Hurricanes can be violent and dangerous to your family and your home. Before a major storm threatens your community, take steps to secure your home and protect yourself, your loved ones, and your property.

When it’s hurricane season

Hurricane season starts June 1 and runs through November 30. But don’t wait until a warning—take steps to prepare in advance for a potential hurricane—it’s the best way to protect your family, your home and your business.

Know when hurricane season starts.

The best preparation plan for hurricanes begins before the first storm arrives. Atlantic hurricane season starts June 1 and runs through November 30 every year. But don’t wait until a warning is issued—take steps to prepare in advance for a potential hurricane—it’s the best way to protect your family, home, and business.

Take action when a hurricane watch is issued.

A hurricane watch is issued when there is a threat of a hurricane within a 24-36-hour period. At that time, you should:

  • Purchase any emergency supplies that you don’t already have on hand. Hit the stores early, as items such as batteries, candles, flashlights and bottled water will get snapped up quickly.
  • Prepare your yard by removing all outdoor furniture, lawn items, planters and other materials that could be picked up by high winds. Also remove weak branches on plants and trees. Lower antennas and retractable awnings.
  • Fully charge your cellphone.
  • Fill your car’s gasoline tank.
  • Jot down the name and phone number of your insurer and insurance professional and keep this information handy in your wallet or purse.

When a warning is issued stay informed and ready.

A hurricane warning is issued when hurricane conditions are expected in 24 hours or less, which means a storm is imminent.

  • Stay informed of the storm’s progress by listening to the radio or TV. Even better, listen to an NOAA Weather Radio for critical information from the National Weather Service (NWS).
  • Install hurricane shutters, board up or securely shutter large windows and draw drapes across windows and doors.
  • Get off the boat—never remain on a boat during a hurricane! Check mooring lines of boats in the water and dry dock if possible.

Be ready in case evacuation becomes necessary

Make sure you are fully prepared with an evacuation plan. Also, remember:

  • Don’t wait until the last minute—shelters might be full, or the roads might be jammed. If you have pets, consider traveling before an evacuation is ordered. There is a possibility that officials will require you to leave your pet home.
  • Take along survival supplies from your list.
  • Keep important documents with you at all times, including your home inventory, and make sure you have your insurance professional’s name and phone number.
  • Take warm, protective clothing for the whole family in case you get stuck for a while.
  • Lock all windows and doors in your home. Don’t compound hurricane damage with the threat of possible looters.
  • Keep all receipts for anything that might be considered an additional living expense (ALE) if your home is destroyed or damaged and rendered uninhabitable.

Take safety precautions if you remain home during a hurricane

Stay indoors. Don’t go out even during the brief calm when the eye of the storm passes over, as wind speeds can increase dramatically in seconds.

  • Stay away from windows and glass doors and move furniture away from exposed doors and windows.
  • Stay on the downwind side of the house. If your home has an “inside” room with no windows, stay there during the height of the hurricane.
  • Keep the television or radio tuned to information from official sources.

After the hurricane, be vigilant of the dangers that remain

The storm may have passed, but it likely has created new dangers.

  • Beware of outdoor hazards like loose or fallen tree limbs, loose signage, or awnings that are in danger of breaking off and falling.
  • Keep away from loose or dangling power lines and report them immediately to the proper authority.
  • Walk or drive extra cautiously as washouts may weaken road and bridge structures.
  • In the event of a power outage, throw out food that may be spoiled.
  • Boil municipal water before drinking until you have been told it is safe.

Take action if your home is damaged.

Notify your insurance professional as soon as possible after the storm of any losses. If you have to relocate, let your representative know how to contact you. In addition:

  • Make temporary repairs as soon as possible if these can be done safely. This strategy will protect your property from further damage or looting; however, keep all receipts for materials used for insurance purposes.
  • Get written estimates for any proposed repair jobs and use only reputable contractors. Be especially careful of building contractors who want huge deposits up front or encourage you to spend a lot on temporary repairs. Ask for their references and check with the Better Business Bureau on complaints. Never accept help from a door-to-door contractor solicitation!
  • Hang on to your receipts for expenses that will be covered by insurance or will be tax-deductible.

