Take These Steps to Be Prepared for a Hurricane

If you purchase a new home in the southeast United States, it’s likely you’ll eventually have to deal with hurricanes. After you purchase a new home, one of the first things you’ll want to do is prepare for what to do when a big storm comes.

Preparing your home for a hurricane can help keep your loved ones safe and protect your property. Here’s a practical step-by-step guide to help you get ready when a hurricane is approaching:

1. Stay Informed

• Monitor Weather Updates: Follow the National Hurricane Center¹, local news, or a weather app for real-time updates.
• Know Evacuation Routes: Be familiar with local evacuation routes and have a plan in place.
  
  

2.  Secure Windows and Doors

• Install Storm Shutters: If you have storm shutters, deploy them. If not, use 5/8" plywood to board up windows.
• Reinforce Doors: Ensure exterior doors are secure, and garage doors are braced or reinforced.
  
  

3. Bring Outdoor Items Inside

• Move Loose Objects: Bring in patio furniture, garbage cans, potted plants, and anything that could become a projectile.
• Trim Trees and Shrubs: Cut weak branches and clear dead limbs to minimize wind damage.
  
  

4. Prevent Flood Damage

• Clear Gutters and Drains: Make sure gutters, downspouts, and drains are unclogged so water can flow freely.
• Use Sandbags or Flood Barriers: Place them around doors and vulnerable areas if flooding is expected.
• Elevate Valuables: Move important items and electronics to higher ground or upper floors.
  
  

5. Check Emergency Supplies

• Assemble a Hurricane Kit: Include water (1 gallon/person/day for at least 3 days), non-perishable food, medications, flashlight, batteries, first aid kit, and important documents in waterproof containers.
• Fuel and Power: Fill up gas tanks, and charge phones and power banks. If you have a generator, test it and ensure you have fuel and operate it safely outdoors.
  
  

6. Review Insurance and Documents

• Check Your Policy: Ensure your home insurance is up to date and covers hurricane or flood damage.
• Document Your Property: Take photos or videos of your home and belongings for insurance claims.
  
  

7. Prepare to Evacuate or Shelter in Place

• Evacuation Plan: Know where you'll go and how you’ll get there if authorities advise evacuation.
• Shelter-in-Place Plan: Identify the safest room (ideally a small, windowless, interior room on the lowest floor) to wait out the storm.
  
  

8. Power Down When Necessary

• Unplug Electronics: Reduce the risk of damage from power surges.
• Turn Off Utilities (if instructed): Follow local guidance on whether to shut off gas, water, or electricity.

Child-Specific Hurricane Prep Tips

1. Involve Kids in the Prep

• Assign age-appropriate tasks (e.g., gathering toys or snacks).
• Explain what's happening in a calm, reassuring way to reduce fear.
  
  

2. Create a Comfort Kit

Pack a small bag or bin for each child with:

• Favorite toys, books, or stuffed animals
• Games or coloring books (non-electronic)
• Headphones if you have a tablet for quiet distractions
• A nightlight or flashlight with extra batteries
  
  

3. Emergency Supplies for Kids

Include in your main hurricane kit:

• Diapers, wipes, and baby formula (if needed)
• Extra clothes and shoes
• Medications or medical equipment
• Copies of immunization and medical records in a waterproof bag
• Child ID (wristbands with name, age, contact info if separated during evacuation)
  
  

4. Keep a Routine

If sheltering in place or evacuating:

• Try to maintain regular meal and sleep times.
• Stick to familiar snacks and meals to reduce stress and upset stomachs

Pet-Specific Hurricane Prep Tips

Prepare a Pet Emergency Kit

Include:

• Food and water (3–7 days’ supply)
• Bowls, leashes, litter box, and litter
• Carrier or crate with ID tags
• Waste bags or litter disposal supplies
• Medications and a copy of vet records
• A favorite toy or blanket for comfort
  
  

Microchip and ID

• Make sure pets are microchipped and wearing a collar with up-to-date contact info
• Attach a tag with your evacuation location if known
  
  

Know Pet-Friendly Shelters

• Not all shelters accept pets. Identify in advance:
• Pet-friendly hotels
• Local animal shelters offering emergency boarding
• Friends/family willing to take pets
  
  

Evacuate with Your Pets

• Never leave pets behind. If it’s not safe for you, it’s not safe for them.
• Transport pets in secure carriers, with leash/harness ready in case they need to exit quickly.

Be Ready for the Storm

Begin preparations as soon as a hurricane watch is issued, not when it's already too close. Acting early can make a significant difference in minimizing damage and keeping your family safe. Remember, not all hurricanes are the same, so it’s best to always prepare for the worst-case scenarios.

Hurricane Preparation FAQ

How do I know if I’m in an area susceptible to hurricanes?

Research your area’s history to find out if hurricanes are an occasional or rare event in your area. Take extra precautions if your home is located in or near a floodplain since flooding and water damage are often the most common consequences of a hurricane.

When is hurricane season?

Hurricane season starts June 1 and ends November 30, though of course that is a general time frame. Hurricanes happen most often in August and October.

What’s the difference between a hurricane watch and a hurricane warning?

• A hurricane watch indicates that hurricane conditions, characterized by sustained winds of 74 miles per hour (mph) or more, are possible in a specified region. This is the time to start your planning. Authorities announce hurricane watches 48 hours before strong winds arrive. These winds can range from 39 to 73 mph.
  
  
• A hurricane warning is more critical. It signifies that hurricane-force winds are expected in a designated area. This is the time to act before the coming storm. Experts issue these warnings 36 hours before tropical-storm-force winds are expected.