Hurricane Prep Checklist for Central Florida Homes

Hurricane season runs June 1 to November 30. Use this checklist before the season and again when a storm is in the forecast cone.

Before the season

• Know your evacuation zone and flood risk (check your county emergency management site)
• Review homeowners and flood insurance; flood is a separate policy and usually has a 30-day wait
• Photograph or video every room for insurance records
• Trim trees and remove dead limbs near the house and power lines
• Inspect the roof, soffits, and gutters; fix loose shingles and clear drains
• Test your generator and store fuel safely; never run it indoors or in a garage
• Get shutters or pre-cut plywood ready and labeled for each window

Supply kit (at least 7 days)

• 1 gallon of water per person per day, plus water for pets
• Non-perishable food, manual can opener, paper plates
• Medications (2-week supply), first-aid kit, eyeglasses
• Flashlights, batteries, battery or crank radio, power banks
• Cash in small bills; gas stations and ATMs may be down
• Copies of IDs, insurance policies, and medical info in a waterproof bag

72 to 48 hours out

• Fill vehicles with gas and get cash
• Refill prescriptions; buy any missing supplies
• Bring in or tie down patio furniture, grills, trash cans, and decorations
• Clear gutters and yard drains again

24 hours out

• Install shutters or plywood; close all interior doors
• Set the fridge and freezer to the coldest setting; freeze water jugs
• Charge every phone, laptop, and power bank
• Fill bathtubs with water for flushing and cleaning
• Follow official evacuation orders without delay

General safety info, not professional advice. Always follow official guidance from your county emergency management and the National Hurricane Center.