Ultimate Pre-Hurricane Checklist

With the approaching hurricane season, Sterling Service of Florida wants to ensure you and your home are as prepared as possible.

Pre-Hurricane Home System Preparation in Florida

In addition to your hurricane supply shopping and preparations, remember to secure your home’s key systems.

• Be sure your home is correctly grounded to help protect it against power surges. Whole-home surge protectors are also beneficial.

• Consider purchasing an HVAC hurricane strap kit. Hurricane straps can help protect your outdoor unit during extreme weather.

• Consider installing a standby generator. A backup generator can be a lifesaver, protecting your loved ones, medical equipment, and other valuables during a power outage.
  
• If you have a sump pump, ensure it is working properly to help protect your home against flooding.

Ultimate Hurricane Supply List and Tips

As a Florida business, we are no stranger to hurricanes. Here are some of our top tips and recommendations for hurricane prep supplies.

1. Plywood or Storm Shutters

Protect your windows from flying debris and strong winds. Use 3/4-inch plywood to cover large windows and sliding glass doors. Storm shutters are a more permanent solution if available. Taping your windows is unnecessary. It won’t prevent the windows from breaking and could instead just create larger (and more dangerous) pieces of glass shards.

2. Sandbags

Sandbags help prevent water from flooding your home by creating barriers along doors, windows, and other entry points. They are particularly useful in areas prone to heavy rainfall or storm surges. Stack them tightly and in layers to ensure the best protection.

3. Coolers and Ice Packs

Power outages are common during hurricanes, and food in your fridge or freezer can spoil quickly. Stock up on coolers and ice packs to keep perishables cold in the event of a power outage. Freeze bottles or sealed bags of water ahead of time—these work as ice packs and can double as drinking water once melted.

4. Extra Propane/Charcoal

A propane or charcoal grill can be a lifesaver for cooking during power outages. Stock up on extra propane tanks or bags of charcoal so you can cook food when you’re without your stove or microwave.

5. Maps and Evacuation Routes – In Case You Need to Evacuate

In the event of a severe hurricane, you may be required to evacuate your home. Stay informed about local evacuation plans and shelters. Studying physical maps can help you become familiar with evacuation routes and alternatives so you are optimally prepared for the event of evacuation.

6. Stock Up on Other Essential Supplies

The ACCA Disaster Preparedness effort, provides resources for homeowners and businesses in Crawfordville, and surrounding areas to stay prepared when a natural disaster strikes.

Here are some emergency supplies they recommend to have on hand. They are beneficial if the power goes out or if your municipal water supply is affected by the storms. Having a to-go stash can also help in the event you need to evacuate and travel comfortably.

• At least 1 gallon per person per day for 3–7 days.
• Canned goods, protein bars, dried fruits, peanut butter, etc. for 3–7 days. Plus, a manual can opener. Don’t forget infant formula or baby food if needed.
• Mess kits, paper cups, plates, and plastic utensils; paper towels.
• A battery-powered or hand-crank radio and an NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert and extra batteries for both.
• Flashlights and extra batteries—avoid flame candles!
• Battery or solar-powered fans.
• First aid kit and at least a week’s supply of prescription medications.
• Whistle to signal for help.
• A non-expired fire extinguisher.
• Cash in the event stores are open, but payment processors are down.
• Cell phone with chargers and backup power banks (charged fully before the storm hits).
• Important family and business documents: Insurance policies, identification, and bank account records in a waterproof, portable container.
• Personal hygiene and sanitation items (wipes, hand sanitizer, toilet paper, feminine products, toothbrushes, toothpaste, etc.).
• Pet supplies (water, food, toys, crate, vet records, ID tags, etc.).
• Be sure all laundry is completed in the event of power or water loss. Have a few days’ worth packed in case you need to evacuate. Set aside a long-sleeved shirt, long pants, and sturdy shoes (ideal for post-hurricane cleanup).
• Paper/pencil, books, games, puzzles, or other activities for children, if needed.

Bonus Tips: Before the Storm Hits

Completing these tasks in the days before the storm, whether you are sheltering in place or evacuating out of precaution, will help you, your family, and your home stay safe and comfortable.

1. Take a video recording of the entirety of your home and property for insurance purposes.
2. Fill up your gas tank and extra fuel-approved containers.
3. Fill up reusable water bottles or recycled plastic bottles to have safe drinking and cooking water. Filling sealable plastic storage bags can also work in a pinch. Freeze some to serve as ice packs for coolers, or keep them in your freezer to help maintain a colder temperature if the power goes out.
4. Secure lawn chairs, toys (including trampolines or playsets), grills, etc.—anything left unsecured outdoors can become a deadly projectile in a storm.
5. Set your refrigerator and freezer to the coldest settings, and try to use up as much of your perishable food as possible.
6. Crank your AC the day before to lower the internal temperature, and turn off your HVAC system a few hours before the storm is expected to hit.
7. Keep your cell phone and tablets fully charged. Invest in portable charging banks to provide some battery when power is out.

Need Assistance? Sterling Service of Florida Is Here for You!

If you need last-minute maintenance, emergency service after a hurricane, or guidance on protecting your home’s systems, don’t hesitate to contact us at 850-391-0091 or request service online.

Your safety is our top priority. Please follow local emergency guidelines, and let us know how we can support you before and after the storm.