Hurricane Season is Coming PREPARE NOW!

Hurricane season is around the corner, and Hurricane Preparedness Week in May is the perfect time for JOEMC members to get storm-ready. A little planning today can save you from major headaches later! 

Home Maintenance Focus 

Tackle home maintenance and storm-proofing before severe weather becomes a real threat. Start with these simple steps: 

• Trim trees & remove dead branches to prevent storm damage 

• Test your generator & replenish fuel supplies 

• Check & reinforce your roof, siding, and gutters 

• Inspect doors, windows & hurricane shutters for weak spots 

• Test and maintain your sump pump (if you have one) 

 

Build an Emergency Kit 

Take time NOW to check your emergency kit. Make sure you have: 

• Flashlights & fresh batteries for power outages 

• Non-perishable food & water (at least 3 days’ worth) for your family and your pets 

• Important documents stored in a waterproof container 

• Fully charged power banks for your devices 

 

Insurance & Financial Prep 

Recovering from a storm is hard enough—don’t let financial surprises make it worse. Now is the time to review your insurance policy and make sure you’re covered. Ask yourself: 

• Do I have flood insurance? (Standard policies don’t cover flooding, and it takes 30 days to activate!) 

• Are my important documents (ID, insurance, bank info) stored in a waterproof, easy-to-access place? 

• Do I have an emergency fund or access to quick cash if needed? 

 

Evacuation Plan 

If a storm forces you to evacuate, do you know where to go? Don’t wait for an emergency—plan your evacuation route now: 

• Identify multiple safe routes out of your area 

• Locate your nearest hurricane shelters 

• Pack a go-bag with essential supplies (medications, cash, ID, and more) 

• Create a family communication plan in case you get separated 

 

Stay Informed 

With power outages and service disruptions, how will you receive emergency updates? Set yourself up for success: 

• Download the JOEMC app 

• Follow us on social media 

• Be sure you are signed up for outage text alerts 

• Make sure your contact info is up to date in your JOEMC Member Portal 

• Get a NOAA weather radio for real-time updates 

• Sign up for local emergency alerts & weather notifications 

At JOEMC, we’re always preparing for storms so we can respond quickly and restore power safely. Let’s work together to stay safe and connected this hurricane season.