Read Other Blog Posts

What You Need to Know About Condominium Insurance in Groton MA

What You Need to Know About Condominium Insurance in Acton, MA

If you own a condo in Acton, MA, don’t assume the condo association’s master policy fully protects you. That policy typically covers the building’s exterior and shared spaces, but not the inside of your unit. Without your own Condominium Insurance, you could be on the hook for costly repairs to your walls, floors, or fixtures and replace personal belongings damaged by fire, water, or theft. It’s essential protection that helps ensure you’re not left paying out of pocket when the unexpected happens.
Sparkler 1200

Summer Fun and 4th of July Safety: Celebrating Smart

Summer is a time for BBQs, fireworks, family gatherings, and making the most of long days. Whether you’re heading to the beach, firing up the grill, or watching fireworks with the kids, safety should always be part of your celebration plans. After all, the best memories are the ones made without unexpected trips to the ER. Here’s a quick guide to help you enjoy your Independence Day and summer activities — while keeping everyone safe and sound.
Lightning

Lightning Storm Safety

Lightning storms light up the sky in dramatic fashion, but they’re also dangerous. A lightning strike can cause major injuries like burns, heart issues, or even brain damage. That’s why it’s important to know how to stay safe when one rolls into your area. Follow these helpful tips to help you stay safe.
Car in traffic

Risks of Lowering Auto Coverage

Many drivers look to reduce their auto insurance premiums by lowering coverage or dropping parts of their policy altogether. While it’s true that cutting back can save a few dollars in the short term, the long-term consequences of being underinsured can be financially devastating—especially in the aftermath of a serious accident. Learn about ways you can save without exposing yourself to major financial risk.
Students

The Good Student Discount

Teens and young adults often face hefty auto insurance premiums because, statistically, new drivers are more likely to get into car accidents. However, most carriers offer a way to help offset some of this financial burden—a good student discount. Learn more about how to qualify.
Senior driver

Driving Safely As You Grow Older

As you get older and wiser, you might come to the realization that you just can’t do some things quite like you used to. When it comes to driving, it's important to stay safe and feel confident behind the wheel. Learn about smart driving tips for seniors and precautions to ensure your safety and that of those around you on the road.
MHM 1

Introducing the Murphy Insurance Homeowner’s Manual: Your Guide to Preventing Costly Home Repairs & Damages

Murphy Insurance Agency has launched a new Homeowner’s Manual designed to help you prevent costly home repairs and avoid common insurance claims. Backed by decades of real-world experience, this practical guide offers seasonal tips, safety advice, and a maintenance checklist to protect your home—and your wallet—all year long. Download your copy today!
Protecting Your Marlborough Home A Local Guide to Homeowners Insurance

Protecting Your Marlborough Home: A Local Guide to Homeowners Insurance

Thinking about homeowners' insurance in Marlborough, MA? Whether you're settling into your first home or reviewing your coverage, Murphy Insurance offers expert guidance and tailored protection designed for New England’s unique risks. Discover what’s included, what to expect, and how our local team can help you protect what matters most.
House with trees

10 Signs a Tree May Fall on Your Property

Trees can be valuable additions to any property; however, each year, fallen trees and branches cause millions of dollars in property damage. It is crucial to proactively recognize signs a tree may be at risk of falling to help prevent dangerous and costly accidents.

Visit Our Homeowners Insurance Page

Homeowners Insurance

At Murphy Insurance, we take great care in assessing your options for homeowners insurance to ensure that you receive the most favorable value. Our dedication to serving you entails collaborating with highly-rated insurance providers and conducting comprehensive assessments of available choices. Our goal is to achieve the ideal equilibrium between affordability and coverage that suits your unique needs. Please let us provide you with a customized homeowners insurance quote.