Whether we like it or not, hurricane season is about to arrive. As Floridians, we know better than to wait until the last minute to get ready. Early preparation is key! While local officials do a great job sharing information about sandbag sites, shelters, and evacuation plans in the days leading up to a storm, there’s plenty you can take care of now to get your home ready ahead of time.
Start with a walkthrough of your property—both indoors and out—and note any areas that might need securing, fixing or reinforcing before a storm hits:
1. Roof – Take a close look at your roof, or have a trusted local roofer inspect it. If it’s more than 10 years old, check for loose shingles or worn areas that may need attention. After any strong storm, it’s smart to recheck the roof for new damage. And remember—safety first. Never climb above your ladder’s safe standing level and use proper equipment or call for professional help if you’re not comfortable venturing up there.
2. Gutters – Clean out any debris like twigs or leaves, and ensure all gutter sections are securely fastened. Most are attached with screws, so a quick check with a screwdriver can go a long way.
3. Garage doors – Examine each bracket and connection point to make sure everything is tightly secured. Seals along the bottom should be flush with the floor to keep water out.
4. Yard –
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- Decide now where you’ll store outdoor furniture, tools, and décor to keep them from becoming airborne projectiles during a storm. A garage or indoor space is ideal.
- Inspect your trees for dead or loose limbs that could break off in high winds. Prune as needed. Spring is a great time to do it to keep trees strong and healthy.
For more hurricane preparation resources, check out the National Weather Service’s guide here or sign up for one of our upcoming Habitat U Disaster Preparedness/Home Insurance classes.
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