Updated July 10th, 2024

Being prepared for a hurricane can help minimize the storm’s impact and speed up the recovery process. While meteorologists typically warn when a hurricane is developing, these storms are unpredictable, and you may not have enough time to get ready. That’s why it’s crucial to take steps to prepare your home and family before a storm is imminent.

If a hurricane doesn’t strike your community this season, your preparation can serve you well for other natural disasters. Keep reading for essential hurricane preparedness tips for before, during, and after the storm.

Preparing for a Hurricane: What to Do Before

With a little planning, you can help protect your home from costly damage caused by the floodwaters and high winds that hurricanes are known for. Here’s how to prepare for a hurricane long before one is in the forecast

Understand Watch and Warning

Make sure you know the difference between a hurricane warning and a hurricane watch. A watch indicates hurricane conditions are possible within 48 hours while a warning means hurricane-force winds are expected to hit your area within 36 hours.

Build an Emergency Kit

Your emergency hurricane supplies list should include key items like flashlights, batteries, drinking water, nonperishable food, extra clothing, prescription medications, and first aid supplies.

Develop a Plan

Make sure everyone in your household knows what to do when a hurricane is approaching, how to communicate with other family members, and where to evacuate to, if necessary.

Make Home Updates

There are a few things you can do around the house to help reduce the damage caused by a hurricane, including:

• Trim tree limbs and remove damaged trees.
• Replace gravel or rock landscaping with shredded bark.
• Ensure your sliding glass doors are made of tempered glass.
• Replace your garage doors with ones approved for high winds.

Take Inventory

Create a detailed list of your home contents and their value. Include pictures and purchase receipts for valuable items, such as electronics, appliances, or jewelry.

Review your insurance

Go over your auto and homeowners insurance policy with your agent to make sure you understand your deductible and coverage details. Talk with your agent about if you need any additional endorsements such as equipment breakdown coverage.

Hurricane Preparedness Tips: What To Do During

Understanding the appropriate actions to take when a hurricane is approaching and after it has made landfall is critical. Floodwaters and blowing debris pose a major risk not only to your home, but also your loved ones. Here are some simple hurricane safety tips to help your family get through the storm and immediate aftermath.

Close Storm Shutters

Lock storm shutters and stay away from windows, as broken glass can be dangerous. If you don’t have shutters, cover your windows with plywood to help protect them.

Utilize Sandbags

If you have adequate time before the storm, place sandbags around the areas near your home that are prone to flooding.

Store Outdoor Items

Patio furniture, grills, potted plants, and other unsecured outdoor objects can get swept up by hurricane winds, so it’s best to bring these items inside your garage, storage shed, or home.

Prepare for Power Outages

Power outages can sometimes last for days, so get your generator ready and fully charge your phone. You should also turn your refrigerator and freezer to their coldest settings to help preserve your food.

Stay Informed

Listen to a battery-operated radio for the latest weather updates. You may also want to download the FEMA mobile app as it offers disaster resources, weather alerts, and safety tips.

Find Higher Ground

If you are outside, move to higher ground. Do not walk, swim, or drive through floodwater as it can quickly sweep you or your car away.

Hurricane Recovery: What To Do After

When preparing for a hurricane, don’t neglect to learn what to do after the storm has passed. By following the steps outlined below, you may be able to avoid further harm to your home.

Ensure Everyone Is Safe

Remain calm and get medical attention for anyone who needs it. You’ll want to avoid walking or driving through floodwaters, especially floodwater that may be electrically charged from power lines.

Mitigate Additional Damage

Make any emergency repairs necessary, such as getting water out and covering broken windows. Be sure to take photos or videos to document the damage.

Contact Your Insurance Company

As soon as you can, contact your agent or insurance company to let them know what’s going on. You may need to file a claim and schedule an appointment with an adjuster.

Get the Coverage You Need

In addition to following our hurricane safety tips, you’ll want to ensure you have adequate homeowners insurance before a hurricane strikes. If you’re interested in a homeowners quote, contact your local agent today.