Three-minute read.
Storm Smarts: Seven Hurricane Prep Tips
When hurricane season hits, most people grab bottled water and snack like it’s a survival challenge. But for a community association, the stakes are higher and the to-do list is longer. From patio chairs taking flight to residents frantically asking, “Do we have a plan?”, hurricane prep can be chaos unless you’re ready.
Here’s how your HOA can prep like pros and have a little fun along the way:
1️⃣ Declutter the Outdoors
Anything that isn’t bolted down can become a flying hazard. Think pool chairs, planters, trash bins, and those adorable but dangerous garden gnomes. Host a pre-storm cleanup sprint and see who can clear the most items in record time. Winner gets community fame and a cold soda.
2️⃣ Create a Communication Game Plan
Everyone should know what to do before, during, and after the storm. Set up a system that doesn’t rely entirely on the internet or power. Include phone trees, group texts, printed flyers, and designated point people in each building. The goal is simple: no one should be left wondering what’s going on.
3️⃣ Get Powered Up
Make sure generators are serviced, fueled, and ready to go. Install emergency lights in hallways and entrances. If you’ve got a clubhouse, turn it into a backup charging station for residents. When the power’s out and you’re the only one with a phone charger, you’ll be a community legend.
4️⃣ Prep the Paperwork
Insurance policies, board contacts, vendor lists, and building plans should be saved digitally and printed out in a good old-fashioned binder. Name it something exciting like “Storm Survival Central” and make sure board members and managers know where to find it.
5️⃣ Check on Your Residents
Identify people who might need extra help. Elderly residents, families with young kids, and pet owners often face more challenges evacuating or preparing. Knowing who needs support ahead of time can make all the difference.
6️⃣ Set Expectations for After the Storm
Let residents know how damage assessments will happen, who to contact, and what services might be delayed. Communication shouldn’t stop once the wind dies down. Keeping everyone updated helps avoid panic and confusion.
7️⃣ Celebrate Surviving
Once it’s safe, gather the community for a “We Made It” moment. Even a simple gathering with snacks and shared stories goes a long way in rebuilding morale. You survived a hurricane. That deserves a little cheer.
No one looks forward to hurricane season, but with the right preparation and a few neighborly laughs, your association can handle anything the skies throw your way. Stay smart, stay safe, and remember to keep the flashlight batteries fresh.
