{"id":36643,"date":"2023-06-21T12:00:17","date_gmt":"2023-06-21T19:00:17","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/?p=36643"},"modified":"2023-08-29T10:34:24","modified_gmt":"2023-08-29T17:34:24","slug":"how-to-prepare-your-house-for-a-hurricane","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/how-to-prepare-your-house-for-a-hurricane\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Prepare Your House for a Hurricane: 10 Tips for Homeowners"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Rising summer temperatures herald the beginning of hurricane season. Luckily, the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.noaa.gov\/news-release\/2023-atlantic-hurricane-season-outlook\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"external noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">2023 Atlantic hurricane season<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is predicted to be relatively mild, with 1-4 major hurricanes (category 3-5) and 5-9 mild hurricanes (category 1-2). Even with a milder season ahead, it\u2019s essential to be prepared.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">So, how do you prepare your house for a hurricane? Luckily, this Redfin guide has everything you need to know. Whether you live in a <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/city\/18142\/FL\/Tampa\/filter\/remarks=new+construction,viewport=26.25985:25.40698:-79.63143:-80.97725,no-outline\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">house in Tampa, FL<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, or a <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/city\/18894\/NC\/Wilmington\/houses-for-rent\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">rental home in Wilmington, NC<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, read on for hurricane preparedness tips and tricks to help keep you and your family safe.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" class=\" wp-image-84759 aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/07\/GettyImages-140238258.jpg\" alt=\"how-to-prepare-your-house-for-a-hurricane-2\" width=\"694\" height=\"511\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/07\/GettyImages-140238258.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/07\/GettyImages-140238258-300x221.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/07\/GettyImages-140238258-1024x753.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/07\/GettyImages-140238258-768x565.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/07\/GettyImages-140238258-204x150.jpg 204w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/07\/GettyImages-140238258-856x630.jpg 856w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/07\/GettyImages-140238258-408x300.jpg 408w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 694px) 100vw, 694px\" \/><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What is a hurricane?<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/oceanservice.noaa.gov\/facts\/hurricane.html\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"external noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">hurricane<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, also known as a cyclone or typhoon in other parts of the world, is a large and powerful tropical cyclone characterized by a low-pressure center surrounded by a spiral arrangement of thunderstorms that produce strong winds and heavy rain. They form over warm ocean waters near the equator. Key elements of a hurricane include the eye, eyewall, and rainbands.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hurricanes can be mild to catastrophic, and can cause damage through storm surges (rising sea levels), high winds, and heavy rains, which can lead to flooding and landslides. They are especially bad if you <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/is-my-house-in-a-flood-zone\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">live in a flood zone<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">We measure hurricane severity based on wind speeds using the Saffir-Simpson scale. Here\u2019s a quick breakdown:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Category 1<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: 74-95 mph (minor damage)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Category 2<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: 96-110 mph (moderate damage)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Category 3<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: 111-129 mph (major damage)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Category 4<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: 130-156 mph (severe damage)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Category 5<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: 157 mph and higher (catastrophic damage)<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\" wp-image-84760\" src=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/07\/GettyImages-170025652.jpg\" alt=\"how-to-prepare-your-house-for-a-hurricane-3\" width=\"704\" height=\"469\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/07\/GettyImages-170025652.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/07\/GettyImages-170025652-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/07\/GettyImages-170025652-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/07\/GettyImages-170025652-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/07\/GettyImages-170025652-225x150.jpg 225w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/07\/GettyImages-170025652-945x630.jpg 945w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/07\/GettyImages-170025652-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 704px) 100vw, 704px\" \/><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How to prepare your house for a hurricane<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Before the hurricane hits, there are ten important steps you should take to prepare your home, secure your valuables, and ensure your family remains safe. Let\u2019s break them down.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">1. Create a hurricane emergency kit<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The first step of preparing for any disaster is to ensure you have a well-stocked, waterproof <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ready.gov\/kit\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"external noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">emergency supply kit<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, which can be a large tote, box, or carryable kit. Here\u2019s a list of items to include:<\/span><\/p>\n<ol>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Water<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Have <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fema.gov\/press-release\/20210318\/how-build-kit-emergencies\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"external noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">at least one gallon of water per person<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> per day for at least three days.