Hurricane Awareness

Hurricane Season Preparedness: What to Do Before, During and After the Storm

In Florida, it’s not if, it’s when. And when a hurricane heads our way, every minute counts. At Ted Todd Insurance, we’ve helped thousands of families in Southwest Florida prepare for storms and recover from them too. Here’s what you need to know before, during, and after a hurricane. 

Before the Storm

Preparation is key- especially in the days leading up to landfall. Here’s how to get ahead:

Essentials:

• Withdraw cash- Power outages can make card readers and ATMS useless.
• Gas up your vehicles and generators- Fuel runs out fast once a storm is named.
• Stock up on essentials- Water, canned goods, non-perishables, pet food, and baby supplies if needed.
• Fill prescriptions and have extra medications- Pharmacies may close for days.
• Charge phones, portable batteries, and backup charges.
• Gather important documents- ID’s, insurance policies, and medical info. Keep them in a waterproof bag. 

Document Your Property:

• Take clear photos and video walkthrough of your, both inside and out.
• Focus on big-ticket items like TV’s, appliances, electronics, jewelry, furniture, etc.
• Email or back up these files to the cloud for easy access after the storm.

During the Storm

When the storm arrives, your safety is the priority. Don’t take risks.

What to Do:

• Stay indoors and away from windows- even if they’re hurricane-rated.
• Don’t open exterior doors once the winds pick up. A sudden gust can cause serious damage or even injuries.
• Use flashlights or flameless candles- Fire risk is high during storms.
• Keep emergency alerts on via NOAA radio, apps, or local TV.
• If you’re in a flood-prone area, move valuables and electronics to higher ground.
• For Pets: 
• Keep pets indoors in a safe, familiar space.
• Make sure they’re wearing ID tags and have access to food, water, and comfort items

After the Storm

Once the storm passes, take a breath- but don’t let your guard down just yet. There’s still a process to follow.

What to Do Next:

• Inspect your property carefully but safely. Look for downed power lines, gas smells, or structural damage before entering your home.
• Document any damage with updated photos or video. This step is critical for claims.
• Don’t wait to start cleanup if it’s safe to do so but take photos before moving anything major.
• Get in line early. Call trusted, local contractors or service companies as soon as possible- demand skyrockets after storms, and scheduling delays are common.
• Call your insurance agent- your agent (like us!) can guide you through the claim process, explain your coverage, and help avoid delays or missteps. You don’t have to navigate it alone.