How to Prepare Your Florida Home for a Hurricane

Florida Hurricane Preparedness and Home Preparation Guide

The three main parts of hurricane home preparation are creating a plan, preparing your house, and preparing any vehicles or additional property you may have that may be at risk in the hurricane zone. The first priority of a hurricane preparedness plan is to safeguard you and your family, and then your property.

Understanding Hurricane Season

Hurricane season is a critical period for residents and visitors in Florida, as the state is prone to tropical storms and hurricanes. Understanding the basics of hurricane season can help you prepare and stay safe. Here are some key facts to know:

• Timing: Hurricane season in Florida runs from June 1 to November 30, with the peak season typically between mid-August and mid-October.
• Activity: The Atlantic Hurricane Season is most active from mid-August through mid-October, accounting for 78% of tropical storms, 87% of category 1-2 hurricanes, and 96% of major hurricanes (categories 3-5).
• Classification: Hurricanes are classified into five categories based on their wind speed, central pressure, and potential damage.
• Wind Speeds: Tropical storms have winds that range from 39-73 mph, while hurricanes have winds of 74 mph or higher.

By understanding these key aspects of hurricane season, you can better prepare your home and family for the potential impact of tropical storms and hurricanes.

Preparing Your Home For a Hurricane

Getting reliable Florida home insurance is your #1 priority when preparing your home for a hurricane. Understanding your homeowners insurance coverage for hurricane damage is crucial, as it can help you save thousands of dollars in the event of your home getting damaged by a hurricane, including protection against flood damage.

Installing storm shutters is one of the most effective ways to protect your doors and windows from storm damage, particularly the risk from flying projectiles during high winds. Additionally, securing your roof with hurricane straps, also known as truss tie-downs, can prevent roof damage and ensure structural integrity against fierce winds and lashing rain.

Homeowners insurance plays a key role in mitigating financial losses, especially since flood damage can have a significant and costly impact during hurricanes.

Evaluate your risks

The elevation level of your home is an important factor in determining whether your land is flood-prone. Check your elevation level to see whether it is likely for you to sustain storm surges or tidal flooding.

A flood map from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) can help you see whether you live in a zone with high flooding risks. Florida properties usually have substantial risks of flooding, which impacts everything from flood insurance rates to how homes are built. Considering this, the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) becomes crucial for homeowners in such areas, emphasizing the need for flood insurance, especially in hurricane zones. Learn all about FEMA flood zones.

Cover your windows with hurricane shutters

By covering your home’s windows, you can protect yourself from potential glass breakages and risks of glass shards in your home. The best way to protect your windows is usually to install permanent storm shutters. Another option is to board the windows up with plywood that is cut to fit.

Tape does not usually provide adequate protection when it comes to covering windows.

Roof safety

Unfortunately during hurricane season, many roofs have the risk of being damaged. Instead of having to replace a roof after a hurricane, the damage may be reduced if you install straps or clips to fasten your roof more securely to the house structure.

Trim your trees and clear clogged gutters

Trimming your nearby shrubbery and trees can help them become more wind resistant. If there are tall trees, be aware that they may fall onto your building in case of a severe storm.

Clearing clogged or loose rain gutters and downspouts can also help reduce damage to your property.

Reinforce your garage doors

Wind damage can be extremely serious. Reinforce the doors to your garage to potentially avoid dangerous and expensive structural damages.

Determine which room is the safest

No matter if you have a hurricane shelter area, it is a good idea to determine which room is the safest in your home.

If you reside in a high-rise building, it is recommended that you take shelter below the 10th floor.

Secure your additional property and review flood insurance

If you own additional property and valuables such as a boat, make sure you have a plan in place for securing your boat and storing it before hurricane and tropical storm seasons.

Install an emergency generator

You never know when power might go out, especially during hurricane season in Florida where power outages are a common issue. A safely installed emergency generator can play a crucial role in mitigating the impact of these outages, ensuring you stay safe and comfortable during and after a severe storm.

