Be Hurricane-Ready: 
Your Hurricane Preparation Checklist

Before hurricane season begins, you should have your roof inspected for any vulnerabilities.

If you live in Florida, your roof was likely constructed with roof straps. If you live in another state prone to hurricanes, you should invest in truss tie-downs or metal hurricane straps to protect your roof against high winds.

You should also:

• Check the gable bracing and replace any loose or missing braces
• Seal cracks and other areas that are at risk for leaks
  
• Replace, nail, or caulk loose shingles to reduce the chances they will blow away during gale-force winds and expose your roof to water damage
  

Doors and windows are at a higher risk of damage from flying objects like tree limbs and outdoor furniture than other parts of the home. The best way to protect them is by installing storm shutters, but installing sheets of plywood is another more affordable option. Make sure you buy marine or exterior-grade plywood at least five-eighths of an inch thick.

Additionally, seal all window and door openings with caulk to help prevent water leaks.

Trim any trees or shrubs that hang over your home or are within falling distance. This will prevent large limbs from damaging your roof and stop your gutters from getting clogged with leaves and branches. You can also tie down small trees to prevent them from getting ripped out of the ground by their roots.

Secure all outdoor items like patio furniture, grills, and potted plants, or bring them inside so they don't fly around and damage your home during the storm. Make sure tool sheds and other outdoor structures are well anchored.

Cover your garage door with sheets of plywood. If you have an old garage door and track, you can replace it with a door that is approved for wind and impact protection.

Clogged gutters can lead to leaks through the walls of your home. A few weeks or days before a hurricane is set to hit, clean and unclog your gutters to reduce the likelihood of water damage.

Consider purchasing a generator to keep your power on during severe weather. You can choose from several different types, including small units that power a single appliance, portable units, and standby units that can power your entire home.

If you already own a generator, you should turn it on a few times a year to keep it in good working order. If you have a gas-powered generator, make sure you have extra fuel on hand before a hurricane is set to hit.

It's always a good idea to have a fully stocked home emergency kit prepared at all times. Pack enough supplies to last your family a week, including water, non-perishable foods, and medicine.

Here are some other items you should have in your emergency kit:

• A first-aid kit

• Cash

• Batteries

• Candles, matches, and a lighter

• Flashlights

• A fire extinguisher

• Necessary personal hygiene items

• Pet identification and care supplies

• Severe weather alert radio

• A charged cell phone, a backup battery, and portable chargers

• Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities, such as your gas line

You should have a plan in case an evacuation order is issued. Know how many days in advance you'll evacuate, where you'll go, the route you'll take, and what you'll bring with you. Make sure family and friends understand your evacuation plan.

Know the locations of shelters in your area. If you have pets, research pet-friendly shelters and hotels in advance.

Keep all your important documents in a waterproof, fireproof container. These include IDs, medical documents, wills, passports, and insurance documents. You should also back them up to a flash drive or a cloud-based file server.

It's also a good idea to have documentation and pictures of your home and possessions in case you need to make a hurricane damage insurance claim.