Living in Southwest Florida comes with plenty of sunshine, beautiful beaches, and year-round outdoor living. However, it also means preparing for hurricane season, which officially runs from June 1 through November 30. For homeowners in Cape Coral, Fort Myers, Naples, Punta Gorda, and surrounding communities, preparation isn't just a recommendation—it's a necessity.

A little planning today can help protect your family, property, and peace of mind when a storm threatens our area.

✅ Hurricane Preparedness Checklist for Southwest Florida Homeowners

🏠 Home Protection

  • ☐ Inspect roof for loose shingles, tiles, or damage
  • ☐ Check gutters and downspouts for debris
  • ☐ Test hurricane shutters and hardware
  • ☐ Inspect windows and doors for proper seals
  • ☐ Trim trees and remove dead branches
  • ☐ Secure fencing and gates
  • ☐ Photograph home interior and exterior for records

📋 Insurance & Documents

  • ☐ Review homeowners insurance policy
  • ☐ Verify windstorm coverage
  • ☐ Confirm flood insurance coverage
  • ☐ Store important documents in waterproof containers
  • ☐ Save digital copies of insurance policies and IDs
  • ☐ Create a home inventory with photos/videos

🎒 Emergency Supply Kit

  • ☐ Water (1 gallon per person per day for 3-7 days)
  • ☐ Non-perishable food
  • ☐ Flashlights and extra batteries
  • ☐ First-aid kit
  • ☐ Prescription medications
  • ☐ Portable phone chargers/power banks
  • ☐ Battery-powered weather radio
  • ☐ Cash in small bills
  • ☐ Pet food and supplies

⚡ Power Outage Preparation

  • ☐ Test generator and fuel supply
  • ☐ Charge phones, tablets, and backup batteries
  • ☐ Freeze containers of water for cooler use
  • ☐ Keep flashlights accessible
  • ☐ Know how to manually operate garage doors

🌴 Outdoor Property Safety

  • ☐ Bring patio furniture indoors
  • ☐ Secure grills and outdoor equipment
  • ☐ Store potted plants and decorations
  • ☐ Secure trash and recycling bins
  • ☐ Prepare boat, trailer, or RV as needed

🚗 Evacuation Readiness

  • ☐ Know your evacuation zone
  • ☐ Review local evacuation routes
  • ☐ Fill vehicle gas tanks
  • ☐ Pack emergency "go bags"
  • ☐ Share emergency plans with family members
  • ☐ Keep emergency contact list updated

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family Emergency Plan

  • ☐ Designate a meeting location
  • ☐ Establish communication plans
  • ☐ Plan for children, seniors, and pets
  • ☐ Review shelter options
  • ☐ Monitor trusted weather sources

SWFL Reminder

🌪️ Don't wait until a storm is in the Gulf.

Prepare Today. Protect Tomorrow.

✔ Secure Your Home
✔ Review Insurance
✔ Stock Supplies
✔ Prepare for Power Outages
✔ Secure Outdoor Items
✔ Know Your Evacuation Zone
✔ Have a Family Plan

A well-prepared homeowner is a resilient homeowner. 🏡💙