Be Storm-Ready | Essential Hurricane Preparation

June marks the official start of hurricane season in South Florida—and if you're in the Miami area, now is the time to get serious about preparation. Each year, hurricanes are more intense and often unpredictable, capable of causing widespread damage with high winds and torrential rain. While we can’t stop a storm, we can prepare for it. Taking the right precautions can help protect you, your family, and your home. Here's what you need to know and do before the next storm approaches:

Your Hurricane Preparation Checklist

1. Build Your Storm Survival Kit

Think of this as your hurricane lifeline — a collection of essentials that keeps your household functioning even when the power’s out and stores are closed.

Pack items like:

• Shelf-stable food for at least 72 hours per person.
• Clean water, aiming for one gallon per person, per day.
• Basic medical supplies and any necessary prescription meds.
• Flashlights with extra batteries (forget the candles — they're risky!).
• A weather radio — battery-powered or hand-crank.
• Hygiene products like soap, sanitizer, and feminine care items.

Store your kit somewhere easy to reach. A travel-sized version for your vehicle can be a lifesaver if you need to hit the road fast.

2. Set Up a Household Safety Strategy

When disaster strikes, panic often follows. A clear plan eliminates confusion. Every member of your family — kids included — should know exactly what to do and where to go.

A strong emergency plan should cover:

• Communication methods.
• Designated meeting spots.
• A checklist for pets and special needs.

Businesses and schools need plans too. And don’t forget to consult resources from the CDC and FDA on staying healthy and keeping your food and water safe during emergencies.

Review your plan a few times a year — especially before hurricane season ramps up.

3. Know When (and How) to Get Out

Evacuation isn’t always necessary, but when it is, time is critical. Don’t wait for the roads to gridlock or conditions to get dangerous.

Do this ahead of time:

• Identify several evacuation routes from your area.
• Listen for official alerts and orders — don’t ignore them.
• Prepare a grab-and-go bag with IDs, cash, legal documents, snacks, clothes, and other vital items.

Leaving early gives you more options and reduces stress.

4. Fortify Your Property

Your home can be a shield — if it’s properly prepared. Take action well before the storm makes landfall.

Here’s how to hurricane-proof your space:

• Cover windows with storm shutters or sturdy plywood.
• Bring in or tie down outdoor furniture and loose items.
• Place sandbags at entry points to prevent flooding.
• Inspect your roof and windows for leaks or weak spots.
• Know how to shut off electricity, gas, and water if needed.

These steps not only protect your home but help keep first responders focused on true emergencies.

5. Stay Connected, Stay Inside

Once the winds start howling, your best bet is to stay put and stay tuned in.

Keep yourself safe by:

• Following updates from trusted news sources and emergency services.
• Staying indoors until the all-clear is given. Hurricane winds can throw debris fast enough to injure or kill.
• Watching for post-storm hazards like live wires, floodwater, and structural damage.

Don’t assume the danger is over just because the sky clears.

6. Stay Informed

Stay connected with trusted authorities:

• @MiamiDadeEM on Twitter/X
• National Hurricane Center: https://www.nhc.noaa.gov
• Local news stations (WPLG Local 10, CBS Miami, NBC 6)

Emergency Contacts in Miami-Dade County

In the event of a hurricane, keep these critical phone numbers on hand:

• Miami-Dade Emergency Management: 311 or (305) 468-5900
• Florida Division of Emergency Management: (850) 815-4000
• FPL (Power Outage Reporting): 1-800-468-8243 or report online
• Miami-Dade Fire Rescue (non-emergency): (786) 331-5000
• American Red Cross South Florida Region: (305) 644-1200
• National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP): 1-800-427-4661
• Miami-Dade Animal Services (Pet-Friendly Shelter Info): (305) 884-1101
• Shelter Info & Updates: Call 311 or visit miamidade.gov/hurricane

Pro Tip: If you’re a seasonal resident or landlord, make sure a local contact or property manager can secure your home quickly when a storm threat emerges.

You can’t control the weather — but you can control how prepared you are. With the right supplies, a solid plan, and up-to-date information, you can face hurricane season head-on. Your safety and peace of mind are worth every bit of effort you put in today.