Hurricane Guide: How To Prepare For The Season

The Atlantic hurricane Season begins on June 1st and runs until November 30th this year. This lengthy season makes being prepared extremely important for the safety of you, your loved ones, your home & more.

We have gathered valuable information to help answer questions and suggest products that may be useful for Hurricane preparedness.

  1. Have an established emergency plan for your household
  2. Creating an emergency kit
  3. Secure your property to minimize injury and damage

Making A Plan:

Having an emergency plan is the first step in preparedness. Your plan should include essential information that everyone in the household can access:

  • Fire extinguisher locations
  • An evacuation meeting place
  • Utility shut-off points
  • A plan for evacuating pets and pet detail decals for emergency services
  • Emergency contacts (names and phone numbers)
  • List of required medications and health conditions/allergies
  • Names, ages, and contact numbers of people in the household
  • The location of your household emergency kit
Emergency preparedness checklistEmergency preparedness checklist
Emergency evacuation planEmergency evacuation plan

Building An Emergency Kit:

Putting together a well-stocked emergency kit is vital. Include items like:

  • Water (1L a day per person for a minimum of 3 days; plan for more to include pets)
  • Non-perishable food (canned goods, peanut butter, dry cereal, granola bars, dried meat/fruit)
  • A manual can opener
  • A first-aid kit
  • Lighter
  • Wood or Pellets for existing stove to cook and stay warm
  • A flashlight
  • Batteries
  • Pet food and medications
  • A crank or battery-operated radio
  • Cash
  • Important documents (birth certificates, passports, insurance, wills, health cards); it is also recommended you make electronic copies of these documents
  • Infant formula and care supplies
  • A copy of your emergency plan
  • Ensure your kit can sustain your household for at least three days. Remember to check expiry dates, replace necessary items and update it annually.
woman preparing an emergency planwoman preparing an emergency plan
Disaster supply kit for earthquake on dark grey tableDisaster supply kit for earthquake on dark grey table

Protecting and Securing Your Home:

Preparing your home and property for hurricanes can help prevent injury and minimize costly damage. Here are some suggestions to help you get started:
Inspect your roof yearly before the start of hurricane season to ensure it is in good condition

  • Remove any hazardous trees or branches on your property that could cause damage if they come down during a storm
  • Clear drains, gutters and downspouts so they are free of debris
  • Secure outdoor items such as barbecues, patio furniture, planters, picnic tables and garbage cans
  • Consider boarding up windows with plywood if necessary
  • Understand what your current home or renter insurance policy covers
Homeowner insurance policy and model of homeHomeowner insurance policy and model of home
Tree surgeon using chainsaw to remove tree branch from heightTree surgeon using chainsaw to remove tree branch from height
Old abandoned building with boarded windowsOld abandoned building with boarded windows

Additional Products and Supplies to consider:

These items can further enhance your preparedness and help you stay self-sufficient during emergencies.

Being proactive and thorough in your hurricane preparedness efforts can make a significant difference in how you and your household weather a storm. Stay safe, stay informed, and be ready for whatever the Atlantic hurricane season may bring your way.

← Previous Next →

Recommended Articles

  • Roofing Buying Guide

    Roofing Buying Guide

    The right roof will protect your home from the elements for tens of years, the proper research to choose a roof that will stand the test of time is essential! There are a handful of popular roofing choices suited to Atlantic Canada, and our KENT Project Centre experts are ready to show you the rainbow of colours and materials available. Our Roofing Buying Guide is a great place to start navigating your roof install or replacement!

  • Siding Buying Guide

    Siding Buying Guide

    It’s what’s on the inside that counts, but a beautiful exterior sure doesn’t hurt! Find new siding at KENT that will suit your environment, style, and structure. Our Siding Buying Guide will walk you through the basics of siding materials and help spark inspiration for your new build or updates. No matter which siding you opt for, you’ll find a beautiful, durable siding with help from your local KENT Project Centre!

  • Window and Door Screen Types Guide

    Window and Door Screen Types Guide

    There's a million reasons to install a screen. Screened doors and windows allow us to get more light and fresh air. They also prevent creepy crawlers from entering our homes. Most importantly, screen doors add another layer of security for your children and pets. Read on to learn what types of screens are available at KENT!

  • How to Fix a Screen Door

    How to Fix a Screen Door

    Watching a buzzing mosquito defiantly entering your home through holes in your door screens can be easily fixed. Looking outside and hearing the screen door flapping when a pet decides to go through it can be frustrating. Fixing the screen is a simple and affordable DIY project that can be done in just a few easy steps. Learn to replace a window screen or patch screens and get a complete guide by reading on!