What To Do In A Hurricane: Step-By-Step Safety Guide & Checklist

Know the risk and the alerts

Staying safe in a hurricane starts with understanding the warnings and what they really mean. The National Weather Service issues different alerts as a storm develops, and knowing the difference can be the cue for when to prepare versus when to act.

Hurricane watch vs. warning — what they mean and how to act

• Hurricane Watch: Conditions are possible, usually within 48 hours. This is your signal to top up supplies, fuel the car, and confirm your evacuation plan.
• Hurricane Warning: Conditions are expected, usually within 36 hours. This means it’s time to finish prep and follow evacuation orders without delay.

Hurricane categories (and why wind isn’t the whole story)

Storms are rated on the Saffir-Simpson scale, from Category 1 (74–95 mph winds) to Category 5 (157+ mph winds). But wind speed is only part of the danger. Storm surge and flooding from rain often cause more deaths and damage than the wind itself. Never downplay a “lower” category storm.

Main hazards of hurricanes

• Storm surge: Seawater pushed inland by the hurricane’s winds, capable of flooding entire neighborhoods.
• Inland flooding: Heavy rain can overwhelm rivers and drainage systems, even far from the coast.
• Wind and debris: Broken glass, flying branches, and roof damage pose direct injury risks.
• Tornadoes and rip currents: Hurricanes often spawn small tornadoes and leave behind strong surf conditions after the storm.

Before the hurricane — how to prepare

The most important things to do in a hurricane are preparation and planning. Preparing early makes the difference between scrambling last minute and riding out the storm with a measure of control. Think in terms of two kits — one for staying home and one for leaving — and cover your bases for power, safety, and documents.

Build two emergency kits (home & go-bag)

• Stay-at-home kit: at least two weeks of shelf-stable food, 1 gallon of water per person per day, first aid supplies, flashlight, batteries, and a battery-powered radio.
• Go-bag: portable essentials if you must evacuate: 3 days of food and water, medication, cash, power bank, copies of ID and insurance papers, pet supplies.

Evacuation plan & car readiness

• Know your evacuation zone and primary routes.
• Keep your gas tank at least half full during hurricane season.
• Carry paper maps in case GPS or cell networks go down.
• Make pet arrangements ahead of time; many shelters require proof of vaccinations.

Hardening your home (simple wins)

• Bring in or secure outdoor furniture, grills, and bikes.
• Install storm shutters or nail up plywood over windows.
• Clear gutters and drains so rainwater has somewhere to go.
• Elevate valuables off the floor in flood-prone areas.
• Fully charge phones and external batteries.

Power & fuel safety (before it goes dark)

• Set up generators outdoors, 20+ feet from doors or windows.
• Stock up on fuel but store it safely in approved containers.
• Never run a car, grill, or generator inside a garage or enclosed space.
• Install a carbon monoxide alarm on every level of your home.

Insurance & documents (admin that saves money later)

• Check if your homeowners policy has a hurricane deductible (often a % of your home’s value).
• Remember: flooding isn’t covered under standard homeowners insurance — it requires a separate NFIP policy.
• Store insurance policies, IDs, and property deeds in a waterproof container.
• Take photos or video of your home and belongings for faster claims.

Hurricane shutters - the best thing you can do

If you live in a hurricane-prone area, permanent shutters are the safest option. Many homeowners search for hurricane shutters near me well before hurricane season — don’t wait until a storm is days away, because supplies run out quickly. If shutters aren’t available, plywood can still provide some protection.

Types of hurricane shutters:

• Accordion shutters: fold out from the sides, quick to close, good for large windows.
• Roll-down shutters: retractable, strong, and lockable; can double as security shutters (most consider them the best hurricane shutters).
• Bahama shutters: hinge from the top, offer shade and storm protection, popular in the Caribbean.
• Colonial shutters: decorative, side-hinged, add curb appeal while still protective.

During the hurricane — how to ride it out safely

Once the winds rise, it’s time to hunker down. Your best chance of staying safe is following simple rules: stay inside, avoid floodwater, and protect yourself from flying debris.

If you’re at home or in an apartment

• Stay in a small, interior, windowless room on the lowest level. Bathrooms or hallways often work best.
• Keep away from windows and glass doors — don’t be tempted to peek outside.
• Use mattresses, pillows, or even bike helmets to protect against falling debris.
• If water begins rising inside, move to a higher floor, but avoid sealed attics where you could become trapped. Go to the roof only if absolutely necessary to signal for help.

Mobile homes and RVs

These are never safe in hurricane-force winds. If you haven’t evacuated yet, go immediately to a sturdier building or community hurricane shelter. Even tropical storm winds can flip an RV.

Cars and roads

• Don’t attempt to drive through floodwater. Just a foot of moving water can carry a vehicle away.
• If you’re caught on the road and water rises inside your car, abandon it and climb onto the roof if safe to do so.
• Obey roadblocks and barriers. They’re there because the road is unsafe, not just inconvenient.

After the hurricane — the first 72 hours

The storm may pass quickly, but the danger often lingers. Floodwaters, downed power lines, spoiled food and other hazards after a hurricane can be just as deadly as the winds. Approach the first three days after landfall with caution.

