Florida’s hurricane season lasts from June 1 through November 30. Whether you’re new to the the Sunshine State or you’ve weathered a Florida hurricane or two in the past, proper preparation is key to your safety and to protect your family and property. Here’s a helpful checklist that you can use to protect your loved ones and Florida home in case of a storm.
Important documents such as I.D., insurance policies, etc. in a waterproof container
Extra clothes & rain gear
Food and Water Checklist
Bottled water — One gallon per person, per day, for 3 to 7 days
Bottled juice
Two coolers — for food and drinks
Nonperishable food items — a 3 to 7-day supply
Kitchen supplies — Manual can opener, cups, plates, eating utensils
House Checklist
Protect your windows - Permanent shutters are the best protection, but a lower-cost approach is to pre-cut and drill plywood panels. Label the panels so you know which panels are for which windows and have holes pre-drilled in the exterior walls for easy installation.
Trim trees and shrubs.
Remove all outdoor items — yard decorations, patio furniture, grills, and garbage cans can easily be blown around by strong winds.
Move furniture away from windows — if your home has a second level, also consider moving items upstairs.
Plastic wrap furniture.
Take inventory of the contents in your home.
Store important documents such as inventory lists, vehicle titles, mortgage documents, birth certificates, etc. in waterproof containers.
Turn the fridge and freezer to the coldest settings - According to foodsafety.gov, a refrigerator will keep food cold for about 4 hours if the door is left closed and a full freezer will hold its temperature for about 48 hours. If power is lost, turn off major appliances to reduce power surge when electricity is restored.
Medical Checklist
First Aid kit
Medic-alert tags
Insect-repellent sprays
Sunscreen
Hygiene items
Medications
Baby items — medicines, soaps, thermometer, etc.
Bandages
Adhesive tape
Antiseptic solution
Pet Care Checklist
Water — a 3 to 7-day supply
Food — a 3 to 7-day supply
Updated shot/medical records
Any medications, including heartworm preventatives
Before hurricane season rushes in, know the emergency radio stations that will broadcast storm-related information; NOAA has a helpful broadcast list on their website. FEMA has also created an app to help you know what to do before, during, and after a hurricane. The app gives you weather alerts in your area, lifesaving tips, and access to disaster resources.
As a Florida homebuilder with more than 20 years of experience building quality homes in Florida, we understand Florida's storm potential and build our homes to meet or exceed the latest building codes to help protect your family and home in case of a storm. Creating a checklist and preparing for a storm beforehand is the best way to make certain that you and your family have the opportunity to enjoy your new home for years to come. To learn more about our company and dedication to providing you a quality new home, designed for your safety and security, visit www.HighlandHomes.org.