Florida Living June 30, 2025

New to Florida? Here’s Your No-Panic, Hurricane Prep Checklist

Welcome to Florida! Your Fun Hurricane Prep Guide for Newcomers

So, you’ve traded snow boots for flip-flops and decided to call Florida home. Welcome to the Sunshine State — where the skies are blue, the palm trees sway, and yes… we have a little thing called hurricane season.

If you’re new here (or thinking about making the move), don’t stress. Floridians are pros at this, and with a little prep, you’ll be storm-ready like a local in no time.

Grab a cold drink, kick off those sandals, and check out this easy, fun guide to get hurricane-ready without the panic.


10 Must-Do Hurricane Prep Tips

1. Stock Up on Essentials
Aim for at least 3-7 days of water, non-perishable food, and snacks. Pro tip: Don’t forget comfort snacks — chocolate, chips, and cookies make storm days 100% better.

2. Charge All Devices & Power Banks
When a storm’s approaching, make sure your phones, laptops, and portable chargers are fully powered. Invest in a car charger too.

3. Secure Outdoor Furniture & Decor
That cute patio set, garden gnome, and inflatable flamingo? Bring them inside. In hurricane winds, they turn into high-speed projectiles.

4. Double-Check Your Home Insurance
It’s not the most exciting read, but you’ll thank yourself later. Make sure your home and flood insurance are up-to-date.

5. Trim Trees & Clear Yard Debris
Loose branches and debris can turn into projectiles during a storm. A quick yard cleanup now can prevent bigger problems later.

6. Grab Flashlights & Batteries
Skip the candles (fire risk!) and opt for flashlights, lanterns, and plenty of extra batteries.

7. Know Your Evacuation Zone & Routes
Familiarize yourself with your local evacuation routes, shelters, and flood zones. You can check your address on your county’s emergency management website.

8. Protect Important Documents
Keep IDs, insurance papers, pet records, and essential documents in a waterproof, zippered pouch or document bag.

9. Refill Prescriptions & Stock a First-Aid Kit
Make sure you have at least a week’s supply of medications, along with a basic first-aid kit for those small accidents.

10. Keep Cash on Hand
Power outages mean card readers and ATMs might be down. A stash of small bills can come in handy for essentials.


Don’t Forget the Pets

Have extra food, water, medication, and a carrier ready for your pets. Bonus points for packing them a chew toy or two for stormy nights.


Pro Tips for New Floridians

– Prep early. The grocery store turns into a madhouse if you wait too long.
– Download local emergency apps and weather alerts.
– Talk to your neighbors. They’re full of helpful storm hacks.
– Skip the panic. Florida’s still the best place to live — hurricanes and all.


Welcome to the Sunshine State

Hurricane prep isn’t about panic — it’s just part of life here. And once you’ve made it through your first storm season, you’ll be a pro too.

Thinking about relocating to Florida?
Let’s chat about neighborhoods, homes with sturdy roofs, and where to find the best storm snacks.

Message me — I’m here to help you settle in, storm-ready and smiling.

#NewToFlorida #HurricanePrepLikeAPro #FloridaLifeIsTheBestLife #CentralFloridaHomes #RelocateWithConfidence