Tips

Emergency preparedness is crucial for seasonal homeowners in Florida, especially given the state’s vulnerability to hurricanes and other weather-related disasters.

Here’s a comprehensive guide to emergency preparedness for seasonal homeowners in Florida:

Before Hurricane Season:

Insurance Review: Ensure that your homeowner’s insurance, flood insurance, and windstorm/hurricane insurance policies are up-to-date and provide adequate coverage.

Create an Emergency Plan: Develop a comprehensive emergency plan that includes evacuation routes, shelter locations, and communication protocols for family members and neighbors.

Emergency Kit: Prepare a well-stocked emergency kit that includes essential supplies such as bottled water, non-perishable food, flashlights, batteries, a first aid kit, important documents, and personal hygiene items.

Secure Your Property: Install hurricane shutters or impact-resistant windows if your property doesn’t already have them. Ensure that your roof, windows, doors, and garage are in good condition and meet hurricane-resistant standards.
Trim trees and bushes to reduce the risk of flying debris during a storm.
Anchor outdoor items or bring them inside to prevent them from becoming projectiles.

Emergency Contacts: Compile a list of emergency contacts, including your home watch service, local authorities, and neighbors. Share this list with trusted individuals.

Evacuation Plans: Familiarize yourself with local evacuation routes and shelters.
Plan how you will evacuate your seasonal home, including transportation and a destination.

During Hurricane Season:

Monitor Weather Alerts: Stay informed about weather conditions and monitor updates from the National Hurricane Center and local authorities.

Secure Important Documents: Safeguard important documents (e.g., insurance policies, identification, property records) in a waterproof container or digital format.

Fuel and Transportation: Maintain a supply of fuel for your vehicle and consider keeping an extra fuel container. Keep your vehicle in good working order, and ensure it has a full tank of gas during hurricane season.

Communication Plan: Keep a battery-powered or hand-crank radio to stay informed if the power goes out. Have a communication plan in place with family members and neighbors.

When a Hurricane or Storm Is Approaching:

Follow Evacuation Orders: If local authorities issue evacuation orders for your area, follow them promptly. Notify your home watch service and neighbors of your departure plans.

Secure Your Property: Close and lock all windows and doors. Secure any loose objects or furniture that could be blown away by strong winds.

After the Storm:

Assess Damage: After the storm passes and it’s safe to do so, assess the condition of your property. Be cautious of downed power lines and other hazards.

Communicate: Check in with your home watch service, neighbors, and loved ones to let them know you’re safe.

Claim Documentation: Document any storm-related damage to your property with photographs and written descriptions for insurance claims.

Utilities and Services: Contact utility companies to report outages or damages.
Arrange for any necessary repairs, including temporary roof repairs to prevent further damage.

Clean Up: Begin the cleanup process by removing debris and securing your property.

Stay Informed: Stay informed about post-storm developments and any ongoing emergency alerts. Emergency preparedness in Florida is a year-round commitment, but taking proactive steps before and during hurricane season can significantly enhance your safety and property protection as a seasonal homeowner. Regularly update your emergency plans and supplies to ensure readiness for any unforeseen disasters.