Complete Hurricane Preparation Guide
Protect Your South Florida Home & Construction Projects
Essential steps, timelines, and checklists for hurricane season. Based on Miami-Dade building codes and 20+ years of local experience.
Hurricane Season Timeline
June 1 - November 30 • Peak Season: August - October
May: Pre-Season Prep
Review insurance policies, stock supplies, trim trees, inspect roof, test shutters
June-July: Early Season
Complete major repairs, secure outdoor items, update emergency kit
Aug-Sept: Peak Season
Monitor weather daily, maintain readiness, avoid major projects
Oct-Nov: Late Season
Stay vigilant, begin planning post-season repairs
December: Post-Season
Schedule repairs, review what worked, plan improvements
Protecting Your Home
Start Early
Once a hurricane watch is issued, you have only 48 hours. Most preparations should be done well before any storm threatens.
Structural Protection
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Windows & Doors: Install hurricane shutters or impact windows. Board up with 5/8" plywood if no other protection available.
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Roof: Inspect for loose tiles or shingles. Secure with roofing cement. Check that gutters are clear.
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Garage Doors: Reinforce with horizontal bracing. These are often the weakest point.
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Outdoor Items: Bring in or secure all furniture, grills, planters, decorations.
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Pool: Do NOT drain. Add extra chlorine and remove loose items.
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Trees: Trim dead branches and coconuts. Don't do major pruning right before a storm.
Pro Tip
Take photos of your home's interior and exterior before the storm for insurance documentation. Store them in the cloud.
Interior Preparation
- • Move valuables and electronics to interior rooms away from windows
- • Place important documents in waterproof containers
- • Fill bathtubs and containers with water for post-storm use
- • Charge all devices and backup batteries
- • Set refrigerator and freezer to coldest settings
- • Have cash on hand - ATMs may not work after the storm
Hurricane Preparation Checklists
Click boxes to track your progress
⏰ 72 Hours Before
⚡ 48 Hours Before
🚨 24 Hours Before
Download Complete Hurricane Guide
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