Hurricane Prep Guide: Tips, Resources, and More in Orlando

A Story By

Ashley Edwards

November 09, 2022 | 10:39 AM

For other regions, fall means comfy sweaters and a cool breeze. For Florida, it’s time for hurricanes. The breeze in the air could mean a storm is brewing. We’ve collected some resources from sites like The City of Orlando and other credible sources to help you prepare for whatever this season may bring. Below is our guide to Hurricane Prep in Orlando.

Get Prepared

Supplies/Resources

Stocking up on supplies is important if you plan on safely riding out a storm from home. The City of Orlando has a great list of recommended supplies and tips on building a supply kit.

Get together a Basic Disaster Supply Kit
- Water (one gallon per person per day for several days, for drinking and sanitation)
- Food (at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food)
- Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert
- Flashlight
- First aid kit
- Extra batteries
- Whistle (to signal for help)
- Dust mask (to help filter contaminated air)
- Plastic sheeting and duct tape (to shelter in place)
- Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties (for personal sanitation)
- Wrench or pliers (to turn off utilities)
- Manual can opener (for food)
- Local maps
- Cell phone with chargers/portable battery banks

Additional Emergency Supplies
- Consider adding the following items to your emergency supply kit based on your individual needs:
- Masks (for everyone ages 2 and above), soap, hand sanitizer, disinfecting wipes to disinfect surfaces
- Prescription medications
- Non-prescription medications such as pain relievers, anti-diarrhea medication, antacids or laxatives
- Prescription eyeglasses and contact lens solution
- Infant formula, bottles, diapers, wipes and diaper rash cream
- Pet food and extra water for your pet
- Cash or traveler’s checks
- Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account records saved electronically or in a waterproof, portable container
- Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person
- Complete change of clothing appropriate for your climate and sturdy shoes
- Fire extinguisher
- Matches in a waterproof container
- Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items
- Mess kits, paper cups, plates, paper towels and plastic utensils
- Paper and pencil
- Books, games, puzzles or other activities for children

Fill up your gas tank or a gas can when storm watches are issued in case of power outages
If possible, move car to a higher up parking garage, or move away from any body of water or large trees/objects
See if you’re in a Flood Zone here
Get planning with the Florida Disaster Preparedness Guide

Do You Have Your Hurricane Prep Kit?

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Prep Your Home

If you’re staying home or want to make sure your house is well protected as you seek shelter somewhere else, here are some tips to prep your home before a hurricane.

Move all outdoor furniture and/or plants indoors (anything that can be picked up by wind)
Board up windows if necessary (homes near water)
Have an evacuation plan with friends/family
Keep a large cooler stored in your home incase of long power outages (move fridge items to cooler!)
Turn your refrigerator/freezer to the coolest setting
Trim your trees/shrubbery that are near or touching your home
Unplug electronics (even if you have a surge protector)
Make a plan ahead of time for your pets (dogs, cats, etc.)

Local News Sources

It’s important to stay up to date as everything changes. Local News sources is the best place to get information before, during, and after the storm. Check out these sources to stay updated in Orlando: