When hurricane season hits Florida, it’s essential to have a plan in place not just for your home and family, but also for your vehicle. While your house can offer protection from strong winds and heavy rain, your car is vulnerable to damage from debris, flooding, and falling trees. By taking the right precautions, you can reduce the risk of costly damage and keep your car safe. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to keep your car safe before a hurricane in Florida, including useful tips and links to help you prepare.
1. Know the Timing of the Storm
The first step in protecting your car during a hurricane is staying informed. Keep a close eye on weather updates from trusted sources like the National Hurricane Center (NHC) or your local news station. Hurricanes are usually predicted days in advance, giving you time to take the necessary precautions. You can also download apps like FEMA’s mobile app or AccuWeather to receive real-time weather alerts.
Helpful Link:
National Hurricane Center
2. Move Your Car to Higher Ground
One of the biggest threats to vehicles during a hurricane is flooding. If you live in a low-lying area, it’s important to move your car to higher ground as soon as a hurricane warning is issued. Look for a parking garage or a higher location where floodwaters are less likely to reach.
If parking garages aren’t available nearby, you can also consider parking your car on an elevated driveway or seek out high ground in your neighborhood.
3. Park Away from Trees and Power Lines
Hurricanes often bring powerful winds that can knock down trees, power lines, and debris, posing a serious risk to your car. Before the storm hits, move your vehicle away from large trees, poles, and any loose objects that could become projectiles during strong gusts. Park in an open area if possible or inside a garage for maximum protection.
4. Store Your Vehicle in a Garage
If you have access to a garage or covered parking, take advantage of it! Storing your car inside a garage offers the best protection from high winds and flying debris. Make sure to close the garage door securely, and if possible, reinforce it to withstand hurricane-force winds. You can also place sandbags or towels around the base of the garage door to prevent water from entering.
5. Cover Your Car
If you don’t have access to a garage, consider using a car cover to shield your vehicle from falling debris and rain. A heavy-duty, weather-resistant cover can provide a protective layer against dents and scratches. Just be sure to secure it tightly to prevent the wind from blowing it away. If you can’t find a cover, placing thick blankets over the car can also help prevent damage to the windows and body.
6. Fill Your Gas Tank
Before the storm arrives, fill your gas tank to full. Hurricanes can cause widespread power outages, which means gas stations may be closed for days or weeks. Having a full tank ensures you’re prepared if you need to evacuate quickly or if you’re without access to fuel after the storm. It’s also a good idea to carry a few gallons of gas in an approved container, just in case.
7. Disconnect the Battery
In some situations, water intrusion or power surges caused by flooding can damage your car’s electrical system. To prevent electrical issues, disconnect your car’s battery before the hurricane arrives. This simple step can protect your vehicle’s electronics from any water-related damage.
8. Seal Your Car’s Doors and Windows
To prevent water from entering your vehicle, make sure that all windows and doors are fully closed and properly sealed. Check the weather stripping around your doors and windows for any gaps or cracks. You can use a waterproof tape or plastic sheeting to add an extra layer of protection, especially if you have any small leaks around your windows or sunroof.
9. Remove Important Items from Your Car
Before the hurricane hits, be sure to remove any valuable or important items from your car. Hurricanes can lead to looting in some areas, so it’s best to take any electronics, personal documents, or other valuables out of the vehicle for safekeeping.
10. Have an Insurance Plan in Place
Make sure your auto insurance policy is up-to-date and covers hurricane damage, especially flooding, which is often excluded from standard policies. Check with your insurance provider to ensure you have comprehensive coverage that protects your car from natural disasters. In case your car is damaged, document everything by taking photos of your vehicle before and after the storm. This will help with any insurance claims you may need to file.
Helpful Link:
FEMA: Protecting Your Vehicle from Disasters
11. Use Sandbags or Block Water Entry Points
If you’re parking your car in a driveway or garage that’s prone to flooding, use sandbags to block potential entry points where water could seep in. Place them around the perimeter of your garage door or other areas where water might collect.
12. Secure Your Vehicle if Evacuating
If you have to evacuate, make sure your vehicle is safely stored before leaving. If you don’t have a garage, park it in a location that is less likely to flood and away from trees and debris. Make sure your car is locked and secured, and consider placing valuables in the trunk to keep them hidden.
Additional Resources and Helpful Links:
- FEMA’s Preparedness Guide: FEMA Hurricane Preparedness
- AAA Emergency Car Tips: AAA Hurricane Car Safety
- Florida Division of Emergency Management: FloridaDisaster.org
Hurricane season in Florida can be stressful, but taking these steps to prepare your vehicle can save you time, money, and hassle. From moving your car to higher ground to storing it in a secure garage, each precaution can reduce the risk of damage. Stay informed, have a plan, and protect your car the same way you protect your home and loved ones during a storm. With the right preparations, you can keep your car safe and ready to hit the road after the hurricane passes.
Stay safe, and don’t forget to check official websites for the latest updates and safety tips!
