Unexpected Tips for Hurricane Preparedness in Florida

Hurricane preparedness in Florida involves more than stocking water and canned food. Keep a manual can opener, extra garbage bags, pet supplies, and charged power banks ready; coordinate evacuation plans and check-ins with neighbors; and back up important documents. Keep emergency contacts in your phone and on paper. After the storm, document damage only when it is safe and stay organized when contacting your insurer.

Stock Up on Unconventional Supplies

You probably know to stock up on water, batteries, and canned goods. But less-obvious supplies can make managing a power outage easier. Don't forget a manual can opener: an electric one will not be useful when the lights go out.

Consider keeping extra garbage bags, not just for waste disposal but also as an extra layer of protection for belongings you want to keep dry.

Don't forget your essentials:

• Stock up on bottled water—at least one gallon per person per day for several days.
• Gather non-perishable food items such as canned goods, dry cereal, and protein bars.
• Keep a manual can opener with your food supplies.
• Have flashlights and extra batteries ready in case of power outages.
• Prepare a first aid kit with bandages, antiseptics, and any necessary medications.
• Keep enough pet food and supplies if you have pets.
• Keep cash in small bills, as ATMs and card readers may be unavailable during and after the storm.

The Power of a Good Neighbor Network

When a hurricane is approaching the Gulf Coast, your neighbors can be valuable allies. Create a neighborhood contact list to share resources, information, and support. Consider a buddy system for checking on older neighbors or neighbors with disabilities.

Organize a pre-storm meeting to discuss evacuation plans, share tools, and compile a list of skills and resources each household can offer. Knowing what support is available nearby can help everyone plan before the storm arrives.

Digital Readiness: Tech-Savvy Tips

Your smartphone can be a useful tool for hurricane preparedness. Download weather trackers, emergency alert apps, and local government apps that provide updates. Charge extra power banks before you need them.

Back up important documents and photos to the cloud. If you have security cameras, check whether they are designed for weather exposure and whether backup power is available. A solar charger is another option to consider for your devices, although its usefulness will depend on available sunlight and the equipment you choose.

Organizing Insurance Claims After the Storm

After the storm has passed, dealing with insurance can feel stressful. Staying organized can help you prepare for conversations with your insurer, even if the claims process takes time.

Start by documenting damage as soon as it is safe to do so. Take clear photos and videos, and keep a detailed list of damaged items. Contact your insurer to discuss your coverage and the steps for filing a claim. Keep your records together as you work through the process. Patience and persistence can help you stay focused on the next step.

Essential Emergency Contacts for Florida Residents

Having the right contacts available is an important part of storm preparation. Before a storm, identify your county's emergency management contacts and confirm their current details through official county information.

Save the contacts in your phone, and write them down somewhere accessible as well. Technology is useful, but a paper copy gives you another way to find the information if your device is unavailable.