Living in SW Florida is truly about waking up in paradise every morning! With gorgeous beaches, vibrant wildlife and breathtaking sunsets, we are able to embrace an indoor/outdoor lifestyle almost all year long. Life in SW Florida also means having your SW Florida Hurricane Prep Checklist.

As a Florida native, I’ve experienced my fair share of hurricanes and learned the importance of being prepared! When you know you have all the supplies you need, it’s a lot easier to wait out a storm that may cause temporary power outages, limited access to fuel, or other issues.

Here’s a guide to help you stay safe and ready when a hurricane threatens.

SW Florida Hurricane Prep Checklist

Understanding Hurricanes

Hurricanes are powerful tropical storms with sustained winds of at least 74 mph. They can cause severe damage through high winds, heavy rainfall, storm surges, and flooding. The hurricane season in Florida runs from June 1 to November 30, with the peak occurring from mid-August to late October.

The Importance of Preparedness

Being prepared for a hurricane is crucial for ensuring your safety and minimizing damage to your property. A well-thought-out plan and a hurricane prep checklist can make a significant difference in how you weather the storm and recover afterward.

Creating a Hurricane Preparedness Plan

Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date with weather forecasts and alerts. Trusted sources include the National Hurricane Center, local news, and weather apps.
Know Your Evacuation Zone: Determine if you live in an evacuation zone. Familiarize yourself with the nearest shelters and evacuation routes. Here’s a link to the Know Your Zone Map.
Communication Plan: Establish a communication plan with family members. Ensure everyone knows how to contact each other and where to meet if separated.
Emergency Contacts: Keep a list of emergency contacts, including local emergency management offices, hospitals, and out-of-town relatives.

SW Florida Hurricane Prep Checklist

Hurricane Prep Checklist:

Water: At least one gallon per person per day for at least three days.
Non-perishable Food: A three-day supply of canned goods, dry food, and snacks.
Manual Can Opener: Essential for opening canned food if the power is out.
Medications: A seven-day supply of prescription medications, along with a list of each medication, its dosage, and any allergies.
First Aid Kit: Include bandages, antiseptics, pain relievers, and other basic supplies.
Flashlights and Batteries: Ensure you have enough batteries to last several days.
Battery-powered and Hand-crank Radio: To stay informed if the power goes out.
Cell Phone with Chargers: Car chargers, portable solar power banks are also recommended.
Cash: Small bills are best, as ATMs may not be operational.
Important Documents: Keep copies of insurance policies, identification, and bank account records in a waterproof container.
Multi-tool or Swiss Army Knife: Useful for various tasks and repairs.

Hurricane Prep Checklist / Personal Items:

Clothing: Make sure to have close toed shoes, rain gear, and a change of clothes.
Toys: If you have children make sure to have something to keep them occupied while the power if off so they are not stressed.
Instant Coffee: This is a must for my prep.
Personal Hygiene Items: Soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, sanitary supplies, etc.
Blankets or Sleeping Bags: For warmth and comfort.
Pet Supplies: Food, water, medications, and a carrier or harness and leash.
Patience: Keep in mind this is a stressful time for everyone, especially our children. Make sure to breathe and have patience with everyone around you.

Hurricane Prep Checklist / Home Preparation:

Secure Windows and Doors: Use storm shutters or plywood to protect windows. Make sure they are fastened to the house correctly and securely so they do not become projectiles. Install metal or wooden braces horizontally and vertically on the inside of the garage door for extra strength.
Trim Trees and Shrubs: Trim trees and bushes away from your home, remove any damaged branches to reduce debris.
Secure Loose Items Outdoors: Bring in patio furniture, garbage cans, and anything else that could become a projectile.
Fill Gas Tanks: Ensure vehicles are fully fueled in case you need to evacuate.
Generator: If you have one, ensure it is in working order and you have extra fuel.

Hurricane Prep Checklist / Post-Hurricane Supplies:

Cleaning Supplies: Bleach, gloves, trash bags, and disinfectants.
Repair Supplies: Tarps, plywood, nails, and basic tools.

Staying Safe During and After the Storm

During the Hurricane: Stay indoors, away from windows and doors. Use a safe room if you have one, or go to the room with the least amount of windows.
Keep your animals on a leash when you take them out. Thunder and lightning could scare them and they could run off.
After the Hurricane: Be cautious of downed power lines, flooded areas, and structural damage. Follow local authorities instructions for returning home if you fled from the storm and listen for boil water advisories.
Take the shutters off your windows and clean up debris as soon as it is safe.

As a Florida native, I understand the unique challenges hurricanes present. By preparing in advance and staying informed, you can protect yourself, your loved ones, and your property. Use this Hurricane Prep Checklist to ensure you have everything you need to face the storm with confidence and resilience. Remember, preparedness is the key to weathering any hurricane season. Stay safe, stay prepared, and let’s keep our beautiful Southwest Florida resilient in the face of nature’s challenges.