Hurricane Safety Tips: How to Prepare Your Home and Family

by Kristie Wheeles

Hurricane Safety Tips for Living on the Alabama Gulf Coast

Living along the Alabama Gulf Coast means enjoying beautiful beaches and sunny days, but it also means being prepared for hurricane season. Officially running from June 1 through November 30, hurricane season requires residents of Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, and Foley to take steps to keep their homes, families, and belongings safe. Whether you’re new to the area or a longtime resident, these tips will help you stay prepared and protected.

1. Know Your Evacuation Zone and Routes

Before a storm approaches, it’s important to know your evacuation zone and main routes. In Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, HWY 59 and the Foley Beach Express are the primary evacuation roads. Plan to leave 24–36 hours before gale-force winds are expected, and don’t forget your hurricane re-entry passes.

2. Build a Hurricane Emergency Kit

Having the right supplies makes all the difference. A well-stocked hurricane kit should include:

Water (1 gallon per person, per day, for 3–7 days)
Non-perishable food and a manual can opener
Flashlights, extra batteries, and portable chargers
First aid kit and prescription medications
Toiletries and personal hygiene items
Clothing, blankets, and sturdy shoes
Baby and pet supplies, if needed
Important documents stored in a waterproof pouch

3. Secure Your Home

Protecting your property helps reduce storm damage:

Bring in outdoor furniture, décor, and potted plants
Board up or secure windows and doors
Clear gutters and drains of debris
Unplug electronics to avoid surge damage
Turn refrigerators and freezers to the coldest setting
Safely store propane and grill tanks

If you own a Gold Fortified home, your roof and structure may already have extra protection—but taking these additional steps gives extra peace of mind.

4. Protect Your Documents and Insurance Coverage

Storms can cause unexpected losses, so having your paperwork ready is essential:

Take photos or videos of your home and valuables for insurance purposes
Store ID, insurance policies, and medical records in a waterproof bag
Make digital copies and save them in the cloud or on a flash drive
Review your insurance coverage in advance to confirm what is protected

5. Stay Informed and Connected

During hurricane season, knowledge is power. Sign up for local weather alerts, keep a battery-powered or hand-crank radio handy, and stay connected with family and neighbors about your evacuation plan. Make sure to have cash ready, charge your devices, and fill your gas tank early to avoid long lines.

Final Thoughts

Hurricane preparation can feel overwhelming, but taking proactive steps ensures that you and your family stay safe when storms approach. From planning ahead and building a kit to securing your home and protecting important documents, every step brings peace of mind.

At Wheeles Realty, we care about our Gulf Coast community. Stay safe, stay prepared, and remember that planning ahead is the best way to protect what matters most.