Protect Your Family, Your Property, and Your Peace of Mind Before the Storms Arrive
As South Florida heads toward another hurricane season, the message for Broward County homeowners is simple: start preparing now. Hurricane season officially begins on June 1, but the time to get your home and family ready is well before that date. The sooner you take action, the better your chances of avoiding costly damage and ensuring the safety of your loved ones.
Every year, the National Hurricane Center, FEMA, and Ready.gov emphasize the importance of early preparedness. Whether you’ve weathered many storms or are new to the area, a solid hurricane plan is essential. At the heart of that plan should be a focus on strengthening your home’s physical defenses, starting with the most effective protection available: impact-resistant windows and doors.
Start with What Matters Most: Your Home’s First Line of Defense
Your windows and doors are more than just entry points — they are your barrier against extreme wind, flying debris, and water intrusion. Unlike temporary solutions, professionally installed impact windows and doors provide year-round protection that doesn’t require last-minute scrambling before a storm.
Now is the time to inspect these systems. Look for any signs of wear, including cracks in the glass, weakened seals, or frame damage. Even minor flaws can compromise your home’s ability to withstand hurricane-force conditions. If anything looks questionable, don’t wait. Call in a licensed expert to evaluate and repair or replace your hurricane protection systems while availability is still high.
Emergency Supplies: Prepare to Be Self-Sufficient
While impact-resistant features protect your home’s structure, you also need to be ready to take care of your family during and after the storm. Power outages, limited access to supplies, and unsafe conditions can last for days. Stocking up early helps you avoid last-minute stress and inflated prices.
Make sure you have enough bottled water to last each family member a full week, along with non-perishable food and a manual can opener. Flashlights, backup batteries, and fully charged portable power banks are also essential. Keep your first-aid kit up to date and include any necessary medications. Don’t forget emergency supplies for pets, including food and any medications they may need.
Generators can also provide peace of mind during extended outages, but they require fuel and safe operation knowledge. If you plan to use one, be sure it’s tested, serviced, and stored properly before the season begins.
Communication and Evacuation: Have a Plan in Place
In the event of a mandatory evacuation or an emergency, knowing where to go and how to reach loved ones can make a critical difference. Write out a family evacuation plan that includes both a nearby shelter and an out-of-area destination. Choose primary and secondary evacuation routes to give yourself flexibility during heavy traffic or road closures.
Go-bags should be packed in advance and kept in an easily accessible location. Each should include personal identification, insurance documents, prescription medications, basic hygiene items, some food and water, and a change of clothes. Because cell networks often fail during major storms, agree in advance on a backup method of communication — whether it’s a designated meet-up location or a trusted out-of-town contact to relay information.
Insurance: Review Now, Not Later
Hurricanes don’t just threaten physical safety — they also pose a major financial risk. The time to review your insurance coverage is before a storm is named, not after. Many homeowners discover too late that their policies don’t cover all types of hurricane damage.
Double-check your homeowner’s policy to confirm whether it includes windstorm coverage, which is sometimes a separate rider. If you’re in a flood-prone area, consider federal flood insurance through FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program, since standard policies typically don’t include flood damage.
Document your valuables and property condition with photos or videos. Store these records digitally and in a waterproof container, so you can access them if you need to file a claim after a storm.
Take Action Now — Your Safety Depends On It
The best time to prepare is well before a storm is approaching. Acting now gives you access to professional services, full supply shelves, and peace of mind knowing your home is ready for whatever the season brings.
Start by inspecting your impact windows and doors. Ensure they’re in good condition and fully capable of protecting your home. Then, build a complete emergency kit, review your evacuation and communication plans, and confirm your insurance coverage is up to date.
Schedule Your Hurricane Readiness Inspection Today
At Broward Impact, we specialize in protecting South Florida homes with professionally installed impact windows and doors that meet the highest standards for hurricane resistance. We’re proud to help our community prepare before disaster strikes, offering inspections, installations, and peace of mind to thousands of local families.
Call us today at 954-922-0606 to schedule your hurricane readiness inspection or request a free quote.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When should I start preparing for hurricane season in South Florida?
Start your preparations in April or early May. Don’t wait for a named storm, as this often leads to supply shortages and delays in booking professional services.
How much water should I store for my family?
Plan for one gallon per person per day, with enough to last at least seven days. Don’t forget to include extra water for pets.
Does homeowner’s insurance automatically cover hurricane damage?
Not always. Windstorm damage may require a separate rider, and flood damage is generally not covered by standard policies. Speak with your insurance provider for details.
What should I keep in my emergency go-bag?
Essential items include identification, insurance paperwork, medications, snacks, a flashlight, extra batteries, a small amount of cash, and a change of clothes.
