of moving water can sweep a vehicle away.
After the storm
Return only when authorities say it’s safe. Avoid downed power lines and standing water, which can be electrified.
Photograph damage for insurance claims before making repairs, and keep receipts for cleanup and recovery expenses.
Beware of scams; confirm credentials before hiring contractors and consider local referrals or verified review sites.
Being prepared helps protect life, property, and peace of mind.
Regularly review and update plans and supplies, stay informed through reliable local sources, and take small steps now that pay off if severe weather approaches.
