Your Guide to Hurricane Preparedness

Imagine news outlets have issued a hurricane warning. The skies might be clear, but a dangerous storm could be less than 48 hours away. Your mind races with questions: Will a hurricane actually hit? Am I truly ready?

This hurricane preparedness guide will walk you through essential actions to take before, during, and after a hurricane, so you and your loved ones stay safe and protected.

Before the Storm: Hurricane Preparation

Hurricanes are slow-moving systems with an average length of 12 days.¹ Make sure to stock up on important supplies and take the proper actions to prep your home. It’s also wise to know what you have in your home and set yourself up for success by knowing where important documents are before the severe weather arrives. Read on for your hurricane preparedness checklist.

Note: It is important to note that once a hurricane is imminent, it is too late to buy or modify flood and/or wind insurance policies. Keep in mind that wind and flood coverage usually require a waiting period.

Build Your Hurricane Emergency Kit

• Have at least a three-day supply of water, non-perishable food, and medications for each person.
• Keep flashlights, batteries, first-aid supplies, and a battery-powered radio on hand.
• Include essentials like masks, cash, ID copies, and a phone charger. Set aside pet supplies and portable power banks too.
• Keep your emergency kit in a waterproof bag and update it monthly.

Protect your Home and Property

• Install hurricane shutters and board up windows.
• Bring patio furniture and outdoor items indoors.
• Trim dead tree limbs and secure loose objects.
• Anchor fuel tanks and other hazardous items.

Gather and Waterproof Important Documents.

• Store documents like insurance policies, ID, medical records, and financial info in a sealed waterproof container.
• Keep vet records and vaccination proof handy as shelters may require them.
• Make a list of emergency contacts.
• Make sure you know the best evacuation routes for your area.

Create a Home Inventory

• Makle a list of valuable items in your home.
• Take photos or video of each room and valuable item.
• Record serial numbers for electronics and appliances to help with insurance claims.

Evacuate If Advised

• If you live in a low-lying area or mobile home, be prepared to leave early.
• Keep a packed “go-bag” ready for each family member, including pets.
• Stay tuned to reliable news outlets for the latest information.

During the Storm: Hurricane Safety Tips

Stay Informed 

• Enable Wireless Emergency Alerts on your mobile device.
• Monitor local radio or news updates for real-time developments.
• Plan ahead and share information with friends and family.

Shelter in Place if Advised

• Stay in an interior, windowless room and cover yourself with a mattress for protection.
• If available, wear a helmet.
• Move to higher ground if flooding begins.
• Avoid floodwaters — even one foot can sweep away a vehicle.
• Never assume the storm is over when the eye passes. There is a 20- to 40-mile area of sunny calm² in the center of the storm that may lull you into thinking the storm is over.

Note: Inland areas are not immune. Hurricanes can cause dangerous flooding and winds miles inland. Stay alert regardless of your location.

After the Storm: Recovery and Insurance Claims

Return Home Cautiously and Document the Damage

• Only re-enter your property after official clearance.
• Watch for structural damage, gas leaks, and downed power lines.
• Take photos of damage and make temporary repairs to prevent further loss.
• Contact your insurance carrier promptly — filing deadlines may apply.
• Check your car. Damage from hail or flooding may be covered, depending on your policy.

Avoid Post-Storm Dangers

• Watch for loose debris, unsafe buildings, and contaminated water.
• Drink bottled water until tap water is declared safe.
• Never use a generator indoors due to the threat of carbon monoxide.

File an Insurance Claim

• First make sure you’re safe. Then worry about filing a claim.
• Review your coverage, especially if you’re displaced. Some policies include living expenses if your home is uninhabitable.
• Reach out to your insurance provider.

Start Preparing for the Next Hurricane

Schedule an Insurance Review

• Ensure you’re covered for wind and flood damage — these usually require separate policies.
• Ask about roof schedule endorsement, which can reduce your compensation based on roof age.
• Consider extra coverage for high-value belongings.

Make Home Improvements

• Buy storm protection supplies early (for example, plywood and shutters).
• Install sewer backflow valves and reinforce your garage door, often a common weak point of your home.
• If renting, ask your landlord about additional protections.

Maintain Your Hurricane Emergency Plan and Kit

• Talk with your family about where you’ll shelter and how to reunite if separated.
• Identify safe meeting points and out-of-town contacts.
• Update food, meds, and supplies monthly.

Stay Ready and Enjoy Peace of Mind

Storms are inevitable, but panic doesn’t have to be. By thinking ahead, you can face hurricane season with confidence. Start preparing today to protect your home, your health, and your peace of mind.