Hurricane Planner

What is Hurricane Preparedness?

Hurricane preparedness involves taking proactive steps to protect your home, family, and property before a hurricane strikes. For Florida homeowners, this includes installing physical protection like hurricane shutters, stocking emergency supplies, and ensuring backup power sources are ready. Proper preparation can significantly reduce property damage, prevent injury, and provide peace of mind during hurricane season, which runs from June 1 through November 30 each year.

The cost of hurricane preparation varies based on your home's size, location, and the level of protection you choose. Understanding these costs in advance allows you to budget appropriately and avoid last-minute panic buying when a storm is approaching.

Types of Hurricane Protection Systems

Plywood Boards

The most economical option for hurricane protection, plywood boards are cut to fit over windows and doors. While labor-intensive to install and remove, plywood provides basic protection at $3-5 per square foot for materials. Homeowners need to store boards between storms and have the physical ability to install them quickly.

Accordion Shutters

Accordion shutters are permanently installed on tracks beside windows and doors, folding out when needed. They cost $15-25 per square foot installed but offer convenience and quick deployment. These shutters are popular for their ease of use, especially for elderly homeowners or those with limited physical ability.

Roll-Down Shutters

Roll-down or rolling shutters provide premium protection and convenience. Mounted in a housing above windows, they roll down manually or electronically. Costing $20-35 per square foot installed, they offer excellent protection and can improve energy efficiency year-round. Some models include remote or smart home integration.

Storm Panels

Corrugated metal or polycarbonate panels attach to permanent tracks around openings. At $8-15 per square foot installed, they're more affordable than accordion shutters while still being reusable. Panels require storage space and moderate physical effort to install but provide strong protection.

Impact-Resistant Windows

The most expensive option at $40-55 per square foot, impact windows offer permanent protection without deployment. Made with laminated glass and reinforced frames, they protect against hurricane winds and flying debris while improving home security, energy efficiency, and noise reduction year-round. Many insurance companies offer premium discounts for impact windows.

Essential Hurricane Supplies Checklist

Water and Food

According to FEMA guidelines, store one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days (two weeks is ideal). Stock non-perishable foods that require no refrigeration or cooking: canned goods, protein bars, dried fruits, nuts, peanut butter, crackers, and shelf-stable milk. Don't forget a manual can opener, paper plates, and disposable utensils.

First Aid and Medications

Maintain a well-stocked first aid kit including bandages, antiseptic, pain relievers, and any prescription medications. Keep at least a two-week supply of all prescription drugs, along with copies of prescriptions and medical records stored in waterproof containers.

Power and Lighting

Battery-powered or hand-crank flashlights and radios are essential when power goes out. Stock multiple sets of batteries in various sizes. Consider solar-powered phone chargers and battery banks to keep communication devices operational.

Sanitation and Hygiene

Prepare for extended periods without running water with moist towelettes, garbage bags, plastic ties, and personal hygiene items. Include toilet paper, soap, toothbrushes, toothpaste, and feminine hygiene products.

Important Documents

Keep copies of important documents in waterproof containers: insurance policies, identification, bank records, property deeds, birth certificates, and medical records. Consider storing digital copies in secure cloud storage accessible from any location.

Tools and Safety Equipment

Basic tools like wrenches, pliers, and duct tape help with emergency repairs. Include fire extinguishers, matches in waterproof containers, and whistles to signal for help. A battery-powered or hand-crank weather radio keeps you informed of changing conditions.

Generator Basics for Hurricane Season

Choosing the Right Size

Generator size is measured in watts or kilowatts (kW). Small generators (3-5 kW) power essentials like refrigerators, a few lights, and phone chargers. Medium generators (6-9 kW) can run air conditioning units, well pumps, and additional appliances. Large generators (10-15 kW) provide whole-home backup power. Calculate your power needs by adding up the wattage of essential appliances.

Fuel Types Explained

Gasoline generators are common and affordable but require fuel stabilizer for storage and have shorter run times. Diesel generators offer better fuel efficiency and longer engine life but cost more upfront. Propane generators burn cleaner, store indefinitely, and often cost less to operate, though they may have slightly lower power output. Dual-fuel or tri-fuel models provide flexibility.

Safety Considerations

According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, never run generators indoors, in garages, or near windows due to deadly carbon monoxide poisoning risk. Place generators at least 20 feet from your home with the exhaust pointing away. Use heavy-duty, outdoor-rated extension cords and never plug generators directly into home wiring without a proper transfer switch. Install carbon monoxide detectors inside your home.

Fuel Storage and Consumption

Generators typically consume 0.3 to 1.2 gallons per hour depending on size and load. Store fuel in approved containers in well-ventilated areas away from living spaces and ignition sources. Gasoline degrades over time, so use fuel stabilizer and rotate stored fuel every 6-12 months. Keep more fuel than you think you'll need, as gas stations may be closed after storms.

Understanding Hurricane Season in Florida

Hurricane season officially runs from June 1 through November 30, with peak activity typically occurring between August and October. Florida's unique geography makes it particularly vulnerable to hurricanes, with both Atlantic and Gulf Coast exposure. According to the National Hurricane Center, Florida is impacted by tropical storms or hurricanes more frequently than any other state, making preparation essential rather than optional.

