Hurricane Preparedness Guide: Protect Your Home and Family

by Janalene Hiller

 
Living in Florida means enjoying sunshine and coastal beauty, but it also means being ready for hurricane season. Preparation is key not only for safety but also to give you peace of mind when storms approach. Here are some essential tips to help you and your family get ready:
 
1. Create a Family Plan
  • Know your evacuation zone and have multiple routes mapped out.
  • Decide on a meeting spot if you get separated.
  • Keep emergency contacts written down in case phones lose power.
2. Stock Up on Essentials
 
Aim for at least 3–5 days of supplies:
  • Non-perishable food and bottled water (1 gallon per person per day)
  • Prescription medications and a basic first-aid kit
  • Flashlights, batteries, and a portable phone charger
  • Pet supplies if you have furry or feathered family members
 
3. Secure Your Home
  • Bring in patio furniture, decorations, and anything the wind can carry.
  • Install or check storm shutters (or board windows if needed).
  • Trim trees and branches around your home.
  • Check that your roof, gutters, and drains are in good condition.
 
4. Protect Important Documents
 
Store insurance papers, IDs, and property documents in a waterproof container or upload digital copies to the cloud.
 
5. Check Your Insurance Coverage
  • Review your homeowners policy to make sure it covers wind and flood damage.
  • Take photos or videos of your home and belongings for documentation.
 
6. Stay Informed
  • Download weather alert apps and tune in to trusted local news.
  • Follow updates from FEMA and your local emergency management office.
 
7. After the Storm
  • Stay indoors until officials declare it safe.
  • Be cautious of downed power lines and flooding.
  • Document any damage immediately for insurance claims.

A little preparation now can make all the difference later. Protecting your home is important, but protecting your loved ones always comes first.

Written by Janalene Hiller, REALTOR® Starkey Home Group | Real Broker, LLC

📞 813-722-7653 📧 sold@starkeyhomegroup.com 🌐 starkeyhomegroup.com

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