With the book closed on the 2024 hurricane season, you might be tempted to put storm preparation on hold until next summer.

Instead, try viewing hurricane preparedness as a year-round commitment rather than a seasonal concern.

Florida's mild winter and spring provide an ideal opportunity to assess, plan, and strengthen your home's hurricane readiness without the pressure of an approaching storm. Below is a comprehensive quarterly approach to hurricane prep for Florida homes.

Winter (December-February)

• Review and update your home inventory with detailed photos and videos of all rooms, including closets and storage areas.
• Examine your insurance policy to ensure you have adequate storm coverage. For example, Citizens does not offer flood insurance and flood is not covered by Citizens policies.
• Schedule professional inspections of your roof, windows, and doors to identify potential vulnerabilities.
• Budget for storm shutters or impact-resistant windows that meet Florida building codes.

Spring (March-May)

• Trim trees and remove dead branches, keeping limbs at least 10 feet from your home.
• Clean gutters and check drainage systems to prevent water damage during storms.
• Consider installing permanent hurricane shutters rated for Florida wind speeds.
• Research and purchase a generator if needed, ensuring proper capacity for essential appliances.
• Update evacuation plans using official routes and identify multiple backup routes.

Summer (June-August)

• Stock up on emergency supplies, including water, non-perishable food, and medications.
• Create or refresh your emergency kit with flashlights, batteries, first-aid supplies, and a portable radio.
• Test shutters and generators monthly throughout hurricane season.
• Review county evacuation zones with family members, and plan meeting points.
• Secure important documents in waterproof containers and create digital copies.

Fall (September-November)

• Maintain storm preparations through the season's end, staying alert for late-season storms.
• Document any storm damage thoroughly with photos for insurance claims.
• Plan strategic improvements for the following year based on the current season's experiences.
• Review your preparedness plan's effectiveness and adjust as needed.

Some improvements, like installing impact windows or reinforcing your roof to Florida building codes, may qualify for insurance discounts. Florida homeowners may also qualify for the My Safe Florida Home program, which provides free wind mitigation home inspections and matching grants for eligible home hardening improvements.

By treating hurricane preparedness as an ongoing process, you can better protect your home, reduce stress, and potentially save money through preventive measures. Most importantly, you'll have peace of mind knowing you're ready for whatever weather challenges may come.

For more information about hurricane preparation or to review your coverage, visit www.citizensfla.com or contact your Citizens representative agent. Stay connected with your Citizens policy whenever and wherever you need it with myPolicy. Registration is easy with your policy number, ZIP code, and email address. Visit myPolicy today!