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Hurricane home prep checklist

What to do before hurricane season, when a watch is issued, and in the 24 hours before landfall.

By HomeRiskMap Editors, Editorial team · Reviewed October 8, 2026 · How we source this

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Before the season (June)

Know your evacuation zone and two routes inland
Photograph every room for insurance
Service shutters or pre-cut plywood for windows
Review wind vs flood coverage — they are usually separate policies
Trim trees away from the roof and clear gutters

When a watch is issued

Fill the car and get cash
Fill tubs and extra jugs with water
Bring in outdoor furniture, grills and projectiles
Charge every device and freeze bottles of water
Stage the emergency kit by the door

If you evacuate

Leave when officials say — do not wait for landfall
Unplug electronics and shut off propane
Tell someone your destination
Take meds, documents, pets and the kit — nothing else matters

If you stay

Pick an interior room away from windows
Do not go outside during the eye
Never walk or drive through floodwater
Have a carbon-monoxide plan if you will run a generator (outdoors only)

Informational only — not a substitute for local emergency orders or your insurance policy. Last updated October 8, 2026.

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