Hurricane Preparedness Guide
Living in paradise means being ready for hurricane season. Use this guide from The Forneris Group to protect your home, your family, and your investment in Southwest Florida.
Know the Scale
Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Scale
Be Ready
Preparation Checklists
Don't wait for a storm to be named. Prepare now so you're never caught off guard.
Home & Property
- Install hurricane shutters or plywood on all windows and doors
- Reinforce your garage door — it's often the weakest point
- Secure or bring in outdoor furniture, grills, and decorations
- Trim trees and remove dead branches near your home
- Check your roof for loose or damaged shingles
- Clear gutters and downspouts of debris
- Know how to turn off your home's utilities (gas, water, electric)
- Document your home's contents for insurance purposes
Emergency Kit
- 7-day supply of water (1 gallon per person per day)
- Non-perishable food for at least 7 days
- Manual can opener and eating utensils
- Prescription medications (30+ day supply)
- First aid kit and over-the-counter medicines
- Flashlights and extra batteries (or hand-crank)
- Battery-powered or hand-crank NOAA weather radio
- Cash in small bills (ATMs may be down after the storm)
Important Documents
- Copies of insurance policies (home, auto, health, flood)
- Identification: passports, driver's licenses, birth certificates
- Property deed or lease agreement
- Vehicle titles and registration
- Bank account and credit card information
- Medical records and prescriptions
- Keep in a waterproof bag or safe deposit box
- Upload digital copies to a secure cloud storage account
Family & Pets
- Create a family communication and evacuation plan
- Designate an out-of-state contact everyone can reach
- Know your local evacuation routes and shelter locations
- Pet carriers, food, water, and vet records for all animals
- Pack medications, glasses, hearing aids for family members
- Charge all phones, tablets, and backup power banks
- Keep a physical list of emergency contact numbers
- Know your neighbors — check on elderly or vulnerable residents
Recovery
After the Storm
What to do once the storm has passed.
Wait for official all-clear before returning home or going outside
Watch for downed power lines — treat all as live and dangerous
Document all damage with photos before making repairs
Contact your insurance company to start the claims process
Beware of contractor scams — verify licenses and never pay upfront
Check on neighbors, especially elderly or disabled residents
Use generators outdoors only — carbon monoxide is deadly
Boil water until authorities confirm it is safe to drink
SWFL Resources
Local Emergency Contacts
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Questions About Your Property?
Hurricane preparedness is also key to protecting your real estate investment. We can advise on flood zones, elevation certificates, and insurance considerations when buying or selling.