As we approach the peak of hurricane season, ensuring your home and family are prepared for potential storms is crucial. Proper planning and preparation can significantly reduce the risks and damage caused by hurricanes.
We hope this step-by-step guide and checklist will assist in getting you and your family prepared, organized, and ready for this hurricane season.
Step 1 – Create an Emergency Plan
- Family Communication Plan: Ensure everyone knows how to reach each other and where to meet if separated.
- Evacuation Routes: Identify multiple routes and destinations in case you need to leave your home.
- Emergency Contacts: Keep a list of emergency contacts, including local authorities, medical facilities, and family members.
Step 2 – Build an Emergency Kit
- Water: At least one gallon per person per day for at least three days.
- Food: A three-day supply of non-perishable food items.
- Medications: A seven-day supply of prescription and over-the-counter medications.
- First Aid Kit: Basic supplies including bandages, antiseptic, and pain relievers.
- Flashlights and Batteries: Ensure you have extra batteries on hand.
- Radio: A battery-powered or hand-crank radio to stay informed about weather updates.
- Important Documents: Copies of insurance policies, identification, and bank records in a waterproof container.
Step 3 – Secure Your Home
- Windows and Doors: Install storm shutters or board up windows with plywood. Reinforce doors and ensure they are secure.
- Roof and Gutters: Check for loose shingles and clear gutters of debris to prevent water damage.
- Yard Maintenance: Trim trees and shrubs to reduce the risk of branches damaging your home. Secure outdoor furniture and other loose items.
- Generators: If you have a generator, ensure it is in good working condition and you have sufficient fuel.
Step 4 – Review Insurance Policies
- Coverage: Confirm your homeowners’ insurance policy covers hurricane damage. Consider flood insurance if you live in a flood-prone area. REMEMBER YOU CANNOT CHANGE OR ADD TO YOUR POLICY IF THE STORM IS ALREADY IN THE GULF AND NAMED.
- Documentation: Take photos or videos of your home and belongings for insurance claims.
Step 5 – Stay Informed
- Weather Alerts: Sign up for local weather alerts and stay tuned to local news for updates.
- Evacuation Orders: Follow the instructions of local authorities regarding evacuations.
Hurricane Preparedness Checklist
| Task | Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
Emergency Plan: |
||
| Family Communication Plan | ☐ Done | |
| Evacuation Routes Identified | ☐ Done | |
| Emergency Contacts List | ☐ Done | |
Emergency Kit: |
||
| Water Supply | ☐ Done | |
| Non-perishable Food Supply | ☐ Done | |
| Medications | ☐ Done | |
| First Aid Kit | ☐ Done | |
| Flashlights and Extra Batteries | ☐ Done | |
| Battery-powered/Hand-crank Radio | ☐ Done | |
| Important Documents Secured | ☐ Done | |
Home Security: |
||
| Storm Shutters/Boarding Windows | ☐ Done | |
| Reinforce Doors | ☐ Done | |
| Roof and Gutters Checked | ☐ Done | |
| Yard Maintained | ☐ Done | |
| Outdoor Items Secured | ☐ Done | |
| Generator Checked and Fueled | ☐ Done | |
Insurance: |
||
| Review Homeowners’ Insurance | ☐ Done | |
| Consider Flood Insurance | ☐ Done | |
| Document Home and Belongings | ☐ Done | |
Stay Informed: |
||
| Sign Up for Weather Alerts | ☐ Done | |
| Monitor Local News | ☐ Done |
Preparing your home for a hurricane requires thorough planning and proactive measures. By following this guide and using the fillable checklist, you can ensure that your home and family are well-prepared to weather any storm. Remember, the key to hurricane preparedness is staying informed and taking action well before the storm hits. Stay safe and be prepared!
