HOMEOWNER RESOURCES
Hurricane Preparedness Guide
Essential information for protecting your Volusia County home before, during, and after a tropical storm or hurricane.
⚠️ Hurricane Season: June 1 - November 30
Florida's Atlantic coast is particularly vulnerable during August through October. Don't wait until a storm is approaching to prepare.
Before Hurricane Season
Preparation is key. These steps should be completed before the season begins:
Know Your Zone
Volusia County has evacuation zones A through E. Zone A is most vulnerable (barrier islands and beachside areas). Know which zone your property is in:
- Zone A: New Smyrna Beach beachside, Daytona Beach Shores, Ponce Inlet, beachside Ormond
- Zone B: Areas near the Intracoastal Waterway
- Zone C-E: Mainland areas including most of Port Orange
Review Your Insurance
Standard homeowners insurance does NOT cover flood damage. You need:
- Homeowners Insurance: Covers wind damage (check your hurricane deductible - usually 2-5% of home value)
- Flood Insurance: Required in flood zones, recommended for everyone
- Review Coverage Limits: Make sure dwelling coverage matches rebuilding costs
Note: There's typically a 30-day waiting period for new flood insurance policies.
Pre-Season Checklist
- Review and update insurance policies
- Document your belongings with photos/video
- Trim trees and remove dead branches
- Check roof for loose shingles or tiles
- Clean gutters and downspouts
- Test hurricane shutters or buy plywood
- Service generator and stock fuel
- Create a home inventory for insurance
- Identify pet-friendly shelters or hotels
- Know your evacuation route
When a Storm is Approaching
5-7 Days Out
Monitor the storm. Check supplies. Fill prescriptions. Get cash from ATM. Begin reviewing your evacuation plan.
3-5 Days Out
Fill vehicles with gas. Stock up on water (1 gallon per person per day for 7 days). Charge all devices. Prepare important documents.
1-2 Days Out
Install hurricane shutters or plywood. Bring in outdoor furniture. Turn refrigerator to coldest setting. Fill bathtub with water for flushing toilets.
Evacuation Ordered
If your zone is ordered to evacuate, LEAVE. Take important documents, medications, phone chargers, and supplies for several days.
Emergency Supply Kit
- Water - 1 gallon per person per day (7 days)
- Non-perishable food and manual can opener
- Flashlights and extra batteries
- First aid kit
- Medications (7-day supply minimum)
- Important documents in waterproof container
- Cash (ATMs may not work)
- Cell phone and portable charger
- Battery-powered or hand-crank radio
- Pet food and supplies
During the Storm
If you're sheltering in place (not in an evacuation zone):
- Stay away from windows and glass doors
- Stay in an interior room on the lowest floor
- Do NOT go outside during the eye - the storm will resume
- Monitor local news for updates
- Don't use candles - use flashlights
- Turn off propane tanks
- Avoid using the phone except for emergencies
After the Storm
Safety First
- Wait for official all-clear before going outside
- Watch for downed power lines - assume all are live
- Don't wade through flood water (contamination, hidden debris)
- Photograph all damage before cleanup for insurance
- Don't run generators indoors - carbon monoxide kills
- Throw out food that may have spoiled (when in doubt, throw it out)
Insurance Claims
- Document ALL damage with photos and video immediately
- Make temporary repairs to prevent further damage (save receipts)
- Contact your insurance company as soon as possible
- Keep all receipts for emergency repairs and expenses
- Don't sign contracts with "storm chasers" - vet all contractors
Returning Home After Evacuation
- Wait until local officials say it's safe to return
- Watch for road hazards and closures
- If your home was flooded, don't turn on electricity until inspected
- Check for structural damage before entering
- Open windows to air out the house
Important Contacts & Resources
Volusia County Emergency Management
Official evacuation orders and shelter information
volusia.org/emergency-management →Emergency Phone Numbers
- Emergency: 911
- Volusia County Emergency Info Line: (866) 345-0345
- FEMA Disaster Assistance: 1-800-621-3362
- Florida Insurance Consumer Helpline: 1-877-693-5236
Special Considerations for Coastal Properties
If you own beachside property in New Smyrna Beach, Daytona Beach Shores, or Ponce Inlet:
- Evacuation is mandatory for Zone A during major hurricanes
- Storm surge is often more dangerous than wind - take it seriously
- Condo owners: Know your association's hurricane plan
- Secure or remove items from balconies
- Know where your building's main water shutoff is located
- Have flood insurance even if not required - storm surge can be catastrophic
🌊 Check Your Property's Storm Risk
Get instant flood zone analysis, evacuation zone info, and insurance estimates for any coastal property.
📊 FREE RISK ASSESSMENT →Questions About Your Property's Storm Risk?
My KCAP assessment includes flood zone analysis and insurance cost projections. Understanding your property's risk profile is essential for coastal homeownership.
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