Florida hurricane season readiness

Before the storm: your quick guide.

A fast, plain-language companion to your Stand preparedness guide — when a storm is named, start at the top and work down.

Before — do these first

When a storm is named, start here.

Top to bottom — finish what you can, move on if you can't.

  1. Know your zone & evacuate when told Locate shelter and routes ahead of time.
  2. Build your go-bag Food, water, meds, first aid, lights, chargers.
  3. Fuel all vehicles early Pumps fail without power.
  4. Cash in small bills ATMs and card readers fail in outages.
  5. Document your home Take photos and video for claims.
  6. Install shutters or pre-cut plywood Secure loose outdoor items.
  7. Clear gutters Move valuables to higher floors.
  8. Get a NOAA weather radio Monitor local alerts.
  9. Charge everything Phones, power banks, radios.
  10. Secure documents Waterproof storage; keep cloud copies.
  11. Water & food 1 gallon per person/day, 3-day minimum supply.

Go-bag essentials

Pack one bag. Keep it ready.

  • IDs & insurance
  • Medications
  • First aid kit
  • Phone + power banks
  • Flashlights
  • NOAA radio
  • 3-day food
  • Water
  • Cash (small bills)
  • Keys
  • Rain gear
  • Pet supplies + vax records

Watch-outs

Four things that save lives.

Generators — outdoors only

Run at least 20 ft from the home, away from windows and vents. Carbon monoxide is invisible and deadly.

Never drive through standing water

Turn around. A foot of water can float a vehicle.

The "eye" is not the end

Calm air means the storm is half over — dangerous winds return from the opposite direction.

If you shut off gas

A licensed professional is required to turn it back on.

During the storm

  • Use flashlights — never candles.
  • Stay in an interior room, lowest non-flood level, away from windows.
  • Avoid floodwater — it may be contaminated.
  • Don't go out during the "eye."
  • Turn off utilities only if instructed.

After the storm

  • Return only when authorities say it's safe.
  • Stay clear of downed power lines — report them.
  • Keep all out-of-pocket expense receipts.
  • Photograph damage for your claim.
  • Wear gloves, boots, and a mask; watch for mold.

My emergency contacts

Fill this in before you need it.

Print the PDF and keep a copy with your go-bag — paper still works when the power doesn't.

County Emergency Mgmt
Police / Fire
Utility Provider
Nearest Shelter
Family Contact
Insurance
Stand Insurance 1-888-319-1332