staying ready for a hurricane
Don't Wait Until It's Too Late!
Hurricane season is here, and if there's one thing we've learned from past years, it’s that waiting until the last minute is never a good idea. Whether you're a long-time Florida resident, new neighbor, snow-bird, or just here on vacation, it’s imperative to be educated on how best to protect yourself in the event of a hurricane. Being prepared can save you time, money, stress, and might even help a neighbor out in a time of need.
Start with a Checklist
Being a SWFL local, family business, our team has been here before. A storm begins to form, the news increases coverage, small talk centers around storm paths & prices of essentials, all while supermarket shelves are emptying. This typically quick shift invites stress and panic into our lives during a time in which it is imperative to remain focused. That's why a checklist is your best friend. It helps you save money, stay calm, and take care of what matters most, your family's safety and protecting your home.
Here are some essentials to have ready at the beginning of hurricane season:
- Bottled water (1 gallon per person per day for at least 3 days)
- Flashlights & batteries
- Battery-powered or hand-crank radio
- Nonperishable food items (canned goods, snacks, etc.)
- First aid kit
- Candles & matches
- Phone chargers (including portable power banks)
- Prescription medications
- Pet food & supplies
- Cash
- Important documents stored in a waterproof container
Having these supplies on hand before the rush lets you focus on the bigger tasks when the time comes.
Click here to download a copy of the full Hurricane Preparedness Checklist!
Secure Your Home
Once you've stocked your basic supplies, shift your focus to protecting your property:
- Install hurricane shutters or impact-resistant windows
- Have plywood panels cut and labeled for each window (if you don't have shutters)
- Inspect your roof and gutters
- Trim trees and remove loose outdoor items
- Know how to shut off your utilities
- Read all applicable insurance documents (homeowner’s, car, renter’s, business, etc.)
- Research and meet with potential contractors BEFORE the storm
Times can be tough after a hurricane. Depending on the level of impact, there could be hundreds, if not thousands, of people in our community in need of damage repair. Knowing the ins-and-outs of your insurance coverage will save you time, headache, and money. In addition, researching reputable contractors before the storm gives you peace of mind and security if you need their services afterwards. If you're unsure about your home's readiness, our team at Kelleher Renovations can help inspect, install, or upgrade your storm protection systems, & answer any questions you may have.
Communication & Emergency Contacts
Storms can knock out power, phone service, and the internet. Make sure you:
- Have a printed list of emergency contacts
- Set a check-in plan with family or neighbors
- Charge and store portable chargers or solar charging devices
Staying connected is key during and after a storm.
Don't Wait Until the Last Minute
Florida weather can turn quickly. While meteorologists give us several days' notice, those of us who've lived here a while know that the final storm track isn't certain until just before landfall. Still, waiting until the last minute can leave you scrambling allowing costly, and sometimes deadly, accidents to happen.
At Kelleher Renovations, we say: "It's better to be ready than to get caught with your pants down." (We mean that literally and figuratively. )
Click here to download a copy of the full Hurricane Preparedness Checklist!
Hurricane season doesn't need to be stressful when you've got a solid plan. Be proactive, stay informed, and take the time now to prep your home and your family.
If you’d like more information or need assistance with:
- Installing or upgrading hurricane protection
- Repairing storm damage
- Assessing & remediating mold damage
- Prepping vacation rental properties
Give us a call. We're here to help!
Stay safe this season,
- The Kelleher Renovations Team