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Food<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Include at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food items that don&#8217;t require cooking, such as canned goods, protein bars, peanut butter, dried fruits, and nuts.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Manual can opener<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Keep a manual one on hand to open canned food.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Medications<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: If possible, pack a seven-day supply of prescription medications and other essential medicines.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>First aid kit<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Include bandages, antiseptic wipes, tweezers, medical tape, gloves, and over-the-counter pain relievers.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Hygiene supplies<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Pack items like hand sanitizer, wet wipes, toothpaste, soap, menstrual products, and toilet paper.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Flashlights and batteries<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Keep a flashlight and a healthy supply of extra batteries on hand.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Portable charger<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: A portable battery charger can keep your phone and other necessary electronics running if the power is out for a while.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Cash and important documents<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Keep some cash, as well as copies of your important documents (like passports, driver\u2019s licenses, and insurance policies) in an accessible waterproof container<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Radio<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: A battery-powered or hand-crank radio can keep you updated on the storm&#8217;s progress and other important information if the power goes out.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Clothing and bedding<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Pack a complete change of clothes and sturdy shoes for each family member, and include warm bedding.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Tools and supplies<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Include items like a multi-tool, duct tape, a whistle to signal for help, and local maps. It\u2019s also essential to keep plastic sheeting and zip ties to <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ready.gov\/shelter\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"external noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">shelter in place<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Other supplies<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: If you have pets, infants, or elderly household members, remember to pack pet food, infant formula, diapers, and any necessary medical equipment and backup power.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">2. Secure doors and windows<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Make sure all your doors and windows are secure and in good repair to prevent water from getting inside. Consider installing storm shutters or pre-cutting plywood to board up your windows. Additionally, reinforce your garage door with braces or strong plywood. You can go a step further and invest in a <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/adcodoors.com\/blog\/preparing-garage-for-a-hurricane\/\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"external noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">wind- or impact-resistant garage door<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> or <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/install-a-storm-door\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">storm door<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, which can greatly reduce the risk of damage to your home.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\" wp-image-84761 aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/07\/GettyImages-170140986.jpg\" alt=\"broken garage door\" width=\"694\" height=\"463\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/07\/GettyImages-170140986.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/07\/GettyImages-170140986-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/07\/GettyImages-170140986-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/07\/GettyImages-170140986-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/07\/GettyImages-170140986-225x150.jpg 225w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/07\/GettyImages-170140986-945x630.jpg 945w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/07\/GettyImages-170140986-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 694px) 100vw, 694px\" \/><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">3. Install a backup power source<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Consider installing a generator or heavy-duty battery in case the power goes out for a long period of time. Remember to use gas-powered generators safely by keeping them dry and outdoors to prevent <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/what-causes-carbon-monoxide-in-a-house\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">carbon monoxide poisoning<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you have the budget and time before a storm hits, it can be a good idea to <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/how-many-solar-panels-to-power-a-house\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">install solar panels<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> or another renewable energy source, so you can power your home independent of the power grid. Keep in mind that you need batteries to store the power your solar panels generate.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">4. Review your insurance coverage<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Review your <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/home-insurance-coverage\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">homeowner&#8217;s insurance policy<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to ensure you have coverage in case of hurricane damage, especially because many standard plans don\u2019t cover disaster or flood damage.