Blog > Southwest Florida Hurricane Prep Guide: How to Protect Your Home and Stay Safe This Storm Season

Southwest Florida Hurricane Prep Guide: How to Protect Your Home and Stay Safe This Storm Season

by Jennifer Springer Rinden

Dear SW Florida Residents and Neighbors,

Hurricane season is upon us, and preparing for potential storms in Southwest Florida is essential for the safety and well-being of residents and property owners. At Orchid Realty International, we prioritize your safety and are providing a list of ways to take precautions to protect yourself and your property. Let’s hope for an uneventful storm season and a wonderful summer ahead!

1. Stay Informed

Monitor updates from the National Hurricane Center, NOAA, and local news stations.
Sign up for local alerts such as AlertLee.
Download helpful apps like FEMA or My Hurricane Tracker.
Keep a battery-powered or hand-crank radio available in case of power outages.

2. Know Your Evacuation Zone

Check your zone and find local shelters at FloridaDisaster.org.
Plan multiple evacuation routes and keep gas tanks at least half full.
Identify pet-friendly shelters in advance if applicable.

3. Prepare Your Home

Locate your hurricane shutters and all hardware—check garages or storage areas if needed.
Secure or remove all items from patios, balconies, and lanais, including: furniture, wall décor, grills, hoses, pool cleaning equipment, and potted plants.
If you are unable to bring in outside furniture, please bring in the cushions and put all furniture as close to the house as possible, away from the windows.
Use large plastic bags under indoor plants to protect the flooring.
Clear gutters, storm drains, trim loose branches and coconuts, and move vehicles into garages if possible.
Landscaping: Ask your landscaper to cut down any coconuts or loose palm branches to prevent damage to your home caused by debris.
Please try to utilize the garage (if applicable) to protect all vehicles.
Close and firmly lock all sliding glass doors, windows, lanai and shed doors, and storage cabinets.
Place towels at the base of exterior doors to limit water intrusion and consider using sandbags.
Remove window A/C units and fill bathtubs with water for flushing and cleaning.
Keep your phones fully charged, as well as all portable chargers.

4. Utility Prep

Expect temporary loss of power or water service.
Unplug electronics or turn off breakers to protect against surges.
Wash all laundry before unplugging the machines.
If evacuating, turn off the emergency water shut-off valve.

5. Emergency Kit Essentials

At least 1 gallon of water per person/day (3 days minimum)
3-day supply of non-perishable food and a manual can opener
Flashlights, batteries, weather radio, phone chargers
Extra cash, as credit cards will not work during a power outage
First-aid kit, sunscreen, bug spray, whistle to signal for help
Full gas tank, tire repair kit, cooler with ice, medications
Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities

6. Pet Preparation

Pack food, water, medications, leash, crate, and comfort items
Ensure pets have ID tags and are microchipped
Plan for potty breaks and identify pet-safe areas

7. Insurance Reminders

Confirm your homeowners and flood insurance coverage
Take and store dated photos/videos of your home and contents

8. Family Emergency Plan

Choose a family meeting location and an out-of-town emergency contact.
Assign preparation duties and keep emergency contacts accessible.
Ensure everyone knows how to reach each other without cell service.

If Sheltering in Place:

Stay indoors and away from windows or glass.
Use a windowless interior room on the lowest level.
Do not go outside during the eye of the storm.

Stay Alert:

Use battery-powered radios or weather and/or emergency apps to stay updated.
Remain aware of potential tornado warnings.

Power & Water Safety:

Use flashlights instead of candles.
Turn off large appliances to avoid surges/damages.
Do not use tap water during boil notices, even for cooking.
Never walk through floodwaters, as they could be contaminated or electrically charged.

If With Family or Pets:

Keep children, elder adults, and pets calm and in safe, secure areas.
Have comfort items, games, and distractions on hand.

Life-threatening Emergencies: 911
Lee County Non-Emergency: (239) 477-1000
Collier County Non-Emergency: (239) 252-9300

Fire Departments:

Bonita: (239) 949-6200

Estero: (239) 390-8000

Fort Myers: (239) 267-7525

FPL Power Outage Reporting: 1-800-468-8243

Water Utilities:

Bonita: (239) 992-0711

Estero: (239) 533-8845

Fort Myers: (239) 321-8100

Prioritize safety—do not attempt major repairs yourself
Move to a safe area if the property becomes structurally unsafe
If flooding enters your unit and it’s safe to do so, shut off the main breaker—never wade
into water near electronics.
Never use elevators in condos or multi-story buildings
Do not use grills or generators indoors or in garages

Insurance Tips:

Keep your insurer’s contact and policy number easily accessible
Most carriers will open emergency claim hotlines, be prepared to report damage
promptly

Remember, hurricane preparedness is an ongoing process. It is important to review and update your plans and supplies annually, well before the hurricane season begins. By taking these proactive steps, you can significantly enhance your safety and readiness during hurricane season.