Hurricane Season Is Heating Up — Here’s What You Should Do Now to Protect Your Home

At MyHandyGay.com, we understand the kind of damage a storm can inflict on your home and your peace of mind. As hurricane season approaches in Southwest Florida, now is the perfect time to prepare your property before the next storm strikes.

Whether you’re a year-round resident or a seasonal homeowner, these essential steps can help minimize damage, protect your investment, and keep your family safer.

Essential Steps to Prepare for Hurricane Season

1. Check & Secure Outdoor Fixtures

Loose items like patio furniture, planters, grills, and yard decor can become dangerous projectiles in high winds.

What to do:

• Anchor or store these items indoors.

• Consider having us install hurricane-rated tie-downs or storage solutions.

  
  

2. Inspect Doors & Windows

Old or damaged seals can allow water and wind to enter your home. Your windows and doors are your first line of defense against the elements.

What to do:

• Check for cracks or weak hinges.

• Upgrade to impact-rated hardware or install storm shutters.

• Schedule a hurricane-readiness inspection with us.

  
  

3. Clean Gutters & Drains

Clogged gutters can lead to roof and soffit damage during heavy rains.

What to do:

• Clean out gutters and downspouts regularly.

• Ensure water drains away from your home’s foundation.

• We offer full gutter clean-outs and roofline inspections.

  
  

4. