Florida Homebuilder Centerline Homes | Real Estate Blog

1. Make your storm plan.  You should have a plan laid out for you and your family.  Make sure at least 1 person outside the storm area knows your plan.
   • Are you in an evacuation zone or mobile home?
   • Know your evacuation routes
   • Know what to pack (Food, Money, Clothes, HBC, Sleeping Items)
   • Make sure you have shutters or plywood ready for installation.  Hire a professional if needed.
   • If you have a Pet make sure you make plans for them since many shelters will not allow animals.
2. Trim Your Trees and Shrubs.  Trees should be trimmed by early June, before storms threaten to make landfall.
3. Check your Insurance Policy.  Make sure you will be covered and have enough insurance.  Regulations have changed considerable over the years.
4. Take video or photos of your property (Inside and Out). This will help later on with any insurance claims for damage that may need to be filed.
5. Stock Up on Nonperishable's.  Make sure you have bottled water, non-perishable foods like canned goods, snack bars, cereal and crackers. Don't forget a can opener!
6. Have enough cash to last at least a week.  History has shown us that we may not have power for over a week.  ATM's and Credit Card Machines may not be available.
7. A Hard Copy of Contact Information.  If you live in an evacuation zone (or plan on leaving town) have a couple hotels preselected or know which family members well out of the affected area you're heading to.
8. Get Plenty of Batteries, at least 2 Flashlights, and a battery operated radio.  Keep in mind if you have one of those small analog TV's it will not work after June 12^th!
9. Have a few containers for storing water.  History has shown you may lose water for days if the water plants lose power.  You will need enough water for cooking, cleaning, and bathing.  Another Tip is to keep a big bucket of water for your bathroom.  You can flush the toilet occasionally by pouring water into the bowl.  You can also fill your Tub for an extra supply.
10. Make sure you have extra medications if required.  Many pharmacies may not be open for days following a storm.  Keep a larger supply handy if possible.

See http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/HAW2/english/disaster_prevention.shtml for more info.