10 steps to prepare for a hurricane

Sometimes Mother Nature has a way of reminding us who’s in charge. While you can’t control when or where a hurricane will hit, the best way to minimize potential damage is to be prepared.

Hurricane Prep Tips

When a major storm is coming, stay informed by following NOAA Weather radio or your local news channels for updates. In addition, make sure to obey all evacuation orders when issued by authorities. Follow these 10 hurricane and storm preparation steps to help keep your home and loved ones safe before disaster strikes.
 

• Make a plan
  If evacuation is necessary, turn off all utilities and follow the applicable community disaster preparedness plans. Select a common meeting place or single point-of-contact for all family members. If you have pets, have a plan for their evacuation as well.
   

• Secure the exterior
  Trim large trees and shrubs and bring all outside patio furniture, potted plants, bikes and toys indoors. If necessary, secure outdoor sculptures with burlap or blankets tied with rope.
  
  

• Install storm shutters
  Protect windows, doors and skylights with appropriate shutters or impact-resistant glass. You can nail pieces of plywood to window frames as last-minute protection.*
  
  

• Move your cars
  Move your vehicles to higher ground or park in your garage or carport. Do not park under trees, power lines, or in low lying areas. If you do not have a garage, move your car to higher ground or park it tight against the house to provide some deflection of wind. A tight-fitting car cover may also provide some protection. Additionally, you may want to consider a storage facility that is not located in an expected flood area.
   

• Charge your electric vehicles (EVs)
  For electric vehicle owners, ensure that your vehicle’s battery is fully charged before the hurricane arrives. Flood waters also pose a potentially dangerous fire threat to electric vehicles, so find a secure location like elevated ground or a parking garage to protect your vehicle from potential flood damage.  
   

• Check wall hangings and art
  Make sure wall hangings are secure and take notes about your art collection and any existing damage. Make sure that art hung on outside walls are taken inside, and elevated off the floor. Click here for more tips on how to help protect your art and other valuables from severe storms, winds, and floods.