🌪️ Florida Hurricane Preparedness: Your Essential Guide for Peace of Mind

Hurricane season in Florida runs from June 1 - November 30, bringing unpredictable weather and the potential for strong storms. Taking proactive steps now can help protect your home, keep your family safe, and reduce stress when a storm is approaching.

Use this comprehensive guide to get ahead of the season and prepare with confidence!

🏠 Before the Storm Hits: Protect Your Property

✔ Trim Trees – Cut back overhanging branches & remove dead limbs to prevent wind damage.
✔ Clear Drainage – Keep gutters, downspouts, & storm drains free of debris for proper water flow.
✔ Secure Outdoor Items – Bring in patio furniture, grills, & loose objects to prevent flying debris.
✔ Fortify Windows – Use storm shutters if available; newer homes may have impact-resistant glass.
✔ Reinforce Garage Doors – Strengthen garage doors to prevent wind damage.
✔ Identify Your Safe Space – Choose an interior, windowless room for shelter.
✔ Plan Evacuation Routes – Know multiple routes & turn off utilities before leaving if necessary.

📦 Gather Essential Supplies

✔ Generator Maintenance – Test your generator to ensure it powers key appliances.
✔ Fill Sandbags (If Needed) – Residents in Northeast St. Johns County can fill sandbags under the Palm Valley Bridge in Ponte Vedra Beach (bring your own shovel & bags).
✔ Stock Up on Essentials –

• 🚗 Keep your gas tank at least half full throughout hurricane season.

• 💵 Have cash on hand in case of power outages.

• 🚰 Fill bathtubs with water for non-drinking needs (flushing toilets, etc.).
  ✔ Document Your Home – Take photos of belongings before and after a storm for insurance purposes.

🛠 Emergency Kit Checklist

📦 Have at least 3 days’ worth of supplies, including:
✔ Non-perishable food & bottled water
✔ First-aid kit & medications
✔ Flashlights, batteries, & battery-powered radio
✔ Sanitation & hygiene items
✔ Copies of important documents (insurance policies, IDs, etc.) in a waterproof container

📢 Stay Informed: Important Hurricane Resources

🔹 Real-time storm tracking & emergency updates:

✔ Power Outages:

• JEA Outage Map: jea.com/outage

• FPL Outage Center: fpl.com/outage or 1-800-4-OUTAGE (1-800-468-8243)

✔ Local Emergency Management:

• Duval County: jaxready.com

• St. Johns County: sjcemergencymanagement.org

• Evacuation Info: sjcemergencymanagement.com/evacinfo

✔ Storm Tracking & Disaster Readiness:

• Weather Mike (Storm Tracker): weathermike.com

• Government Readiness: ready.gov/hurricanes

• Florida Disaster Prep: floridadisaster.org

💙 We're Here for You!

As Florida & Louisiana natives, Quinton and I have experienced our share of hurricanes. If you need resources, advice, or someone to check on your home during an evacuation—just reach out!

📲 Need assistance? Call or text us at (904) 826-3690.

✅ Preparation reduces stress—take action now and ensure you and your loved ones stay safe this hurricane season!