Hurricanes Milton and Helene's impacts on the communities they hit during the 2024 hurricane season were devastating. As Floridians prepare for the 2025 hurricane season, it's fair to be concerned. What will this year hold?
While the first outlook may predict less activity than last year, preparation is still important. Hurricane season begins in June, which means it's time to review your hurricane preparedness tasks and procedures before you find yourself looking into the eye of the storm.
Review Your Insurance Policies
Reviewing your insurance information can help you decide if you need to increase your coverage, make some changes, or add on additional policies. Is your policy enough to cover a rebuild of your home? What are your limits and deductibles? Does it specifically list if hurricanes are covered? What is the coverage on your policy? Reviewing your policy with your insurance agent can help you find answers to these important questions.
Document Your Home & Belongings
Having pre-storm pictures can help you when filing a claim and rebuilding or repairing your home. Be sure to upload your photos to a cloud or save them on an external drive in case your computer or phone is damaged in the storm.
Consider Flood Insurance
Typically, your base homeowners insurance policy does not include flood insurance. Depending on where you live and your proximity to a body of water, adding flood insurance can help you protect your valuables and home in the event of a flood.
Check Auto Insurance Coverage
If a tree limb falls on your car or is hit with debris during a hurricane, you'll want to have comprehensive coverage for the value of your vehicle. While it's helpful in inclement weather, comprehensive coverage also provides coverage against theft or vandalism.
Store Important Documents
Gather important documents such as insurance, financial, medical, legal, and personal documents, and store them in a secure place. Keep a waterproof container handy for safekeeping and to protect your important information from the elements.
Make an Emergency Plan
The last thing you want is to be caught off guard. Start conversations with your family members regarding what you'll do in the event of a hurricane, regardless of where you live in Florida. Knowing where to find the nearest shelters, your fastest evacuation route, and what items to bring with you will allow you to leave quicker and safer.
Stock a Hurricane Supply Kit
Before bread and bottled water start flying off the shelves, plan now to gather what you need for several days in the event of an emergency. Purchasing bottles of water, non-perishable food, flashlights, first aid items, and more can all help you prepare now before the stores are packed and items are scarce.Visit Ready.gov for a kit checklist.