As a native Floridian, I’ve experienced my fair share of hurricanes. When most people think about hurricanes, they probably think of dramatic news coverage and swaying palm trees, but if you’re a homeowner, prepping for a hurricane is more than just battening down the hatches. Take it from a pro: here’s how you can prepare your home for a hurricane while keeping your sanity intact.

Start with a Solid Plan

Every good adventure begins with a plan, and hurricane prep is no different. Start by making a list of everything you’ll need. This isn’t just about stocking up on canned beans and bottled water—but let’s be real, those are important too. It’s about making sure your home is ready to face the storm with resilience and style.

Get to Know Your Hurricane Terms

Before diving into your prep, brush up on your hurricane lingo. Understanding the difference between a “hurricane watch” and a “hurricane warning” can save you a lot of confusion. Remember, a watch means conditions are possible, while a warning means they’re expected. You also have different categories of hurricanes, from tropical storms being the weakest to one through five, with five being the most dangerous. Be sure to watch for evacuation warnings in your area.

Gather Your Essentials

Now, let’s talk about that hurricane kit. While it might not be as fun as putting together a festival survival kit, it’s just as essential.

Include items like:

• Non-perishable food
• Water (one gallon per person per day)
• Flashlights and extra batteries
• First-aid kit
• Medications
• Important documents in a waterproof container

Secure Your Home—Inside and Out

Your home is your safe space, and even the thought of it getting damaged is enough to break your heart. But with some strategic planning, you can minimize the risk.

Outdoor Prep

Start with your yard. Anything that the wind can pick up—like lawn furniture, garden gnomes, and chic patio umbrellas—must be secured or brought inside. You don’t want your neighbor calling you to ask why your flamingo is now part of their decor.

• Trim Trees and Shrubs: Well-maintained greenery is less likely to cause damage. Think of it as giving your garden a much-needed haircut.
• Clear Gutters and Drains: Ensure water can flow freely to prevent flooding.

Indoor Prep

Focus on securing windows and doors inside. Storm shutters are ideal, but plywood can do the trick if you don’t have them. Just make sure it’s properly cut and ready to install. And remember, duct tape might be great for DIY crafts, but it’s not going to keep your windows intact.

• Protect Valuables: Move precious items to higher ground to avoid water damage. This includes electronics and vintage record collections.
• Reinforce Garage Doors: These are often the weakest points in a home during a hurricane. Reinforcing them can prevent more extensive damage.

Stay Informed and Connected

Knowledge is power, especially when it comes to hurricanes. Keep up with weather updates from reliable sources. Having a battery-powered or hand-crank radio can be a lifesaver if the power goes out and your phone battery dies.

Have a Communication Plan

Make sure everyone in your household knows the plan. Designate a meeting spot and have a list of emergency contacts. And don’t forget to check in with loved ones—keeping your friends and family in the loop will give everyone peace of mind.

Stay Calm and Support Each Other

Hurricanes can be stressful, but a little humor—and maybe even a low-key hurricane party—can go a long way. Keep spirits up by playing games, sharing stories, and even turning the whole prep process into a fun bonding experience.

After the Storm

Once the storm passes, it’s time to assess and recover. Check your home for damage, but be cautious—avoid downed power lines and don’t wade through floodwaters.

Document Any Damage

Take photos and note any damage for insurance purposes. Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to start the claims process. Remember, your social media followers will appreciate the updates, but your insurance agent needs the details.