How to Prepare Your Home for Hurricane Season

Hurricane preparation involves securing your property both inside and outside, from trimming trees and boarding windows to stocking emergency supplies and creating an evacuation plan.

1. Clear Projectiles and Debris. Walk around your property and identify trees with dead or weak branches that could become projectiles. Trim these back at least 6 feet from your house, power lines, and neighbor's property. Remove or secure any outdoor furniture, decorations, grills, and toys. Clear gutters and drains of debris so water can flow freely during heavy rains.
2. Fortify Your Roof Now. Check for loose, damaged, or missing shingles and repair them immediately. Look for gaps around vents, chimneys, and flashing where wind could get underneath. Consider installing hurricane straps or clips to better secure your roof to the frame if your home doesn't already have them.
3. Board Up Entry Points. Install permanent storm shutters or cut plywood panels to fit each window and door. Pre-drill holes and label each piece so installation goes quickly when a storm approaches. For sliding doors, place a reinforcing bar in the track. Check that all exterior doors close and lock securely.
4. Reinforce Garage Entry. Garage doors are often the weakest point in a home's envelope. Install a garage door brace kit or horizontal reinforcement system. Check that the door tracks are properly secured to the frame. If you have an automatic opener, know how to manually operate the door if power goes out.
5. Protect Your Records. Gather copies of insurance policies, identification, medical records, bank information, and property deeds. Store them in a waterproof container or sealed plastic bags. Take photos or video of your home's interior and belongings for insurance purposes. Keep digital copies on a cloud service or external drive.
6. Gather Three-Day Supplies. Build a supply kit with one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, non-perishable food for three days, battery-powered or hand-crank radio, flashlights, extra batteries, first aid kit, medications, cash, and personal hygiene items. Don't forget supplies for pets.
7. Power Up and Connect. If you have a generator, test it now and ensure you have adequate fuel stored safely outside. Charge all electronic devices and consider getting portable battery packs. Program emergency numbers into your phone and establish an out-of-state contact person for family check-ins.
8. Map Your Exit Routes. Know your evacuation zone and multiple routes out of your area. Identify where you'll go - whether a friend's house, hotel, or shelter. Practice the route with your family. Keep your car's gas tank full during hurricane season and have an emergency kit in your vehicle.