Preparing for hurricane season: Essential tips for homeowners

As summer approaches, it's time to start thinking about hurricane season. Hurricanes can wreak havoc on homes and properties, but with the right preparation, you can minimize the impact and keep your family safe. Here are some practical tips to help you get ready:

1. Review your insurance coverage

Before the storms hit, take a close look at your home insurance policy. Make sure you’re covered for hurricane damage, and check if your policy limits are enough to cover potential losses. Don’t forget about flood insurance – regular home insurance often doesn’t cover flood damage, which is common with hurricanes.

2. Create a family emergency plan

Sit down with your family and develop an emergency plan. This should include evacuation routes, a meeting place, and contact information for everyone. Practice the plan so that everyone knows what to do when a hurricane is imminent.

3. Assemble an emergency kit

Put together an emergency kit with essentials like non-perishable food, water, medications, first-aid supplies, flashlights, batteries, and important documents. Keep this kit in a waterproof container in an easily accessible place.

4. Secure your home

Take steps to protect your home from hurricane damage. Install storm shutters or plywood over windows, reinforce garage doors, and secure outdoor items that could become dangerous in high winds. Trim trees and shrubs to reduce the risk of falling branches.

5. Backup important documents

Make sure important documents, such as insurance policies and identification, are backed up and stored in a safe place. Consider keeping digital copies on a secure cloud service for easy access.

6. Stay informed

Stay updated on weather forecasts and alerts from reliable sources like the National Hurricane Center. Sign up for local emergency notifications to stay informed about potential evacuation orders and other critical information.

7. Prepare your vehicle

Ensure your vehicle is in good working condition and has a full tank of gas. This will be essential if you need to evacuate. Keep an emergency kit in your car, including blankets, snacks, and a first-aid kit.

By taking these steps, you can significantly reduce the risk of damage to your home and ensure your family's safety during hurricane season. Remember, preparation is key to weathering the storm successfully. For more tips and to review your insurance needs, visit AFI.org.