Fall in Florida may not bring falling leaves, but it does bring the height of hurricane season. While hurricane season officially runs from June 1 through November 30, the peak months are August through October. This is the time to stay the most vigilant and prepared.
We’ve also learned that every hurricane is different. Hurricane Ian (2022) devastated coastal areas with storm surge and wind damage, while Hurricane Irma (2017) caused widespread flooding inland. These storms remind us that whether you live near the coast or further inland, every Floridian needs to prepare.
Being proactive now can protect your home, keep your family safe, and give you peace of mind.
1. Build a Complete Hurricane Supply Kit
A supply kit should allow you and your family to be self-sufficient for at least 3–7 days, and ideally up to two weeks. Think through what you’d need if power, water, and stores were unavailable.
Water & Food
-
One gallon of water per person, per day, for drinking and sanitation
-
Extra water for pets
-
Non-perishable canned foods such as tuna, beans, soups, vegetables, and fruit
-
Ready-to-eat items like peanut butter, crackers, granola bars, trail mix, and nuts
-
Dried fruit and powdered drink mixes
-
Baby food, infant formula, and bottles if needed
-
Comfort foods like cookies or instant coffee that help keep spirits up
-
Manual can opener
Health & Safety
-
First-aid kit with bandages, gauze, antiseptic, pain relievers, tweezers, and gloves
-
Prescription medications and medical equipment
-
Over-the-counter medicines like allergy relief, antacids, and cold medicine
-
Face masks, sanitizer, soap, and disinfecting wipes
-
Sunscreen and insect repellent
-
Whistle to signal for help
-
Fire extinguisher
Lighting & Power
-
Flashlights with plenty of spare batteries
-
Battery-powered or hand-crank weather radio
-
Portable chargers and power banks
-
Car chargers for phones and small devices
-
Generator with safely stored fuel (used outdoors only)
-
Solar lanterns or lights
Household & Comfort Items
-
Sturdy shoes, extra clothing, rain gear, and hats
-
Blankets, pillows, and sleeping bags
-
Plastic sheeting and duct tape for emergency repairs
-
Multi-tool or basic tool set (hammer, screwdriver, pliers, wrench)
-
Plastic trash bags for sanitation and cleanup
-
Paper towels, napkins, disposable plates, cups, and utensils
-
Toilet paper, personal hygiene products, feminine supplies
-
Buckets for washing or flushing toilets if water service is interrupted
-
Local maps in case GPS fails
-
Extra keys for home and vehicles
Pets & Children
-
Food and water for pets
-
Medications and vet records in a waterproof bag
-
Carrier, crate, or extra leash and collar
-
Comfort items like toys or blankets
-
For children: diapers, wipes, bottles, rash cream, small toys, coloring books, and games to pass the time
Important Documents
Keep all of these in a waterproof, portable container:
-
Identification (driver’s licenses, passports, birth certificates)
-
Property deeds and insurance policies
-
Vehicle titles and registrations
-
Medical records and prescriptions
-
Bank account information
-
Recent photos of your home and valuables for insurance claims
-
Emergency contact list
Financial Essentials
-
Cash in small bills — ATMs and card readers may be down
-
Extra checks if needed
2. Protecting Your Home Before the Storm
Small steps can greatly reduce potential damage.
-
Install shutters or plywood: Storm shutters are best, but pre-cut plywood can help protect windows.
-
Reinforce garage doors: These are often the weakest point of a house; add bracing or replace with hurricane-rated doors.
-
Trim trees and shrubs: Remove weak branches that could become projectiles.
-
Bring inside outdoor items: Secure furniture, planters, decorations, grills, and anything lightweight.
-
Clear gutters and drains: This helps reduce the risk of flooding from heavy rain.
-
Check your roof: Repair loose shingles and secure straps if needed.
-
Seal openings: Use caulk or weatherproof sealant around doors, windows, and vents.
-
Move valuables and electronics: Elevate them off the floor in case of flooding.
-
Unplug appliances: Helps protect from power surges.
-
Test sump pumps: If you’re in a flood-prone area, make sure pumps and drains are working.
-
Photograph your home and belongings: Good records make insurance claims smoother.
3. Know Your Evacuation Zone & Plan Ahead
Florida counties have designated evacuation zones based on storm surge risk. It’s essential to know yours before a storm threatens.
-
Check your zone through your county emergency management office.
-
Plan where you’ll go: Options include a shelter, a friend or relative’s home, or a hotel inland.
-
Pets matter too: Not all shelters accept them — find pet-friendly shelters in advance.
-
Map multiple routes in case roads are blocked.
-
Fuel up early: Keep your car’s gas tank at least half full during hurricane season.
-
Have a “go bag” ready: Include documents, medications, clothes, cash, and basic supplies in a backpack or suitcase.
4. During the Storm
-
Stay inside and away from windows.
-
Use flashlights, not candles, to prevent fire hazards.
-
Keep your emergency kit nearby.
-
Don’t run a generator indoors or in a garage.
-
Follow local officials’ instructions — do not leave until it’s declared safe.
5. After the Storm
-
Be alert for downed power lines, gas leaks, and standing water.
-
Avoid floodwaters — they can hide debris, snakes, or contamination.
-
Drive only if absolutely necessary and never through flooded roads.
-
Use caution when cleaning up debris — wear gloves and sturdy shoes.
-
Document damage with photos before making repairs.
-
Contact your insurance company as soon as possible.
-
Check on neighbors, especially seniors and families with young children.
Final Thoughts
Fall is Florida’s strongest hurricane season. Preparing now by stocking supplies, protecting your home, and knowing your evacuation zone is the best way to stay safe.
Every hurricane is different. Ian showed us the devastation of coastal surge, while Irma reminded us of inland flooding. Preparing for both helps ensure you’re ready for whatever comes our way.
🌪️ Mother Nature is unpredictable — and when it comes to hurricanes, it’s always better to be safe than sorry.
📍 For official updates, evacuation zone maps, and full preparedness guides, visit:
-
FloridaDisaster.org (Florida Division of Emergency Management)
-
Ready.gov/hurricanes (FEMA’s Hurricane Guide)