Hurricane season in Florida officially begins June 1st, but the smartest time to prepare is well before the first storm appears on the radar. Every year, Central Florida faces the possibility of severe weather, and while we can’t control the forecast, we can control how ready we are for it.
Here are some simple, high impact ways to prepare you home, your family, and your neighborhood before hurricane season starts.
1. Check Your Insurance Coverage Now
Don’t wait until a storm is forming to review your policy. Make sure your home owner’s insurance covers wind and water damage. Most standard policies do not include flood coverage, so if you’re in a flood zone and wish to purchase it, you may need to do it seperately through the National Flood Insurance Program.
Take a few minutes to photograph your belongings for documentation and store your policy information both in a digital and printed format to ensure you can access it if you need it.
2. Strengthen Your Home’s Weak Points
- Inspect your roof and gutters for damage or debris.
- Secure or replace loose fencing or outdoor fixtures.
- Trim trees and remove weak or overhanging limbs.
- Install hurricane shutters or check that your window coverings are intact.
- Clean and test your sump pump or drainage systems.
If you’re a new homeowner, reach out to contractors now, as they usually get booked up once a storm is on the way.
2. Strengthen Your Home’s Weak Points
Create a basic hurricane supply kit with these essentials:
- 3–7 days of drinking water (1 gallon per person per day)
- Non-perishable food and manual can opener
- Flashlights, batteries, and a battery-powered radio
- Medications, first-aid kit, and personal hygiene items
- Pet food and care supplies
- Cash in small bills (ATMs may be down)
- Cell phone chargers and power banks
- Copies of important documents (in waterproof bags)
Pro tip: Refresh your kit every May to replace expired food or batteries.
4. Make a Family Communication Plan
When a storm hits, cell service may be unreliable. Make sure everyone in your household knows where to go and who to get in touch with if seperated. Share your plan with neighbors, especially if their elderly and live alone.
5. Stay Informed and Inform Others
Help your community by staying up to date and sharing valuable information with your neighbors and community members. A community is stronger together, and sharing helpful information may result in your neighbor helping you out when the tides turn if you need it. Don’t forget to check on your neighbors and help out when and however you can.
Storms are part of life in Central Florida, but being prepared doesn’t have to be stressful. A little time now cna prevent major headaches later. C.A.F.R.A. is here to help you stay ready, stay connected, and support your community through every season.
Know a neighbor who’s new to Florida? Share this post and help them get ahead of the storm too.
Discover other helpful Resources from C.A.F.R.A.
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