5 Tips for Preparing for the Peak of Hurricane Season

Each year, Floridians brace themselves for hurricane season, which runs from June to November. For residents of Palm Bay, FL, the need to prepare is especially pressing, given our proximity to the coast. Hurricanes can bring severe winds, heavy rainfall, and flooding, posing serious risks to homes, communities, and lives.

Proper preparation not only protects your property but also supports your safety and peace of mind. From creating an emergency plan to reviewing your insurance coverage, knowing actionable steps can get you ready for hurricane season.

Create a Hurricane Emergency Plan

The first step in being hurricane-ready is having a clear and well-thought-out emergency plan for your household. Here’s what to include:

• Emergency Contacts: Write down phone numbers for local emergency services, utility providers, and family members. Make sure everyone in your family knows who to contact in different scenarios.
• Local Shelters: Familiarize yourself with shelters in your area. The city of Palm Bay often releases an updated list of hurricane shelters, including pet-friendly options, ahead of the season.
• Evacuation Routes: Review official evacuation routes and plan for alternative options. Heavy traffic during emergencies can lead to complications, so it’s wise to factor in delays.

Discuss this plan with your family and practice it annually so everyone knows what to do in case of an emergency.

Stock Up on Essential Supplies

When a hurricane looms, stores can quickly run out of essential goods. Avoid the mad last-minute rush by gathering the following supplies in advance:

• Non-Perishable Food and Water: Stock up on enough food and bottled water for at least 3 days for every household member.
• Emergency Supplies: Include flashlights, batteries, a first-aid kit, and necessary medications.
• Important Documents: Secure legal and financial documents in waterproof containers. Items like insurance policies, birth certificates, and passports should be protected from potential water damage.
• Pet Supplies: If you have pets, don’t forget their food, medication, and identification tags.

Having these supplies will help you weather the storm safely, whether you’re riding it out at home or evacuating.

Protect Your Home from Storm Damage

Hurricanes have the potential to wreak havoc on your home. However, with a few preventive measures, you can minimize damage significantly:

• Flood Barriers: Consider investing in sandbags or water-filled barriers to safeguard your home from flooding.
• Storm Shutters: Install storm shutters or use plywood to cover all external windows and doors. This protects against flying debris during high winds.
• Secure Outdoor Items: Bring inside any outdoor furniture, potted plants, or other items that could become projectiles. Trim large tree branches near your house to reduce the risk of damage.
• Roof and Gutters: Inspect and repair your roof and clean your gutters to ensure proper drainage, reducing the risk of water seeping into your home.

By making these preparations, you can help protect your home against storm-related damage and support your family’s safety.

Review and Update Your Insurance Coverage

One of the most critical—and often overlooked—steps in hurricane preparation is checking that you have adequate hurricane insurance coverage. Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Understand Policy Details: Many homeowners assume they are covered, but not all standard home insurance policies include coverage for flooding. Flood insurance is often a separate policy from your standard homeowners or renters insurance.
• What Does Flood Insurance Cover? Flood insurance typically covers structural damage to your home and water damage to personal belongings caused by rising water. For renters, flood coverage applies to personal possessions but not the structure itself.
• Hurricane Deductibles: Some policies contain a hurricane deductible that’s separate from the standard deductible. Make sure you’re aware of its terms.

If you live in Palm Bay, contacting an insurance expert to review your policy is a smart move. Professionals like Advanced Insurance Net can walk you through your options so your coverage is adequate and help you understand the specifics of flood coverage insurance.

Don’t wait until a storm is on its way—double-check your policy today to avoid costly surprises later.

Stay Informed and Be Ready to Act

When it comes to hurricanes, staying informed gives you the edge. The National Hurricane Center (NHC) provides regular updates during hurricane season, including storm paths and impact predictions. Sign up for text alerts or download weather apps to stay informed in real time.

Preparing for hurricane season may feel overwhelming, but the peace of mind it brings is beyond worth it. At Advanced Insurance Net, we’re here to help you secure the protection you need. Reach out to us in Palm Bay, FL, today for expert guidance on flood insurance, hurricane coverage, and more.

Call Advanced Insurance Net in Palm Bay, FL, today for expert guidance on hurricane insurance protection!