Hurricane season is on the horizon here in Orlando, Florida and that may bring some anxiety (or panic). Between staring at your weather app for storm updates preparing your house, and keeping your family safe, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. The key to staying calm and making smart decisions is organization. With a plan (or two) in place, you’ll be able to act quickly and protect what matters most! Here’s a few tips I put together to get organized for the hurricane season.

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Build a Hurricane Preparedness Binder

Making a binder is the first thing I think of when I’m getting organized for hurricane season. You can keep all of your important information in one place so you don’t have to scramble at the last minute. Your binder should include:

• Emergency contacts and family phone numbers
• Evacuation routes and shelter locations
• Copies of insurance policies and IDs
• A printed checklist of supplies and tasks (see below for checklist tips!)

Create a Supply Inventory

I know we’ve all be there, panicking and running to the grocery store in a frenzy! Let’s try to avoid that by keeping a small inventory of hurricane essentials. My list normally includes:

• First aid kit and any prescription medications
• Non-perishable food and bottled waters (at least 3 days worth)
• Flashlight, batteries and portable chargers (don’t forget to keep them charged!)
• Small activities for kids if you have any – think color books, magnetiles, etc.
• Pet supplies if you have animals
• Cash (ATMs may be down after a storm)

Check and update your inventory regularly so you’re never caught off guard.

Make an “Action Checklist” for Last-Minute Prep

Before the next storm hits here in Orlando and the panic begins, create a written checklist and tape it inside of a cabinet so everyone in the house can access it. Here are a few crucial steps to include:

• Boarding up windows or installing shutters
• Charging all devices and power banks
• Filling gas tanks and propane
• Unplugging small appliances to prevent any surge damage
• Moving valuables and electronics to higher ground

Organize for Post-Storm Recovery

After a storm, organization continues to be the key! Prepare by:

• Keeping a camera charged and ready to document any storm damage
• Having labeled storage bins for quick emergency repairs
  • Duct tape, gloves, masks, tarps, basic tools, etc.
• Your hurricane preparedness binder with insurance and contractor phone numbers.

The faster you can document, secure your home and call your insurance company, the quicker you can start the recovery process.

Getting your house organized for hurricane season in Orlando, Florida isn’t just about convenience. It’s also about safety, peace of mind, and resilience. Being well-prepared helps you focus on protecting your family instead of scrambling for supplies and worrying about what you may have forgotten. Need help getting organized, we’re here to help! Contact me for a free consultation. Does your family have any other steps to get ready for a big storm? Let us know in the comments below!

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