\u00a0 If your current homeowner\u2019s insurance doesn\u2019t cover your home, you can get insurance through <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.floodsmart.gov\/\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"external noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Floods Smart<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, which is a national program managed by the <\/span><a href=\"http:\/\/www.fema.gov\/national-flood-insurance-program\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"external noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u201cDon&#8217;t wait until it&#8217;s too late to obtain <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/guides\/what-does-flood-insurance-cover\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">flood insurance<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">,\u201d implores Jennifer Jones, Marketing Manager with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.floodprice.com\/\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"external noopener noreferrer\">FloodPrice<\/a><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. \u201cMost flood insurance carriers have a waiting period of up to 30 days, so act now before the storm comes.\u201d Even if your home is in a low- or moderate-risk flooding area, flood insurance is still a good idea.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">5. Establish a safe room<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If your house doesn\u2019t have a dedicated safe room, identify a small, windowless, first-floor room where you and your family can shelter during the hurricane. This is where you should keep your emergency supply kit and anything else you may need if you must shelter in place.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If your home doesn\u2019t have a space where you can shelter safely, go to a friend\u2019s or relative\u2019s home or an <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redcross.org\/get-help\/disaster-relief-and-recovery-services\/find-an-open-shelter.html\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"external noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">open disaster shelter<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Importantly, never use your basement to shelter during a hurricane, as flooding is common.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As always, follow evacuation recommendations and orders from authorities.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">6. Inspect and repair your roof<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Inspect your roof for loose tiles or shingles and other vulnerabilities. You can consider <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/hurricane-straps\/s?k=hurricane+straps\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"external noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">hurricane straps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to ensure your roof is bolted to the rest of your house. In hurricane-prone regions, reinforcing the roof of your home can significantly decrease potential damage.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Many southern US states have recently passed <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/thehill.com\/opinion\/energy-environment\/557630-as-hurricane-season-begins-new-homes-are-being-built-at-a-record\/\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"external noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">hurricane-specific building codes<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> for new buildings, which ensures that homes can withstand winds up to 130 miles per hour. Buildings in the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.floridabuilding.org\/fbc\/thecode\/2013_Code_Development\/HVHZ\/FBCB\/Chapter_16_2010.htm\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"external noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">High Velocity Hurricane Zone<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> in Florida have even higher wind speed requirements.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some states haven\u2019t updated their building codes, however, so do your research and plan on installing your own protection.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">7. Clean gutters and downspouts<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Clear your gutters and downspouts of debris to ensure water can drain away from your house properly. This helps to prevent water damage and reduce the risk of roof collapse from excess rainwater weight. You can also have a professional to examine your home for potential risks\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">8. Trim trees and shrubs\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Well-maintained <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.miamidade.gov\/global\/emergency\/hurricane\/hurricane-tree-preparation.page\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"external noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">trees and shrubs<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> are less likely to become projectiles during high winds. To help, cut tree branches down to no more than four or five feet long and to remove any dead or dying branches or plants. Also, dispose of any trimmings and debris, so they don\u2019t blow into the street or build up on your property.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">9. Secure outdoor objects<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Secure or bring indoors all outdoor furniture, decorations, garbage cans, and anything else not tied down. \u201cThese items can become dangerous projectiles during high winds,\u201d notes Levi Kastner, owner of <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.kastnerinsurance.com\/\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"external noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Kastner Insurance Group<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. \u201cAdditionally, take a detailed inventory of your valuables, including photos or videos of possessions, in case you make an insurance claim after the storm.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">10. Prepare an evacuation plan<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Lastly, always have an evacuation plan in place for you and your family. Know the local hurricane evacuation routes and where the nearest shelters are. Remember to plan for your pets and elderly family members as well.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\" wp-image-84762 aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/07\/GettyImages-170437570.jpg\" alt=\"how-to-prepare-your-house-for-a-hurricane-3\" width=\"708\" height=\"635\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/07\/GettyImages-170437570.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/07\/GettyImages-170437570-300x269.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/07\/GettyImages-170437570-1024x919.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/07\/GettyImages-170437570-768x689.