As hurricane season approaches, it’s vital to be prepared for the worst, even if you live in an area that typically sees minimal impact. While hurricanes can range from minor rainstorms to destructive forces capable of severe damage, preparing ahead of time will give you the best chance to protect your family, home, and personal belongings. Here’s how to ensure you’re ready for whatever the storm brings.

Stocking Emergency Supplies
Before a hurricane hits, assemble an emergency kit to cover your basic needs. Essential supplies should include at least a three-day supply of water (one gallon per person per day), non-perishable food, a first aid kit, medications, and hygiene products. Don’t forget flashlights, extra batteries, a battery-powered radio, and a multi-tool. Store everything in waterproof containers, and keep them in an easily accessible location in case you need to evacuate quickly. It’s also smart to include extra cash, as ATMs and card readers may not work if power goes out.

Secure Your Home
Protecting your home from potential damage is another critical step in hurricane preparation. Start by checking your windows and doors, ensuring they are secure and capable of withstanding high winds. If possible, install storm shutters or board up windows with plywood. Clean out gutters and drains to prevent water buildup that could cause flooding. Move outdoor furniture, grills, and other loose objects inside, as these can become projectiles in strong winds. For additional safety, trim any overhanging branches or trees near your house that could fall and cause damage.

Plan for Power Outages
A hurricane often leads to widespread power outages that can last from a few hours to several days. Be prepared by having portable power sources like a generator or battery banks to keep essential devices like phones charged. If you rely on medical equipment that requires power, contact your local utility company to register for priority service restoration or consider backup power options. Additionally, keep refrigerators and freezers closed as much as possible to preserve food in case of a long outage.

Communication and Evacuation Planning
Communication is key during a hurricane, and you should have a plan in place to stay informed and connected. Keep a list of emergency contacts and important phone numbers written down in case your phone battery dies. Sign up for local weather alerts and emergency notifications through your phone or radio. Establish a family communication plan to ensure everyone knows where to meet if you get separated. If an evacuation becomes necessary, know your local evacuation routes, and have a go-bag ready with essentials like clothing, food, and identification.

Prepare for Flooding and Storm Surge
Even if you aren’t in a flood-prone area, hurricanes can bring significant rainfall and storm surges that cause unexpected flooding. Elevate valuables, important documents, and electronics to higher ground, and consider using sandbags to block water from entering your home. Review your homeowner’s insurance policy to ensure you have flood coverage—standard policies typically do not include it. Also, familiarize yourself with your community’s flood risk and follow local recommendations regarding evacuation or shelter-in-place orders.

By taking these precautions, you’ll be much more prepared for whatever a hurricane may bring. Even if the storm doesn’t cause major damage, being ready will reduce stress and ensure you can focus on staying safe during and after the event.