1. Being prepared throughout the hurricane season
   1. Learn about the area you live in
      1. In an evacuation area?
      2. Mark any evacuation shelters near your home on a map
      3. Pay attention to the topography around your home
      4. Locate high-ground in your neighborhood in case your home floods
   2. Stock your home with food and water
      1. Stock at least 3 to 5 days' worth of food and water per person
      2. Get food that doesn't go bad
   3. Gather other necessary supplies
      1. Medical supplies
      2. A battery-operated radio
      3. A flashlight
      4. Extra batteries for all your devices
      5. Extra blankets
      6. Personal care items
      7. A fire extinguisher
   4. Put together an emergency car kit
      1. Non-perishable food and water
      2. Emergency flares
      3. Jumper cables
      4. First-aid kit
      5. Blankets
      6. Flashlights and extra batteries
      7. A map
      8. A GPS navigator
   5. Make an emergency plan
      1. Decide at what point you will leave your home
      2. A list of locations you can stay
      3. How to communicate with other family members
      4. Plan what you will do with your pets (if you have any)
   6. Install a generator
   7. Take photos of your home and store them safely for insurance claim
   8. Keep trees and shrubs around your home well-trimmed
   9. Get the necessary insurance
2. Preparing as the hurricane approaches
   1. Keep up with the latest information
   2. Remove any loose items outside your home
   3. Withdraw cash
   4. Board up your windows
   5. Fill your car's gas tank
   6. Store all important papers in a safe, waterproof location
   7. Check your emergency supplies
   8. Evacuate if ordered to
3. Staying safe when the storm hits
   1. Follow all instructions from local authorities
   2. Fill bathtubs and buckets with water
   3. Turn your refrigerator and freezer to the coldest settings
   4. Turn off propane tanks
   5. Stay away from windows and glass doors
   6. Stay inside until local authorities have confirmed that the storm has passed
4. Staying safe after the storm
   1. Document any damage done to your home for insurance purposes
   2. Avoid drinking tap water until authorities confirm it's not contaminated
   3. Report any structural damage to your home or neighborhood
   4. Travel with caution
   5. Return to your home only when officials say it's safe