How to Prepare for Hurricanes?
When hurricane season approaches, one of the most common questions is: how can we prepare for hurricanes? Hurricanes are among the most powerful and unpredictable natural disasters, capable of causing widespread devastation to homes, infrastructure, and entire communities. Each year, families brace for the possibility of high winds, torrential rain, flooding, and extended power outages that can upend daily life. In fact, in 2022, U.S. households experienced an average of 5.6 hours of power outage interruptions per customer, with hurricanes often among the primary causes.
That's why having a clear hurricane preparedness plan is essential for every homeowner. Whether you're securing your home, packing an evacuation kit, or investing in home security system, taking action ahead of time can make all the difference.
In this guide, we’ll break down hurricane safety tips you can rely on—covering everything from flood preparation and power backup to home security strategies that keep you connected when it matters most.
Understanding the Risks of Hurricane Season
In the U.S., hurricane season typically runs from June through November. This period often brings a mixture of severe weather threats: high-velocity winds that can tear apart roofs and windows, relentless rain leading to flash flooding, and storm surges capable of inundating coastal and low-lying areas. Beyond the immediate dangers, hurricanes often cause widespread power failures, communication breakdowns, and even long-term infrastructure damage.
There are also secondary risks to consider. Structural damage to homes can expose families to hazards like gas leaks or downed power lines. Opportunistic break-ins may occur in neighborhoods left vacant due to mandatory evacuations. Knowing these risks is key to answering: how can we prepare for hurricanes in a way that keeps families safe and minimizes property damage.
Hurricane Safety Tip #1: Power Outage Preparation
Extended power outages are one of the most common consequences of hurricanes. These blackouts can last for days, leaving families without access to lights, refrigeration, heating or cooling systems, and critical medical devices. Here’s how you can prepare:
Stock an emergency supply of batteries, flashlights, candles, and portable chargers for essential devices.
Invest in surge protectors to safeguard valuable electronics against voltage spikes as power is restored.
Consider acquiring a generator or solar backup system to keep critical appliances operational. If possible, choose a model that can power your refrigerator, freezer, and medical equipment.
Ensure any connected devices you rely on—home security systems, communication tools, or monitoring equipment—have reliable backup power or battery support.
Keep a battery-powered or hand-crank radio on hand to stay updated on storm conditions and emergency alerts.
Hurricane Safety Tip #2: Flood Prevention at Home
Flooding accounts for a significant portion of hurricane-related property damage and can develop quickly during and after a storm. Take these hurricane safety tips to help safeguard your home:
Clean gutters, downspouts, and storm drains regularly to prevent water accumulation.
Seal basement walls with waterproofing compounds and install sump pumps equipped with battery backups.
Elevate electrical components such as fuse boxes, sockets, and wiring above potential flood levels.
Relocate valuable possessions, documents, and electronics to upper levels of your home or waterproof storage containers.
If flooding is common in your area, consider installing water sensors or alarms that alert you to rising moisture levels early.
Review your homeowners insurance policy to ensure adequate flood coverage, as standard policies often exclude flood-related damage.
Hurricane Safety Tip #3: Evacuation Readiness
In some cases, staying home during a hurricane is not an option. When local officials issue evacuation orders, your family’s safety must take precedence over property concerns. Here’s how to prepare for hurricanes when evacuation may be necessary:
Creating a go-bag with essentials: medications, important documents, cash, clothing, food, and water for at least 3 days.
Securing doors, windows, and garage doors with proper locks or hurricane shutters—and considering smart locks for added control—can help protect your home.
Bringing in outdoor furniture, grills, and other loose objects that could become dangerous projectiles.
Turning off utilities such as gas, water, and electricity if instructed by authorities.
Sharing your evacuation plan with family members and designating a meeting point outside the storm zone.
Empty homes can be vulnerable during disasters—consider a professionally monitored home security system to help protect your property while you’re away.
Hurricane Safety Tip #4: Post-Storm Precautions
Even after the winds die down and floodwaters recede, post-hurricane conditions often remain hazardous. As you return to your home:
Watch for downed power lines and avoid standing water that may be electrically charged.
Inspect your home for structural damage and gas leaks before re-entering.
Be aware of carbon monoxide risks from portable generators or grills—never operate these inside your home, garage, or near windows.
Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they’re working correctly.
Document any damage for insurance claims with photos and detailed notes.
Bonus Tip: Prepare for Hurricanes with Home Security
While traditional preparation methods are indispensable, modern technology offers advanced ways to safeguard your home and provide peace of mind during hurricane season.
Professionally monitored home security systems deliver multiple benefits:
Immediate alerts for water leaks, smoke, carbon monoxide, or unauthorized entry—even if you’re evacuated.
Remote access to security cameras and smart locks, allowing you to monitor your property and grant access to emergency responders.
Panels with backup power sources and backup cellular communications to keep alarms and sensors operational during outages.
Contact Brinks Home™ today to learn how our 24/7 professionally monitored systems with battery and cellular backup can help you prepare for and protect against hurricane-related risks this season.
