(WTXL) — After the storm hits, it's hard to figure out what to do next. But, being ready now could be a life saver later.
"Hurricane season is a time where everybody is really like, 'Hey it's time to buckle down,'" said Justin Shelton with Noland's Roofing Inc.
And this year, with the COVID-19 pandemic affecting everyone, second generation roofer Justin Shelton says it's important to examine your home closely.
"Do you have any loose siding, do you have any windows that have cracks on them now?" Shelton said. "Have you found a shingle in your yard?"
You should also get rid of any debris that could take flight.
"If you have wind that's picking up, high enough to throw furniture and stuff like that around, it's easily going to pick up sticks and throw those around and it can be dangerous," said Reed Brown, the president of Red Hills Landworks.
Thirdly, gather up your insurance information, like your declaration page, and stick it in a safe place. Then, take inventory of what's in your home.
"If we have a catastrophe, trying to get in large numbers of people and trying to adjust claims is going to be difficult while trying to maintain the distance," said Allen McGinniss, an insurance agent.
With COVID-19 restrictions, Florida's Public Service Commission says to be prepared for longer power outages.
That might mean investing in a generator.
"You can do a whole house or portable generator and, if you were to buy a portable or window A/C unit that runs on very little ampage, that can get you by while the A/C is off," said Patrick Barineau, the president of Barineau Heating and Air Conditioning.
Taking these measures now will save you time and stress in the hours and days before a storm.
"Your house is your safe place," said Shelton. "That's your safe haven, that's where you want to be and protect everything and you shouldn't ever have to worry or stress about a storm every time it comes."