First safety sweep

• Stay away from downed wires and standing water, even in your yard.
• Check for the smell of gas; if you suspect a leak, turn off the supply and leave immediately.
• Photograph and video any damage before moving debris — it will help with insurance claims.

Water and food safety

• Assume tap water is unsafe until authorities confirm otherwise; boil or use bottled water.
• Discard refrigerated food if the power has been out for more than 12 hours.
• Keep freezer doors shut; a full freezer can hold food safely for 48 hours.
• When in doubt, throw it out — food poisoning is common after disasters.

Generator and CO poisoning risks

• Place generators outdoors, at least 20 feet from doors, windows, and vents.
• Never run them in garages, basements, or enclosed spaces.
• Install a battery-operated carbon monoxide alarm.

Clean-up and mold

• Wear gloves, boots, and an N95 mask if available when cleaning debris.
• Dry out soaked items as soon as possible; mold can start within 24–48 hours.
• Use bleach safely: never mix it with ammonia or other cleaners.
• If major flooding occurred, consider professional help for structural drying and mold removal.

Money help and claims

• Contact your insurer right away and provide photos or video of damage.
• Understand your hurricane deductible — it may be a percentage of your home’s insured value.
• Apply for FEMA assistance if losses aren’t covered by insurance.
• Low-interest disaster loans may be available from the SBA, even for renters.

What to do in a hurricane during your Caribbean vacation

The Caribbean is a dream destination, but storms can form quickly during hurricane season. A little planning and a calm response can help you survive a hurricane if one heads your way while you’re abroad.

Before you go

• Check the season: June to November is peak hurricane time. The southern Caribbean (Aruba, Bonaire, Curaçao) tends to see fewer direct hits.
• Buy travel insurance before a storm is named — once it’s on the map, it’s usually too late for coverage.
• Register with the STEP program (for U.S. citizens) or your country’s equivalent so your embassy can reach you.
• Pack a small emergency kit: flashlight, power bank, copies of passports, extra meds, and some cash in local currency.

If you’re in a hotel or resort

• Follow hotel and local authority instructions without hesitation. Resorts usually have storm protocols in place.
• Move to an interior hallway or ballroom — away from windows and balconies.
• Keep passports, essentials, water, snacks, and electronics in one small bag you can grab at any time.
• Expect power and internet outages. Conserve phone battery and download offline maps in advance.

Cruises during hurricane season

• Ships don’t sail into hurricanes — they reroute to safer waters, even if it means missing planned ports.
• Be flexible: itineraries can change at the last minute, and ports may be skipped or swapped.
• Cruise lines typically update passengers quickly; check their app or onboard announcements.

Flights, refunds, and guarantees

• Airlines often issue change-fee waivers when a storm is forecast to affect a destination.
• Hotels may allow cancellations or rescheduling without penalty.
• Travel insurance can reimburse prepaid expenses if your trip is interrupted or cut short.

Finding and using hurricane shelters

A public shelter can be a safe option if you live in a flood zone, a mobile home, or if officials issue an evacuation order. The key is to know where to go before the storm arrives.

Where to find shelters

• Local officials: City and county emergency management websites, social media, and local news outlets announce shelter openings and locations.
• Red Cross: The Red Cross Shelter Finder app and website list open shelters across the U.S.
• FEMA app: Shows disaster resources and real-time shelter locations.
• Outside the U.S.: Ask your hotel, local government, or embassy for safe locations — many Caribbean resorts have designated hurricane shelters on-site.

When to go

• Don’t wait for the worst: Head to a shelter as soon as evacuation orders are issued. Roads may flood quickly, and shelters can fill up.
• Travel early: Go during daylight if possible. Night travel during a storm increases risks.
• Bring essentials: Pack your go-bag with ID, medication, water, snacks, chargers, and anything you need for children or pets.

What to expect at a shelter

• Basic necessities like a safe place to sleep, drinking water, and emergency support.
• Limited privacy and space — think gymnasium or community center style.
• Rules for pets vary: many communities now open pet-friendly shelters, but check in advance.

What to bring to a shelter

• Government-issued ID, passports, or other important documents
• Prescription medications and basic first aid items
• Water and shelf-stable snacks
• Cell phone, charger, and power bank
• Cash and bank cards
• Change of clothes and sturdy shoes
• Blankets or sleeping bag if possible
• Hygiene items (toothbrush, soap, hand sanitizer, wet wipes)
• Supplies for infants (diapers, formula, bottles)
• Pet supplies (food, leash, carrier, vaccination records)

What NOT to bring to a shelter

• Alcohol, illegal drugs, or weapons
• Large or bulky items that take up excess space
• Perishable or strong-smelling foods
• Candles, gas lanterns, or other fire hazards
• Pets without carriers or proper documentation

These hurricane best practices may save your life in 2025

The 2025 Hurricane season is shaping up to be a very active one. The best protection is preparation — knowing where to go, what to bring, and how to act before, during, and after the storm. Whether you’re at home or traveling in the Caribbean, planning ahead can make all the difference.