Living in North Florida is a joy—but every summer, hurricane season reminds us that preparation is not just smart, it’s crucial. After 19 years in the area, I’ve helped countless families protect their homes and community, and I’m always looking to share actionable, up-to-date advice that really makes a difference.
Whether you’re a new resident or a seasoned Floridian, here is your comprehensive, practical guide—with links and actionable insights—to hurricane preparation.
1. Start With a Plan—Begin Before the Storm
Why it matters: The earlier you plan, the less you’ll stress when the forecast turns serious. Start now:
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Know your evacuation zone: Visit Flagler County Emergency Management or Florida Disaster.org to find your exact zone and evacuation route.
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Bookmark trusted weather info: For the latest local alerts, use:
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Develop a communication plan: Make sure family and close friends know your storm plan.
2. Test & Prep Your Generator (Before You Need It)
If you own a generator, run it now—not when the storm is already on the radar.
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Check oil, gas, spark plugs, and cords.
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Run the generator under load for 15–20 minutes, outdoors, to be sure it works reliably.
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Stock extra fuel safely (and label non-ethanol if needed).
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Remind neighbors: never run a generator indoors!
3. Fortify and Secure Your Home
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Roof: Have a pro inspect for loose shingles or damage and repair as needed.
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Windows/doors: Ensure your storm shutters work, or pre-cut and label plywood for every opening now.
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Garage door: Reinforce it—a common failure point.
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Gutters/drains: Clear them and direct flow away from the foundation.
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Check sump pumps (if you have one): Test now so you’re not caught off guard.
Pro tip: Take photos and videos of your home (inside and out) to document it for insurance—bonus if you email them to yourself for remote backup.
4. Storm Prep for the Yard and Vehicles
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Trim branches away from the roof and power lines.
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Put away or anchor outdoor furniture, grills, planters, and loose yard items.
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Park your car on high ground if possible, away from trees.
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Fill your gas tank early—stations often run out right before a storm.
5. Stock Up—Don’t Wait Until Shelves Are Empty
Emergency supplies should include:
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Water (one gallon per person per day for at least 3–5 days)
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Non-perishable foods, manual can opener
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Batteries, flashlights, headlamps, and portable chargers (charge them in advance)
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First aid kit, prescription meds, glasses/contacts, pet supplies
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Sanitation/hygiene items, baby needs if applicable
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Copies of important documents—store them in a waterproof bag
Extra:
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If you have electric garage doors, locate the manual release and practice opening it.
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Fill bathtubs with water for washing or flushing toilets if city water service is interrupted.
6. Stay Informed and Connected
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Sign up for local text/email emergency alerts: Flagler Emergency Notifications
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Portable radio: Old school, but still works if the power/cell towers are out.
7. Help Each Other—Community Is Key
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Check on elderly neighbors or those with special needs.
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Share preparedness info and resources—sometimes one good tip saves a lot of stress.
Last Words from a Local
If you’re ready now, you’ll never have to fight the last-minute crowd. Hurricane prep isn’t just good for property—it’s good for peace of mind. If you have questions about your home’s vulnerabilities, need a contractor referral, or just want to double-check your insurance, call, text, or email me personally.
Stay safe, be proactive, and remember: We’re in this together, North Florida!
Want a personalized prep checklist for your property? Shoot me a message—happy to help.