Historical data from NOAA shows that major hurricanes (Category 3 or higher) have caused billions in damages across Florida. Recent storms like Hurricane Ian (2022), Hurricane Michael (2018), and Hurricane Irma (2017) demonstrated the devastating impact these storms can have on unprepared communities. The time to prepare is before hurricane season begins, not when a storm is days away.

Insurance and Hurricane Preparedness

Many Florida insurance companies offer premium discounts for homes with hurricane protection features. Wind mitigation inspections document protection measures like impact windows, reinforced roofing, and hurricane shutters. These inspections can lead to insurance savings of 10-45% on wind coverage premiums, often paying for themselves within a few years.

Check with your insurance provider about:

• Wind mitigation credits for hurricane shutters or impact windows
• Deductibles for named storms (often percentage-based)
• Coverage limits for temporary housing if evacuation is necessary
• Documentation requirements for filing claims after storms

When to Prepare: Timeline for Hurricane Season

Before Hurricane Season (March-May)

This is the ideal time for major preparations. Install permanent hurricane protection systems, inspect and repair your roof, trim trees, and stock up on supplies when prices are normal and availability is high. Schedule generator maintenance and test your emergency plan.

Early Season (June-July)

Review and refresh your emergency supplies. Check expiration dates on food, water, medications, and batteries. Verify that your insurance coverage is adequate and documentation is current. Update your family emergency communication plan.

Peak Season (August-October)

Monitor weather forecasts closely through the National Hurricane Center. When storms form, you should only need to make final preparations: fill prescriptions, get cash, fuel vehicles and generators, and secure outdoor items. Avoid waiting until a storm is approaching to buy supplies, as stores quickly sell out.

Late Season (November)

Continue monitoring weather but begin planning for next year. Take advantage of off-season sales to replenish used supplies and make home improvements.

Florida-Specific Hurricane Preparedness Tips

Know Your Evacuation Zone

Florida counties designate evacuation zones (typically A, B, C) based on storm surge risk. Know your zone and evacuation routes through your local emergency management office. Coastal residents in zones A and B face the highest risk and should evacuate for major hurricanes. Never ignore mandatory evacuation orders.

Understand Storm Surge vs. Wind

According to the National Hurricane Center, storm surge—the abnormal rise in water level caused by hurricanes—poses the greatest threat to life in coastal areas. Even a Category 1 hurricane can produce deadly storm surge of 4-6 feet. Wind damage is significant but more predictable and survivable with proper home protection.

Mobile Home Considerations

Mobile and manufactured homes face extreme risk in hurricanes and should be evacuated for any significant storm. No amount of tie-downs or reinforcement makes mobile homes safe in major hurricanes. Have an evacuation plan and know where you'll go.

Condo and HOA Regulations

Condominium and homeowners association rules may restrict hurricane shutter installation or require specific types. Review your HOA documents and get approval before installing protection systems. Many associations pre-approve certain shutter types.

Cost-Saving Tips for Hurricane Preparation

Buy Off-Season

Purchase hurricane supplies during winter and spring when demand is low and sales are common. Retailers often discount emergency supplies, generators, and hurricane protection systems during November through April.

DIY When Possible

Installing plywood shutters yourself saves on labor costs. Pre-cut and label boards during calm weather for quick installation when storms approach. Store hardware in labeled bags for each window.

Consider Long-Term Investments

While impact windows cost more upfront, they provide permanent protection, improve energy efficiency, increase home value, and reduce insurance premiums. Calculate the long-term return on investment rather than just initial costs.

Share Resources with Neighbors

Some items like generators, chain saws, or power tools can be shared among trusted neighbors. Coordinate preparation efforts and supplies to reduce individual costs while improving community resilience.

Check for Government Programs

Some Florida counties and municipalities offer hardening grants, low-interest loans, or tax incentives for hurricane protection improvements. The Florida Division of Emergency Management and local emergency management offices provide information on available programs.

Common Hurricane Preparedness Mistakes

Waiting Until the Last Minute

When a hurricane is days away, stores sell out of essentials, contractors are unavailable, and prices spike. Prepare before hurricane season begins, not when a storm is forming.

Underestimating Supply Needs

Power outages often last longer than expected. Stock supplies for at least 72 hours, ideally two weeks according to Ready.gov. Remember that stores may be closed for days after a storm passes.

Ignoring Small Hurricanes

Even Category 1 hurricanes cause significant damage and power outages. Every hurricane deserves preparation and respect, not just major storms.

Forgetting Important Documents

Many homeowners struggle with insurance claims because they lack documentation. Photograph your home's interior and exterior before storms, and keep digital and physical copies of important documents in waterproof containers.

Not Having an Evacuation Plan

Decide in advance where you'll go if evacuation is ordered. Identify hotels, friends, or family outside flood zones. Don't wait until evacuation is ordered to make these decisions.

Resources and Additional Information

Official Resources

• National Hurricane Center - Official forecasts and tracking
• Florida Division of Emergency Management - State emergency information
• Ready.gov Hurricanes - Federal emergency preparedness guide
• County Emergency Management offices - Local evacuation zones and shelter information

Finding Contractors

When hiring contractors for hurricane protection installation, verify licensing through the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation. Get multiple quotes, check references, and ensure work includes permits where required. Avoid price gouging by getting quotes before hurricane season.

Community Resources

Many Florida communities offer CERT (Community Emergency Response Team) training, teaching residents emergency response skills. Local emergency management offices provide free educational workshops on hurricane preparation throughout the year.