According to the FSU Florida Climate Center, Florida’s coastline has been impacted by at least one hurricane every year since 1850. If you are a long-time Florida resident, you’ve likely endured your share of hurricanes and tropical storms. It comes with the territory. However, being prepared can make all the difference in keeping you and your family safe.
The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30, with peak activity usually occurring between August and October. A refresher guide on hurricane prep can help you be ready if a powerful storm heads our way.
Create a Plan
A hurricane can cause catastrophic injuries, death, and destruction. Don’t take these events lightly, even if you’ve been through numerous hurricane seasons during your time as a Florida resident.
Instead, start by creating a preparedness plan with the other members of your household. Make sure your loved ones know where to go, how to communicate, and what steps to take if you receive evacuation orders.
Your emergency plan should cover:
- Evacuation routes, destinations, and meet-up points
- Emergency contact information
- Plans for pets and livestock
- Important medical information and prescriptions
You should review your plan before each hurricane season to ensure everything is accurate and up to date.
Build a Hurricane Supply Kit
If your area is in the direct path of a hurricane, you could be without power and local services for days or even weeks. Make sure you have essential supplies readily available to keep you safe during an outage.
Here are some basics to include in your hurricane supply kit:
- Drinking water
- Nonperishable food
- Flashlights and batteries
- First aid supplies
- Portable phone chargers
- Prescription medications
- Personal hygiene products
- Important documents stored in waterproof containers
Not sure what else to include in your kit? The American Red Cross is a great source of additional information regarding hurricane safety and preparedness.
Protect Your Home Before a Storm
If your home is in or near the hurricane’s primary path, taking some of the following preventive measures can reduce the likelihood of significant property damage:
- Board up your windows and glass doors
- Reinforce your garage door
- Trim any trees near the home
- Remove dead branches
- Secure outdoor furniture and equipment
- Clean out your gutters
If you live in a coastal area, it’s also important to evaluate your flood risk. Standard homeowners’ insurance policies may not cover flood damage, so it is also a good idea to review your policy’s details.
Pay Attention to Evacuation Orders
Local officials may issue voluntary or mandatory evacuation orders when a hurricane threatens an area.
If officials in your area issue a mandatory evacuation order, heed the warning. Rescue personnel may not be able to get to you in the event of an emergency if you stay behind during the storm.
Assess the Damage
Once the storm has passed, cautiously evaluate your home and property for damage. Look out for downed power lines and other hazards.
Thoroughly document what your home looks like before the storm, and take photographs of any damage that occurred as a result of the hurricane. Having photographic evidence and detailed records will be especially useful if you encounter a bad-faith insurance claim.
Be Diligent with Your Insurance Company
If your home was damaged during the storm, you’ll need to file a claim. Unfortunately, filing a claim isn’t always enough.
Sometimes, you have to put the legal pressure on your insurance company to get them to do the right thing. Follow through and, if necessary, seek legal counsel to hold your insurance company accountable for upholding your policy.
Contact Our Jacksonville Personal Injury Lawyers at Baggett Law Personal Injury Lawyers to Schedule a Free Consultation
Hurricane prep is a somewhat annual tradition for Floridians. As you gear up for this year’s hurricane season, be thorough and diligent so that you have the supplies needed to keep yourself and your family safe.
For more information, please contact the Jacksonville and Ponte Vedra personal injury law firm of Baggett Law Personal Injury Lawyers at the nearest location to schedule a free consultation today.
We serve Duval County, St. Johns County, and the surrounding areas:
Baggett Law Personal Injury Lawyers – Jacksonville
9471 Baymeadows Rd #105,
Jacksonville, FL 32256
(904) 396-1100
Baggett Law Personal Injury Lawyers – Downtown Jacksonville
121 W Forsyth St Suite 1000,
Jacksonville, FL 32202
(904) 822-4225
Baggett Law Personal Injury Lawyers – Ponte Vedra
480 Town Plaza Ave #130,
Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32081
(904) 675-1167