Be Prepared Before Hurricane Season Begins

Living in South Florida means living with hurricane season from June 1 through November 30 every year. The key to minimizing storm damage isn't what you do when a hurricane is two days away—it's the preparation you complete before the season even starts.

This comprehensive checklist will help you prepare your home, family, and finances for hurricane season, giving you the best chance of weathering any storm with minimal damage.

Before Hurricane Season (By June 1)

Home Hardening Projects

These improvements should be completed well before hurricane season begins:

Roof

Have your roof professionally inspected
Repair any loose, missing, or damaged shingles/tiles
Ensure hurricane straps connect your roof to walls
Clean gutters and downspouts thoroughly
Trim overhanging branches near your roof

Windows and Doors

Install hurricane shutters or purchase plywood for all windows
Measure and pre-cut plywood, label each piece
Check that garage door meets hurricane code (or reinforce it)
Inspect all door and window seals
Consider impact-resistant windows for long-term protection

Exterior

Trim all trees and remove dead branches
Secure or store loose outdoor items
Reinforce fencing if necessary
Check your pool enclosure for weak points
Ensure drainage around your home is clear

Emergency Supplies

Stock these supplies before hurricane season to avoid last-minute shortages:

Water and Food

1 gallon of water per person per day for 7 days minimum
Non-perishable food for 7 days
Manual can opener
Pet food and water (if applicable)
Baby formula and food (if applicable)

Power and Light

Flashlights with extra batteries
Battery-powered or hand-crank radio
Portable phone chargers (fully charged)
Generator with sufficient fuel (store safely)
Extension cords for generator use

First Aid and Medications

Fully stocked first aid kit
7-day supply of all prescription medications
Over-the-counter medications (pain relievers, antacids, etc.)
Personal hygiene items
Glasses or contacts with backup pair

Important Documents

Insurance policies (home, auto, flood)
Photo ID and passport copies
Bank account information
Property deed and mortgage documents
Medical records and prescriptions
Store copies in waterproof container or cloud storage

Insurance Review

Review homeowners insurance coverage limits
Understand your hurricane deductible (usually 2-5% of home value)
Purchase or review flood insurance (required waiting period)
Document your belongings with photos and video
Store documentation outside your home (cloud storage)

Know Your Zone

Identify your evacuation zone at KnowYourZoneFL.com
Plan multiple evacuation routes
Identify pet-friendly shelters and hotels
Discuss family communication plan
Designate an out-of-area contact person

When a Storm Is Approaching (5-7 Days Out)

When the National Hurricane Center begins tracking a potential threat:

Monitor the storm's track and intensity
Top off vehicle fuel tanks
Review your evacuation plan
Confirm hotel reservations if evacuating
Check emergency supplies and replace expired items
Get cash (ATMs may not work after the storm)

Storm Warning Issued (48-72 Hours)

When a hurricane watch or warning is issued:

Property Protection

Install hurricane shutters or plywood
Bring in all outdoor furniture, plants, and decorations
Secure or store garbage cans, grills, and yard equipment
Fill bathtubs and containers with water for toilet flushing
Turn refrigerator and freezer to coldest settings
Move vehicles to highest ground or covered parking

Final Preparations

Fill all vehicles with fuel
Charge all devices and backup batteries
Photograph your property's current condition
Withdraw additional cash
Fill prescriptions
Contact family members about your plans

If Evacuating

If you're in an evacuation zone or choose to leave:

Follow official evacuation routes
Leave early to avoid traffic
Take emergency supplies and important documents
Unplug major appliances
Turn off electricity at the breaker (if flooding expected)
Turn off water at the main valve
Lock all doors and windows
Inform someone of your destination

If Sheltering in Place

If you're staying home:

Stay inside and away from windows
Close all interior doors
Go to an interior room during the strongest winds
Fill sinks and tubs with water
Keep refrigerator and freezer closed
Listen to battery-powered radio for updates
Don't go outside during the eye—the storm will resume

After the Storm Passes

Don't let your guard down once the storm passes:

Safety First

Wait for official all-clear before going outside
Watch for downed power lines
Don't wade through standing water
Don't use electrical appliances that got wet
Don't drink tap water until cleared by authorities

Damage Assessment

Photograph all damage before cleanup
Check for structural damage before entering
Document everything for insurance claims
Contact your insurance company promptly
Don't throw away damaged items until adjuster inspects

Getting Help

Call restoration professionals for water damage
Request emergency roof tarping if needed
Beware of storm-chasing contractors
Apply for FEMA assistance if available
Check on neighbors, especially elderly

Important Contact Numbers

Keep these numbers accessible:

Emergency: 911
FEMA: 1-800-621-3362
Florida Emergency Management: 850-815-4000
Your Insurance Company: _________________
Local Power Company: _________________
Total Care Restoration: (786) 610-6317

Conclusion

Hurricane preparation isn't about panicking—it's about being ready so you can make calm, informed decisions when a storm threatens. The work you do before hurricane season begins is the most important factor in how well you weather any storm.

If your property sustains storm damage despite your best preparation, contact our team immediately. We provide 24/7 emergency response including roof tarping, water extraction, and complete storm damage restoration throughout South Florida.

Stay safe, and be prepared.

Hurricane Preparation Checklist for South Florida Homeowners