Bracing for Impact: The Ultimate Hurricane Supplies Checklist and Roof Tips for Your Safety

Florida Hurricane Damage

In the event of a hurricane "watch or warning" in your area, it's important to be prepared. By following a hurricane preparation checklist, you can ensure your safety and minimize damage to your property. This article offers a helpful hurricane warning supplies checklist to assist you in preparing for a hurricane with all the necessary essentials to weather the storm. Additionally, we've included expert tips and residential roofing advice to help you mitigate storm-related damage during hurricane season.

Tip #1 - Knowing the difference between a hurricane “watch” and a “warning” is important.

A hurricane watch means hurricane conditions (sustained winds of 74 miles per hour [mph] or higher) in a stated area are possible. Experts announce hurricane watches around 48 hours before they expect tropical storm-force winds (sustained winds of 39 to 73 mph) to start.

A hurricane warning means that hurricane conditions are expected somewhere within the geographical location warning area. A hurricane warning is typically issued 36 hours (or in as little as 12-24 hours in some cases) before the anticipated first occurrence of tropical-storm-force winds, conditions that make outside preparations difficult or dangerous.

Tip #2 - If you or a loved one are in an area that has just been issued a “hurricane warning”, time is of the essence! Gather your storm supplies, using our "Hurricane Supplies Checklist" guide. Preparations to protect life and property should be rushed to completion.

Remember, early hurricane preparation and planning can make a significant difference in mitigating risks and ensuring the safety of you and your loved ones.

Tip #3 - You can prepare for the storm before it happens making sure these essential items are collected and ready to go.

Hurricane Warning Emergency Supplies Checklist:

Personal and Medical Supplies

• Prescription Medicine (two-week supply)
• Camera and Film
• Books, Magazines, and Games
• Ice Chest and Ice
• Disposable Plates, Glasses, and Utensils
• Manual Can Opener
• Battery-operated TV/Radio and Clock
• Spare Batteries
• Flashlights / Lantern
• Toilet Paper
• Diapers and Sanitizing Wipes
• Baby Food/Formula
• First Aid Kit
• Plastic Sheeting / Tarp
• Duct or Masking Tape
• Nails, Rope, Lumber, Tools
• Plastic Garbage Bags
• Insect Repellent, Sunscreen
• Disinfectant/ Sanitizing Gel
• Soap and Detergent
• Bleach for Sterilization (unscented with hypochlorite, the only active ingredient)
• Tincture of Iodine, or Water Purification Tablets
• Rain Gear
• Fire Extinguisher
• Fuel for Generators and Cars
• Waterproof Matches
• Cash (ATMs may not work after the storm)
• Important Medical/Personal documents (insurance policy, passports, birth certificate, etc.) sealed in a waterproof bag.
• Backpack or storage tub to hold your supplies.

Non-perishable food

• Canned Meats / Fish (tuna, ham, etc.)
• Canned Fruit and Vegetables
• Canned Soups / Chili
• Canned Juices, Milk
• Dried Foods (spaghetti, rice, etc.)
• Dried Fruit and Nuts
• Granola Bars/Power Bars and Trail Mix
• Cereal (good for Vitamins and Minerals)
• Peanut Butter and Jelly
• Bread
• Crackers and Cookies
• Coffee and Tea
• Pudding
• Pet Food and Medicine
• Bottled water is enough for 3-5 days or water purification tablets.

It's important to remember that a hurricane can cut off your power or water supply. You might not be able to leave your home for additional supplies after a storm. If your streets are flooded and electrical lines or trees have been knocked down, the roads will be unsafe to drive on.

Tip #4 - Another thing to consider when preparing for a hurricane is to assess the current condition of your roof and structural property.

If you are worried about the condition of your roof before or after a storm, it's a good idea to schedule a roof inspection with a licensed and insured, local residential roofing contractor. You want to make sure everything is in good working order to ensure your safety and strong enough to protect you and your loved ones, during and after the storm.

Tip #5 - Scheduling an inspection BEFORE and AFTER a storm can help prevent further damage down the road and give you peace of mind it's in good sturdy shape!

At Florida Roofing & Construction LLC, we have designed a roof inspection process with you in mind that is unmatched in the industry. If your roof has been damaged during a storm or you are unsure of its condition and want to find out, simply schedule a hassle-free roof inspection with us today by calling or clicking the Schedule Now link. Our goal is to assist you in mitigating further damage, repairing or replacing what is necessary, and providing you with peace of mind without delay.

In conclusion, it's best to be prepared before, during, and after a hurricane or major weather event!

Stock up on everything you need now, by using our “Ultimate Hurricane Supplies Checklist, and use our "Roof Safety Tips" to keep your family safe and healthy! Click here to read more of our expert tips and advice. You can also find more expert tips and helpful industry advice by checking out our blog. Discover - “How often you need a roof inspection in Florida” by reading this helpful article next. Stay in the loop by subscribing to our blog today!