Hurricane Safety Tips in Florida

Floridians are no stranger to the threats of hurricane season; from 2012 to 2022, 28 named storms have hit Florida. The Atlantic hurricane season lasts from June to November, with the peak season from mid-August to late October.  

Hurricane preparation should be a top-of-mind concern, particularly as the second, more active part of season begins. Consider the following suggestions as you review your hurricane preparations.  

What to Do Before a Hurricane 
To prepare for a hurricane, take the following measures: 

• Build an emergency kit and make a family communications plan. Make sure you have 3 gallons of water per family member.
• Stock up on bottled water, canned goods, manual can/bottle opener, flashlights, battery-operated radio, nails, tarps and plywood.
• Keep an up-to-date log of all of your possessions with photographs and videos, and review your home insurance policy.
• Learn the elevation level of your property and whether the land is flood-prone. Identify levees and dams in your area and determine whether they pose a hazard. This will help you know how your property may be affected when a storm surge or tidal flooding is forecasted.
• Learn community hurricane evacuation routes and how to find higher ground. Determine where you would go and how you would get there if you needed to evacuate.
• Refill your prescriptions, fill up your car with gas and withdraw a week’s worth of cash since power outages may temporarily interrupt these services.
• Cover all of your home’s windows. Permanent storm shutters offer the best protection for windows. A second option is to board windows with 5/8-inch marine plywood, cut to fit and ready to install. Tape does not prevent windows from breaking.
• Bring in all outdoor furniture, decorations, garbage cans and anything else that is not tied down. 

What to Do During a Hurricane 
If a hurricane is likely in your area, you should do the following: 

• Listen to your battery-operated radio for instructions from the local authorities on evacuation and safety guidelines.
• Seek shelter in an interior room away from windows, such as a closet. If you hear the winds subside, do not assume the storm is over. The calm may be the eye of the storm, meaning the worst part is yet to come.
• If the electricity goes out, use a flashlight to see; do not use candles. 

What to Do After a Hurricane 
In the aftermath of a hurricane, follow these tips: 

• Continue listening to the radio or the local news for the latest updates. If you evacuated, return home only when officials say it is safe.
• Stay alert for extended rainfall and subsequent flooding, even after the hurricane or tropical storm has ended.
• Watch your pets closely and keep them under your direct control. Watch out for wild animals, especially poisonous snakes. 
• If you have become separated from your family, use your family communications plan or contact the American Red Cross at 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767).
• Keep away from loose or dangling power lines and report them immediately to the power company.
• Inspect your home for damage. Take pictures of damage, both of the building and its contents, for insurance purposes. If you have any doubts about safety, have your residence inspected by a qualified building inspector or structural engineer before entering. 

Let Us Help You Prepare 
The Insurance Store USA LLC, is here to help you navigate your home insurance needs and make sure you’re adequately prepared for a hurricane. Give us a call today to get started.