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How to Prepare for Hurricane Season in Palm Coast Rentals

Maria V.

Hurricane season in Florida is a yearly event that runs from June 1 to November 30, and if you're renting in Palm Coast, it’s essential to be prepared to ensure your safety and protect your home. The coastal city’s beautiful location comes with the potential for hurricanes, so taking the right precautions can make all the difference in minimizing risks during storm season.

Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to prepare for hurricane season when renting in Palm Coast, from planning ahead to protecting your rental property and knowing what to do during an emergency.


Know Your Evacuation Zone

Palm Coast falls within an area that may be subject to evacuation orders during a major storm. Familiarize yourself with your evacuation zone and local shelters in case the need to evacuate arises. The Flagler County Emergency Management website provides detailed information about evacuation zones, routes, and shelters. It’s important to know the zone where your rental is located so that you can respond quickly if an evacuation is ordered.

Evacuation Zone

Tip: Bookmark the Flagler County evacuation zone map and keep a printed version in case you lose access to the internet during a power outage.


Prepare a Hurricane Emergency Kit

A hurricane emergency kit is crucial for your safety and comfort during a storm. Stock up on essential supplies well before hurricane season to avoid the last-minute rush. Here’s a list of items to include in your kit:

  • Water: At least 1 gallon per person per day for 3-7 days.

  • Non-perishable food: Enough for at least 3-7 days.

  • First aid kit and any necessary medications.

  • Battery-powered radio to receive news and weather updates if the power goes out.

  • Flashlights and extra batteries.

  • Chargers for your phone and other electronics (consider investing in a portable power bank).

  • Important documents: Insurance papers, identification, and rental agreements, all stored in a waterproof container.

  • Cash in case ATMs are down.

  • Personal hygiene items like hand sanitizer, wipes, and toiletries.

    Hurricane Emergency Kit

Tip: Don’t forget about your pets! Ensure you have enough pet food, water, and supplies, and prepare a pet carrier in case of evacuation.


Understand Your Rental Insurance Coverage

Before hurricane season starts, review your renter’s insurance policy to understand what’s covered. While your landlord’s insurance typically covers the building itself, you’ll need renter’s insurance to protect your personal belongings. Confirm whether your policy includes flood insurance, as flooding is a common risk during hurricanes, and standard renter’s insurance might not cover it. If it doesn’t, consider purchasing separate flood insurance through providers like the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).

National Flood Insurance Program

Tip: Take photos or videos of your belongings and keep an inventory of valuable items. This documentation can be crucial if you need to file an insurance claim after a storm.


Secure Your Rental Property

Though you may not own the property, taking steps to secure your rental during a hurricane is key to minimizing damage. Here are some measures you can take:

  • Check windows and doors: Ensure that all windows and doors seal properly. If your rental property has storm shutters, ask your landlord how to operate them. If shutters aren’t available, use plywood to board up windows.

  • Remove outdoor items: Bring in any outdoor furniture, potted plants, or decor that could become a projectile in high winds.

  • Secure loose objects: Tie down or store items like bikes, grills, or yard equipment.

  • Protect electronics: Unplug electronics and appliances to prevent damage from power surges, and move them away from windows and areas prone to water leaks.

    Secure Your Rental Property

Tip: Coordinate with your landlord about who is responsible for installing window protection (like plywood or shutters) and any necessary yard maintenance before the storm.


Develop a Communication Plan

In the event of a hurricane, phone lines and internet connections may be disrupted. Having a communication plan with your family, friends, and landlord can keep everyone informed of your status and next steps. Share your evacuation plans and keep an emergency contact list with the phone numbers of your landlord, neighbors, and local emergency services.

If you need to evacuate, inform your landlord of your plans and provide a reliable way to stay in touch. This way, they can keep you updated about the condition of the property after the storm.

Tip: Use text messaging instead of calls during a storm, as texts are more likely to go through when cell networks are overloaded.

Communication Plan

Stay Informed with Weather Alerts

Stay up-to-date on weather conditions by signing up for local alerts and monitoring the National Hurricane Center (NHC) for updates on potential storms. Reliable sources of information include:

  • NOAA Weather Radio

  • Local news stations

  • Smartphone apps like the FEMA app or Flagler County Emergency App, which provide real-time alerts and tips.

Follow the instructions of local authorities when they issue warnings or evacuation orders. Staying informed will give you time to take the necessary precautions and evacuate if necessary.


Plan for Evacuation if Necessary

If local authorities issue an evacuation order, it’s crucial to leave as soon as possible to avoid being caught in dangerous conditions. Keep your car’s gas tank full during hurricane season, and pre-pack your essentials, including clothing, documents, medications, and your emergency kit, so you can leave quickly.

Know the location of nearby shelters or, if you prefer, make arrangements to stay with family or friends outside the evacuation zone.

Tip: If you have pets, confirm that your shelter or evacuation destination accepts animals, as not all do.


Post-Storm Recovery and Safety

Once the storm has passed, it’s important to proceed with caution. Avoid returning to your rental property until local authorities confirm it’s safe. When you do return, take note of any damage and report it to your landlord immediately. Document damage with photos or videos for insurance purposes and avoid touching downed power lines or standing water, which could be electrically charged.

Your landlord will likely handle major repairs, but it's crucial to notify them promptly of any issues like broken windows, leaks, or structural damage.

Post-Storm Recovery and Safety

Preparing for hurricane season in Palm Coast is an essential part of renting in Florida. By knowing your evacuation zone, preparing an emergency kit, securing your property, and staying informed, you can significantly reduce risks during a hurricane. At Oasis Rentals, we want to ensure that you feel safe and prepared, and we encourage all our tenants to take these steps before hurricane season arrives.

If you have any questions about hurricane preparedness or the safety features of your rental property, feel free to contact Oasis Rentals, and we’ll be happy to assist you.


Sources:

  • Flagler County Emergency Services

  • National Hurricane Center

  • FEMA Hurricane Preparedness


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