Hurricane Evacuation Checklist: Securing Your Home and Essential Items

Having a pre-prepared plan is the single most effective way to protect your family and property during a mandatory hurricane evacuation. Based on our experience assessment, safety should always be the top priority, and timely departure is critical. This guide outlines the essential items for your go-kit and the key steps to secure your home before leaving.

What Should You Include in a Hurricane Evacuation Go-Kit?

A go-kit is a pre-packed collection of essential supplies designed to sustain your household for several days. It is essential to prepare this kit well before any storm threat arises.

Your kit should include:

• An emergency radio with a flashlight and a battery-powered phone charger.
• At least a three-day supply of water and non-perishable food for each person and pet.
• Personal hygiene supplies and a seven-day supply of all prescription and over-the-counter medications.
• Eyeglasses, contact lenses, and pet supplies like food, leash, and carrier.

This kit should be stored in an easily accessible location, ideally near your primary exit or in your vehicle, ready to be grabbed at a moment's notice.

What Important Documents Should You Take When Evacuating?

If time permits before evacuating, gather critical documents. These items are difficult or impossible to replace and are vital for recovery and identification.

Helpful paperwork includes:

• Personal identification: birth certificates, passports, social security cards, and marriage licenses.
• Insurance information for your home, vehicles, and health.
• Children’s school IDs and pet immunization records.
• Copies of immunization records and medical prescriptions.

You should also consider taking along a limited number of irreplaceable sentimental items, such as family photo albums or heirlooms. However, avoid packing replaceable items like clothing or electronics. If packing delays your evacuation, you are packing too much.

How Can You Minimize Property Damage Before an Evacuation?

Taking proactive steps to secure your property can significantly reduce potential damage and simplify the insurance claims process afterward.

First, thoroughly document your home's condition. Take photos and videos of every room and your belongings. This visual evidence can help speed up your claims process with your insurance provider by clearly showing the pre-storm state of your property.

Next, secure the exterior. Board up windows with plywood or install storm shutters to protect against broken glass. Move all outdoor furniture, grills, and decorations into your garage or basement to prevent them from becoming dangerous projectiles in high winds.

What Utilities Should Be Shut Off Before a Hurricane?

Shutting off utilities is a critical safety measure that can prevent fires, explosions, and flooding within your home.

• Electricity: Turn off the main circuit breaker to prevent electrical fires from damaged wiring caused by power surges or flooding.
• Gas: Shut off the main gas valve to prevent dangerous leaks and potential explosions if gas lines are compromised during the storm.
• Water: Turn off the main water supply to help prevent flooding from burst pipes.

It is advisable to check with your local utility company for any specific guidance they may have regarding shutting off utilities. Finally, ensure your car is moved to higher ground if you are in a flood-prone area, and lock all doors and windows before you leave to deter potential looting.

A well-executed evacuation plan, centered on a pre-packed go-kit and thorough home preparation, is your best defense against a hurricane's unpredictability. Prioritizing these steps can protect your most valuable assets—your family's safety and your financial investment in your home.