As we head into another hurricane season here in the heart of Florida, preparation brings peace of mind. I’ve broken our family’s strategy down into four easy-to-digest steps. My hope is that I can help you get your home and family ready without the overwhelm. Bookmark this page as your checklist!
First: Family Food & Water
- Water: 1 gallon per person/pet per day (focus 3 days minimum, up to 14 days)
- Proteins: canned tuna, chicken, and nut butters
- Ready-to-eat: Pop-top soups, canned vegetables, and chilies
- Energy Snacking: Protein bars, nuts, trail mix
- The Lifesavers: a manual can opener, trash bags, instant coffee, powdered milk
Second: Secure Home, Yard & Vehicles
- The Yard: Bring in patio furniture, potted plants, yard art and flags
- The Vehicles: Fill gas tanks early and park away from trees or power lines.
- Openings: check window shutters, secure garage doors, and clear debris from gutters
- The “Anchor” Prep: Grab extra bags of ice to pack your freezer (or ice chest) tight so things stay cold longer if the power goes out.
- Outdoor Pets: Ensure outside animals have a secure, dry, indoor fallback space ready to go.
Third: Waiting out the storm – without boredom!
- Powerless Play: Stash a deck of cards, board games, and physical books where they are easy to grab.
- Tech Backup: Fully charge all phones, tablets, and portable power banks before the outer bands arrive.
- Kid & Teen Kits: Keep a hidden stash of new coloring books, craft supplies, or small puzzles for peak restlessness.
- Audio Comfort: download audiobooks, podcasts, or music playlists directly to devices so you don’t need cellular data.
- Light the Night: Give everyone their own personal flashlight or headlamp so moving around in the dark feels safe.
Fourth: Cleaning up & Helping out
- Safety First: Watch for downed power lines, standing water, and hidden debris before stepping outside.
- Assess & Document: Take quick photos of any property damage immediately for insurance records.
- Clear the Path: focus on clearing debris from walkways and driveways safely so neighbors can get through
- Check on Neighbors: Knock on doors to check on the elderly, solo neighbors, or those with pets.
- The Gentle Anchor: Keep extra trash bags, work gloves, or bottles of water handy to share with anyone working outside.