Staying Prepared During Hurricane Season

by Jax Luxe Group

How to Protect Your Home & Family

Hurricane season has arrived in Florida, lasting from June 1st - November 30th, it's crucial to stay ahead of the game and take proactive measures to prepare for any potential storms. Ensuring the safety of your home and family requires early planning and awareness. By taking steps now, you can significantly reduce risks and be better equipped to handle any challenges that come our way this season.

Here's some essential tips and resources to help you get ready. From securing your property to creating an emergency plan, these steps will help keep you and your loved ones safe throughout the season. Let’s face this hurricane season together with confidence and peace of mind. Stay prepared and stay safe!

Develop an Emergency Plan

Before hurricane season arrives, create a comprehensive emergency plan for your household. Discuss evacuation routes, designate a safe room within your home, and establish a communication plan to keep your family connected during the storm. Keep important documents, such as insurance policies and identification, in a waterproof and easily accessible place.

Prepare Emergency Kit

Your kit should include supplies you may need at home as well as a "go kit" if you must evacuate quickly. Include items members of your family may need for several days, including essential supplies such as non-perishable food, drinking water, flashlights, batteries, a first aid kit, medications, and important documents. Make sure to include Keep in an accessible location. Don't forget supplies for your pet too!

Check Insurance Coverage & Polices

Ensure your homeowners' insurance policy provides adequate coverage for potential hurricane-related damages. Review the terms, limitations, and exclusions. Get flood insurance, as standard policies often exclude it. National Flood Insurance Program covers actions to reduce pre-flood damage.

Back Up Important Documents

Make sure your insurance policies and personal documents, like IDs, are up to date. Make copies and keep them in a secure password protected digital space. It's not too late to create a plan with your family. Visit Ready.gov/plan and use the new "Make a Plan" fillable form to walk you through all the steps to begin your plan and then easily save an electronic copy, or share with other family members.

Secure Your Home

Check Your Roof: Schedule an inspection for any loose or damaged shingles, tiles, or flashing. A roof is the most vulnerable place during a hurricane.

Secure Windows and Doors: Install storm shutters or impact-resistant windows to protect against flying debris and high winds. Reinforce doors with deadbolts or hurricane-resistant entry systems (including your garage).

Check Drainage System: Clear debris from gutters, downspouts, and drainage systems.

Yard Maintenance

Trim trees and remove dead branches to minimize the risk of falling limbs during high winds. Secure outdoor furniture, grills, and other loose items by either bringing them indoors or anchoring them securely. Move potted plants and lightweight garden decor to a safe area.

Check on Neighbors

As you prepare your family and loved ones for a disaster, check on neighbors and folks in your community. See if they need assistance with preparing their home and provide these tips with them to help ensure they're safe. Exchange contact information to stay in touch during the storm.

Stay Informed

Monitor weather updates and stay informed about approaching storms through local news, emergency alerts, and official channels. Follow evacuation orders if necessary, and never underestimate the power and unpredictability of a hurricane. Your safety and that of your loved ones should always be the top priority. Download the FEMA app for live updates.