10 MOST COMMON MISTAKES PEOPLE MAKE BEFORE A HURRICANE

Thinking “It won’t happen to me.”
It’s essential to follow the advice of local authorities and stay up to date with official communications. Denial won’t protect you—staying informed will.

Putting tape on windows.
Taping your windows does nothing to prevent them from shattering. In fact, it can make things worse by creating larger, more dangerous shards. The best practice is to cover doors and windows with materials designed to withstand winds of 185 mph (300 km/h) or more.

Using sandbags or cinder blocks at the door to stop flooding.
Sandbags can help redirect water but won’t stop it from entering your home. Don’t rely on them as your only line of defense.

Assuming only coastal residents need to evacuate.
Wrong. If a hurricane is Category 3 or higher, everyone in the path, not just those on the coast, may need to evacuate. Always listen to local emergency management—it's for your safety.

Cracking windows or doors “just a little.”
Hurricane winds are extremely turbulent and forceful. Even a slightly open door or window—even in the back of your house—can let in hot air and debris, leading to structural damage or worse.

Panic buying at the last minute.
We often have a week or more of warning before a hurricane hits. Avoid waiting until the last minute to stock up. Monitor weather updates early and prepare calmly and ahead of time.

Boarding up with plywood (triply).
While plywood might seem like a good idea, it's often not strong enough. Hurricanes can launch heavy debris—like metal sheets, tree branches, or signage—at high speeds. These can pierce or rip away thin wood easily. Proper anchoring and impact-resistant materials are key.

Not having an emergency kit.
You should always have a basic emergency kit, including essential supplies and important documents stored in a waterproof bag or backpack that’s easy to grab.

Failing to shut off electricity and gas.
When authorities issue an Orange Alert (meaning a cyclone is close enough to pose a serious threat), shut off your home’s electricity and close the main gas valve. This can prevent fires or explosions during the storm.

Leaving your shelter without official notice.
A common mistake is stepping outside when it “feels calm.” Be warned—this might be the eye of the hurricane, not the end of the storm. Always wait for clear, official confirmation from local authorities before you come out of shelter.