Staying Informed During Hurricane Season

Staying informed is crucial during hurricane season. Here are some ways to stay up-to-date on the latest weather forecasts and emergency alerts:

• Monitor Local News: Keep an eye on local news and weather reports for updates on tropical storms and hurricanes.
• Sign Up for Alerts: Register for emergency alerts from your local government or weather service to receive timely notifications.
• Use Weather Apps: Download a weather app on your smartphone to receive push notifications and updates directly to your device.
• Follow Official Accounts: Follow official social media accounts from your local government, weather service, and emergency management agency for real-time information.
• Battery-Powered Radio: Keep a battery-powered radio and/or NOAA Weather Radio on hand in case of a power outage, ensuring you stay informed even if the power goes out.

By staying informed, you can make timely decisions and take necessary actions to protect your family and property during hurricane season.

Preparing for Power Outages

Power outages are common during hurricanes and tropical storms. Here are some tips to help you prepare:

• Power Outage Kit: Create a power outage kit with essential items such as flashlights, batteries, and a first aid kit.
• Charge Devices: Ensure your devices and power banks are fully charged in advance of a storm.
• Consider a Generator: Think about purchasing a portable generator or installing a whole-house generator to keep essential appliances running.
• Important Numbers: Keep important phone numbers handy, such as your power company’s emergency number, to report outages and get updates.
• Stay Informed: Stay updated about the status of power outages in your area through your power company’s website or social media accounts.

By preparing for power outages, you can minimize the disruption to your daily life and ensure you have the necessary resources to stay safe and comfortable during and after a storm.

Florida hurricane emergency planning guide

An important part of any hurricane emergency plan is to make sure you and your family have an emergency kit, a communication plan, as well as an evacuation plan. Everyone should be on the same page ahead of time so that in case of an emergency, the proper safety procedures can be made.

It's crucial to heed a hurricane warning to ensure the safety of your family, including pets, and to not be caught unprepared. Additionally, consulting the National Hurricane Center for the most up-to-date information on tropical cyclone developments and forecasts is key to staying informed and making timely decisions during hurricane season.

What should you include in an emergency kit?

An emergency supply kit should be prepared well ahead of time and be kept in a safe location everyone is aware of. Essential supplies should include (but are not limited to):

• Water - at least one gallon per day per person, enough for 3 to 7 days
• Food - nonperishable food for at least 3 to 7 days
• A can opener - for nonperishable foods
• Radio - a radio and an NOAA weather radio with tone alert
• Flashlights
• Extra batteries - for your battery powered devices
• First aid kit
• Medicine and prescription drugs
• Whistle
• Fully-charged cell phones - it is best to have backup battery power as well
• Cash, traveler’s checks, and change - it can be helpful to have small bills and coins
• Dust mask - in case of contaminated air
• Duct tape and plastic sheeting
• Garbage bags, towels, and sanitation items
• Wrench/pliers
• Vehicles - along with fuel and local maps
• Copies of important documents - keep these in waterproof bags. Include information such as your identification documents, insurance policies, and bank account records

Sometimes, a hurricane can hit when you aren’t home or able to access the emergency kit. Keep a kit of emergency supplies in your car, home, and wherever you think one may be necessary. It is always good to be prepared.

What needs to be in an evacuation plan?

Learn about local evacuation routes for hurricanes. Finding higher ground is often key to safety. Discuss with your family where you would go in case of an emergency, as well as how you would get there in case of a hurricane.

What is a hurricane communication plan?

A family and/or friend communication plan is important in case of an emergency. This can include shared information such as where to go in case of a hurricane or tropical storm, evacuation routes, and emergency contact information.

Don't Weather the Storm Alone

Hurricane season is unpredictable. Don't let a storm catch you off guard. Taking these precautions now can save you immense stress and financial loss later. And remember, the right insurance is your ultimate safety net. Get a free quote from Worth Insurance at www.worthinsurance.com and protect your home.