Stay safe with our expert guide on what to do in a hurricane. Learn how to prepare before, during, and after the storm—especially for seniors in Florida. Smart tips that could save your life.
Hurricane season in Florida can be unpredictable, but your response to it doesn’t have to be. For seniors in The Villages and surrounding areas, thoughtful planning can make all the difference in keeping you safe and reducing stress during extreme weather.
Here’s your no-fluff guide to storm readiness, made specifically with older adults in mind.
WHAT TO DO IN A HURRICANE
📋 Hurricane Checklist for Seniors
In addition to the basic kits covered in Part 1, make sure you have:
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A backup cane, walker, or wheelchair parts
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Extra eyeglasses and hearing aid batteries
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Waterproof pouch with ID, medication list, insurance, and medical equipment info
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Printed emergency contacts list (not just on your phone)
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A list of pet-friendly evacuation shelters
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Copies of shelter locations/routes in case of evacuation
👉 Pro Tip: Sign up for Smart911 to ensure emergency responders have your medical info on file.
🚗 Build Your Evacuation Plan
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Map out two escape routes from every room in your home.
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Identify where to meet family members outside the house.
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Keep your car gassed up and stocked with maps and emergency supplies.
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Locate your nearest shelter—especially one that accommodates medical or pet needs.
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Store your plan in your emergency binder or kit.
📞 Family Communication Protocol
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Designate an out-of-town contact in case local cell towers go down.
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Share contact cards with loved ones.
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Register on the Red Cross Safe & Well website in case of separation.
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Enable text/email alerts from your local emergency management agency.
🌪️ What to Do During Severe Weather
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Monitor updates by radio, TV, or trusted apps.
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If a tornado is coming, go to a basement, bathroom, or hallway—away from windows.
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Do NOT use candles during a storm; use flashlights or emergency lights.
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Avoid using landline phones or running water during lightning.
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Follow all evacuation orders. If told to leave, don’t delay.
🚘 Car & Travel Safety
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Only drive if necessary. Flooded roads are deadly—just 6 inches of water can sweep you off your feet, and 2 feet can carry away most vehicles.
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Never try to outrun a tornado in a car. Get out and lie flat in a low area away from bridges or trees.
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Keep a car emergency kit with essentials like water, a blanket, a charger, and food.
🌤️ After the Storm
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Stay indoors until authorities say it’s safe.
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Avoid downed wires and floodwaters.
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Help neighbors, especially those who live alone.
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Sanitize all items that got wet. When in doubt, throw it out.
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Ventilate your space and avoid using grills or generators indoors.
📷 Take photos of any damage ASAP and immediately contact your insurance company.
🧭 Conclusion
Preparedness isn’t a one-time task—it’s an ongoing commitment to safety and peace of mind. With your plan in place, your kits stocked, and your routes mapped out, you’ll be ready for whatever this hurricane season brings.
And remember: if you’re unsure whether to stay or go, call us. We help seniors explore short-term respite care or temporary relocation options during hurricanes and other emergencies.
RELATED CONTENT
HURRICANE & SEVERE WEATHER PREPAREDNESS FOR SENIORS
IMPORTANT JULY 4TH SAFETY TIPS FOR THE ELDERLY
And just like you, I’ve been a caregiver.
I share my knowledge and tips to help seniors and families as they navigate the complicated process of senior living options.
- ARE YOU A SENIOR THINKING OF MOVING OUT OF FLORIDA? - June 1, 2025
- WHAT TO DO BEFORE, DURING & AFTER THE HURRICANE - May 29, 2025
- WHAT HAPPENS IF THE CAREGIVER HAS A CRISIS? - May 27, 2025
