Living in beautiful Southwest Florida means enjoying sunshine, beaches, and warm weather year-round—but it also means being prepared for the realities of hurricane season and the potential for flooding. As a local independent insurance agency, we’ve seen firsthand how proactive homeowners can significantly reduce their risk of damage by taking simple, smart steps toward self-mitigation. Here’s a quick guide to help you protect your home, belongings, and loved ones before the next storm rolls in.
1. Use Flood Barrier Tape and Sandbags
Flood barrier tape, water-activated barriers, and traditional sandbags are excellent tools for keeping floodwaters from entering your home. Apply flood tape around doorframes, garage doors, and low-entry points to prevent water seepage. Reinforce these areas with sandbags for added protection, especially if your home sits in a flood-prone zone.
Tip: Always have flood protection supplies on hand before a storm is forecasted—these sell out fast!
2. Secure Outdoor Items
High winds can turn patio furniture, grills, garden tools, and even potted plants into dangerous projectiles. Before any storm:
- Bring items inside your garage or home.
- Anchor down heavy objects that can’t be moved.
- Trim weak branches or overhanging trees near your house.
3. Check and Seal Windows and Doors
Inspect all doors and windows for cracks or worn-out weather stripping. Storm shutters are ideal, but if those aren’t available, consider using plywood panels as a temporary measure.
Bonus Tip: Invest in impact-resistant windows over time—they can lower your insurance premiums and provide long-term peace of mind.
4. Protect Your Pool Equipment
Pool pumps, filters, and heaters are expensive—and vulnerable. To mitigate damage:
- Cover electrical components with waterproof tarps or containers.
- Shut down your pool equipment before the storm hits.
- If flooding is expected, elevate your equipment on blocks or platforms.
5. Plan for Scooters, E-Bikes, and Electric Vehicles
In these modern times we are increasingly relying on electric vehicles, scooters, and e-bikes—but these come with special storm considerations. Lithium-ion batteries can pose serious fire risks if exposed to water, especially saltwater. Here’s how to protect them safely:
- Store them indoors and off the ground, away from potential flood zones.
- Unplug chargers and consider disconnecting batteries ahead of the storm.
- Never store EVs, scooters, or e-bikes in basements or garages prone to flooding.
6. Stock Emergency Supplies (at Least 3 Days’ Worth)
When storms hit, power outages and road closures are likely. Every household should have a basic emergency kit ready at all times. Include:
- Water (1 gallon per person per day)
- Non-perishable food
- Flashlights, extra batteries, portable phone chargers
- First aid kit and essential medications Important documents and cash in waterproof containers
- Pet supplies, if applicable (food, leash, meds, litter, etc.)
Keep your kit in a central, easy-to-access location, and check it twice a year to replace expired items.
7. Store Important Documents Safely
Place your insurance policies, ID documents, titles, and medical records in a waterproof/fireproof safe. It’s also a good idea to store digital copies in the cloud or on a secure USB drive.
8. Review Your Insurance Coverage
Now is the time—not after a loss—to make sure your homeowner’s policy is up-to-date. Coverage should include:
- Wind and hurricane damage
- Flood insurance (typically separate from your homeowner’s policy)
- Replacement cost coverage—not just actual cash value
We don’t offer bare-bones, minimum coverage because we believe in protecting what matters most—your home, your family, and your future. Our team is here to help you understand your options and choose the right protection for your needs.
Preparing now can save you thousands later. It can also bring comfort during stressful times, knowing your home is as ready as possible. At Harbour Insurance, we’re more than just your insurance provider—we’re your risk mitigation partner.
Need a policy review or have questions about hurricane preparedness?
Call us or stop by—we’d love to help.
