Hurricane season is a reminder that preparation is key for homeowners throughout Sarasota, Manatee, and Charlotte counties. While we can’t predict when a storm may impact our area, taking steps ahead of time can help you respond quickly and reduce potential damage to your home.
Before the next storm develops, use this checklist to make sure your family and home are ready.
Stay Informed Before and During a Storm
Weather conditions can change quickly during hurricane season. Stay connected with reliable sources for updates and emergency information.
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Sign up for emergency alerts through your local county:
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Monitor updates from trusted weather sources, local officials, and emergency management teams.
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Keep a battery-powered or hand-crank NOAA weather radio available in case of power outages.
Know Your Evacuation Plan
If an evacuation order is issued, knowing your plan ahead of time can help avoid unnecessary stress.
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Determine whether your home is located in an evacuation zone.
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Review evacuation routes and identify nearby shelters.
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Plan where you will go if you need to leave, including arrangements for family members and pets.
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Keep important documents easily accessible in case you need to evacuate.
Build or Refresh Your Emergency Kit
Whether you evacuate or shelter in place, having essential supplies ready is important. Your emergency kit should include:
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Drinking water and nonperishable food
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Flashlights and extra batteries
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First aid supplies and necessary medications
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Battery-powered or hand-crank weather radio
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Phone chargers and backup power banks
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Cash, important documents, and insurance information
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Hygiene and sanitation supplies
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Pet supplies, if applicable
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Extra keys and basic tools
Store important documents, such as identification, insurance information, and medical records, in a waterproof container or secure digital location.
Review Your Insurance Coverage
Before hurricane season is underway, take time to review your insurance policies. Make sure you understand your coverage for:
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Wind damage
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Flood damage
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Additional living expenses
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Personal belongings
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Business or rental property exposures, if applicable
Remember, standard homeowners insurance typically does not cover flood damage, so a separate flood insurance policy may be needed depending on your property and risk factors.
If you have questions about your current coverage, your Atlas Insurance team is here to help you understand your options before a storm arrives.
Prepare Your Home for Severe Weather
Taking preventative steps around your property can help minimize potential damage.
Before a storm:
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Secure windows with approved shutters or storm protection.
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Bring in outdoor furniture, decorations, and loose items that could become projectiles.
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Trim weak or overhanging tree branches.
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Clear gutters and downspouts to allow proper drainage.
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Check your roof for signs of damage or needed repairs.
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Move valuable items away from windows and areas where water could enter.
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If you have a generator, test it before hurricane season and store fuel safely.
For homes in flood-prone areas, consider additional steps such as using sandbags or moving important items to higher locations.
Prepare Your Vehicle
If evacuation becomes necessary, make sure your vehicle is ready:
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Fill your gas tank before a storm approaches.
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Check tires, fluids, and basic maintenance items.
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Keep emergency supplies, chargers, and a change of clothes available.
Final Steps Before the Storm Arrives
Once a storm is approaching, focus on staying safe and completing last-minute preparations:
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Charge phones and backup batteries.
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Bring outdoor items inside.
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Close and secure windows and doors.
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Follow evacuation instructions from local officials.
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Avoid driving through flooded roads or standing water.
Prepare Today for Tomorrow’s Storm
Hurricanes are a part of life in Southwest Florida, but preparation can make a difference when severe weather arrives. Taking time now to review your emergency plan, update your supplies, and understand your insurance coverage can help you feel more prepared throughout hurricane season.
At Atlas Insurance, we have proudly served families and businesses across Sarasota, Manatee, and Charlotte counties for more than 70 years. If you have questions about your insurance coverage or want to review your policies before a storm, our team is here to help.
