Hurricanes can bring devastating winds, flooding, and power outages. Once a storm is near, it’s often too late to gather supplies or make last-minute plans. Preparation is key to staying safe and minimizing damage.
Here are 15 of the smartest ways to prepare for a hurricane—before it’s too late.
1. Know Your Evacuation Route
Many people wait until the last minute to plan their escape, leading to traffic jams and confusion.
- Identify at least two evacuation routes in case one is blocked.
- Practice the route with your family so everyone knows where to go.
- Keep your gas tank at least half full at all times during hurricane season.
2. Stock Up on Non-Perishable Food and Water
Grocery stores run out fast when a hurricane approaches.
- Buy at least 3 days’ worth of food and water for every person and pet in your household.
- Choose canned goods, protein bars, nuts, and dried fruits—things that don’t need refrigeration.
- 1 gallon of water per person per day is the recommended minimum.
3. Secure Important Documents in a Waterproof Bag
Losing key documents can make recovery much harder.
- Store birth certificates, passports, insurance policies, and medical records in a watertight bag.
- Keep digital copies on a flash drive or cloud storage for extra security.
4. Prepare for Power Outages with Batteries and Flashlights
Hurricanes knock out power for days—or weeks.
- Stock up on flashlights, extra batteries, and battery-powered lanterns.
- Avoid candles, which can cause fires if knocked over.
5. Fill Your Bathtub with Water
If the power goes out, water may stop running.
- Fill your bathtub and sinks with water for flushing toilets and cleaning.
- Store extra drinking water in clean containers.
6. Reinforce Your Windows and Doors
Flying debris can break windows and doors, leading to dangerous conditions inside your home.
- Use storm shutters or plywood to cover windows.
- Reinforce garage doors, which can be blown in by strong winds.
7. Charge All Electronics and Backup Power Banks
Without power, communication becomes difficult.
- Fully charge your phones, tablets, laptops, and backup battery packs.
- If you have a generator, test it before the storm arrives.
8. Set Up an Emergency Communication Plan
Cell towers can go down during hurricanes.
- Write down important phone numbers in case your phone battery dies.
- Designate an out-of-state contact for family members to check in with.
9. Clear Your Yard and Secure Outdoor Items
Loose items become deadly projectiles in hurricane-force winds.
- Bring in patio furniture, grills, potted plants, and garbage bins.
- Trim trees and remove dead branches that could fall on your house.
10. Have Enough Cash on Hand
- Withdraw enough cash for gas, food, and emergency expenses.
- Keep small bills in case stores can’t make change.
11. Know How to Turn Off Utilities
Gas leaks and electrical fires can be a bigger threat than the storm itself.
- Learn how to turn off your gas, water, and electricity before the storm arrives.
- If you evacuate, shut off all utilities to prevent damage.
12. Pack a “Go Bag” in Case You Need to Evacuate
If you need to leave fast, you won’t have time to pack.
- Include clothes, medicine, toiletries, important documents, and cash.
- Pack snacks, bottled water, and a first aid kit.
13. Protect Your Car and Have an Escape Plan
Flooded roads can trap you in your vehicle.
- Park on high ground away from trees and power lines.
- If evacuating, leave before the storm surge arrives.
14. Check and Update Your Insurance Policies
Many people don’t realize they aren’t fully covered until it’s too late.
- Review your home and flood insurance policies well before hurricane season.
- Take photos of your belongings for insurance claims.
15. Stay Informed with Weather Alerts and Apps
Weather conditions can change fast.
- Download the NOAA Weather app or enable emergency alerts on your phone.
- Get a battery-powered NOAA weather radio in case cell service fails.
Hurricanes are unpredictable, but smart preparation can save lives and reduce damage. Take action before the storm hits, and you’ll be ready to face whatever comes your way.
What’s your top hurricane survival tip? Let us know in the comments!
