Preparing Your Home for an Incoming Hurricane: Smart, Practical Tips

When a hurricane is approaching, getting your home ready is crucial, especially in hurricane-prone areas like Florida. Preparation can help protect your property, keep your family safe, and minimize damage. Whether you’re new to Florida or a seasoned resident, here are some practical and budget-friendly ways to prepare for an incoming hurricane.

1. Secure Windows and Doors

Hurricane-force winds can cause significant damage to your home’s openings, so it’s essential to secure all windows and doors. If you don’t have storm shutters, using plywood to board up windows is a reliable and cost-effective solution. Make sure to measure and cut the wood beforehand, so it’s ready to install quickly when a storm is on its way. Remember to secure sliding glass doors, as they can be especially vulnerable to strong winds.

2. Clear Your Yard of Potential Projectiles

Loose items like outdoor furniture, potted plants, or even toys can become dangerous projectiles in high winds. Store these items inside or in your garage. If you have trees or bushes, trim any dead or overhanging branches that could break off and cause damage to your home or vehicles.

3. Use Pool Noodles to Block Drafts Under Doors

Pool noodles come in handy beyond swimming! Cut them to fit under your doors to prevent water from blowing in during a storm. It’s a cheap, simple hack that can stop minor flooding or leaks.

4. Prepare Snacks and Use Coolers Strategically

Power outages are a common occurrence during hurricanes, so having food ready is key. Prepare snacks in advance—think granola bars, canned fruits, nuts, and fresh fruit that doesn’t require refrigeration. Additionally, stock your coolers with a couple of days’ worth of perishables to avoid opening and closing the fridge frequently. For longer-lasting food preservation, use one cooler for items that will be consumed soon and keep the fridge and other coolers closed as much as possible to maintain cool temperatures.

5. Get a Small Gas-Powered Stove or Grill

Without electricity, cooking can become a challenge. A small gas-powered stove or grill can come in handy for heating meals or boiling water. Make sure you have extra propane or gas on hand, and always use these devices outdoors in a well-ventilated area.

6. Fill All Containers with Water

Water is a precious resource post-hurricane, especially if water lines are disrupted or contaminated. Fill up bathtubs, buckets, pots, and any available containers with water before the storm hits. This water can be used for drinking, cooking, or cleaning if necessary. Don’t forget your pets—they’ll need water too.

7. Store Important Documents in Waterproof Containers

Make sure all your important documents, such as insurance papers, birth certificates, and medical records, are safely stored in waterproof containers. This will protect them from water damage in case of flooding.

8. Use Your Washing Machine as a Cooler

Here’s a clever hack: if your washing machine is empty, it can be a great cooler! It’s insulated and drains easily, so you can fill it with ice and store beverages and perishables in it. The ice will melt, and the machine will naturally drain the water—saving your fridge for more sensitive items.

9. Gas Up and Stock Up

As soon as you know a hurricane is coming, fill your gas tank. Long lines and gas shortages are common before a storm. It’s also a good idea to have some cash on hand, as credit card machines might not work during power outages.

10. Charge Everything and Have Backup Power

Charge all of your devices—phones, tablets, portable chargers, etc.—ahead of time. Consider investing in a backup battery pack or a small generator to keep essential items powered, such as your phone or small appliances, during an outage.

Final Thoughts

Preparing your home for a hurricane is all about thinking ahead. By taking these steps before the storm hits, you’ll be better prepared to handle its aftermath. Whether it’s securing windows, stocking up on food and water, or using practical hacks like pool noodles and washing machines, every small step can make a big difference in your safety and comfort.

Stay safe, stay prepared, and remember, hurricane season is an annual reality for Floridians, but smart planning makes all the difference!

Resources: 

Check out Ready.gov for up to date guidance on keeping your family safe before, during and after a storm.