With hurricane season upon us, it’s important to make sure your home is prepared to face a major storm even if you’re not on the Florida coast. Whether you live in a house, an apartment, or are part of a condominium association, the following tips will help you protect your home and ensure the safety of every family.

Home-Prep Tips for Hurricane Season

1. Create a Storm Kit

All families should have a pre-packed storm kit at the ready containing supplies you’d need if the power went out. The kit should be stocked with enough items to last at least 48 hours, including batteries, blankets, whistles, garbage bags, and first-aid supplies as well as water and food.

2. Clear Off Your Balcony or Patio

When you get word that a storm is approaching, remove all objects from your patios, balconies, and/or lawns so they don’t become airborne and hit someone or something. Find a safe place to keep furniture, garden tools, playsets, trampolines, and BBQs. If you’re part of a condominium association, work together to clear all outdoor common areas of removable furniture and objects.

3. Seal & Secure Windows & Doors

Avoid water damage by making sure windows and doors are properly sealed so they won’t leak. You should also install storm shutters and/or board up windows as well as secure garage doors with braces.

4. Check on the Sump Pump

Another must when you learn a storm is on its way is to check on your sump pump, which is what helps safeguard your basement against flooding. Check that the pump is clear of debris so it can operate properly. You should also have a fully charged backup battery ready to go in case of a power outage. If you live in a condo, make sure the condominium association has installed a sump pump in the basement so lower-level storage areas don’t flood.

5. Prepare an Evacuation Plan

Sit down with your family and put together an evacuation plan. It should include two locations to meet in case of an emergency—one right outside of your home and another outside of your neighborhood. The plan should also include phone numbers for key emergency contacts. Write down or print out the information and keep it in a safe place that’s known to each family member.

HMI provides comprehensive management services to both homeowners and condominium associations as well as office parks and commercial properties organized as office condominiums. Visit their website for a full list of services and call (407) 628-1086 to speak with a knowledgeable representative today.