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/07\/GettyImages-170437570-167x150.jpg 167w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/07\/GettyImages-170437570-702x630.jpg 702w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/07\/GettyImages-170437570-334x300.jpg 334w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 708px) 100vw, 708px\" \/><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How to prepare for a hurricane watch and hurricane warning<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Staying prepared well before a hurricane makes landfall is essential to keep you and your family safe. But what do you do when a hurricane is making its way toward your home? To help, we\u2019ve partnered with Robert Smith, President of the South Region for <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fsresidential.com\/corporate\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"external noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">FirstService Residential<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, to navigate you through hurricane watches and warnings.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When a hurricane watch is issued<\/span><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Clean, sterilize, and fill available containers with water for emergency drinking purposes.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Photograph and\/or videotape your property and contents (with date stamps) as baseline<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">documentation. Store images to the cloud and\/or print and store in waterproof<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">containers.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pack freezer contents tightly to conserve cold temperatures in case you lose power.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Gather the following and secure in luggage or waterproof containers for all family<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">members, including pets: Reading materials, toys and games, toiletries and equipment,<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">several changes of clothing, blankets and pillows, pet food, water, carriers and leashes.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Ensure pets wear ID tags with your name\/phone number.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When a hurricane warning is issued<\/span><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Get cash.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Fill cars with gas.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Charge cell phones.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Back up computer files.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Install hurricane shutters and\/or board up windows.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Store or secure outdoor furniture.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Prepare your pool and spa.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Secure your boat.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Fill the bathtub with water to bathe and flush the toilet.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Turn off breakers or unplug electronics to prevent damage from electrical surges.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How to file an insurance claim after a hurricane\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Insurance companies can be difficult to deal with following a hurricane. Luckily, we have expert guidance from April Weismann, Executive Vice President of <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.hpminsurance.com\/\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"external noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">HPM Insurance<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, to help guide you through the process. Here are five steps for success:<\/span><\/p>\n<ol>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Assess any property damaged following the storm, make a list of damaged property and belongings, and take photos and video of damage for proof.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Contact your insurance agent or carrier directly to file a claim.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Prevent further damage by boarding windows or tarping the roof if necessary. If you can&#8217;t do it yourself, contact a restoration company to do it for you.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Do not throw anything out until a company adjuster has assessed the damage and authorized you to do so.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Lastly, be patient. After a large hurricane, companies work overtime to assist thousands of people filing claims. Unfortunately, it will likely take time for them to get to yours.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Final thoughts on how to prepare your house for a hurricane<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When the hurricane does hit, you must be prepared. By following these ten steps, you can help reduce damage to your property and keep your family safe.<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>It\u2019s hurricane season once again. That means your home and other personal property could be at risk for damage from extreme winds, rain, hail and lightning. <\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":559,"featured_media":84758,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"site-sidebar-layout":"default","site-content-layout":"default","ast-site-content-layout":"default","site-content-style":"default","site-sidebar-style":"default","ast-global-header-display":"","ast-banner-title-visibility":"","ast-main-header-display":"","ast-hfb-above-header-display":"","ast-hfb-below-header-display":"","ast-hfb-mobile-header-display":"","site-post-title":"","ast-breadcrumbs-content":"","ast-featured-img":"","footer-sml-layout":"","ast-disable-related-posts":"","theme-transparent-header-meta":"default","adv-header-id-meta":"","stick-header-meta":"default","header-above-stick-meta":"","header-main-stick-meta":"","header-below-stick-meta":"","astra-migrate-meta-layouts":"set","ast-page-background-enabled":"default","ast-page-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-4)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"tablet":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"mobile":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""}},"ast-content-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"tablet":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"mobile":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""}},"footnotes":""},"categories":[10756,34278],"tags":[13673,34612,34530],"coauthors":[34342],"class_list":["post-36643","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-featured-post","category-home-improvement","tag-environmental","tag-outdoor-upgrades","tag-remodeling-renovation"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v24.7 (Yoast SEO v27.7) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>How to Prepare Your House for a Hurricane | Redfin<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"The start of summer signals the start of hurricane season. 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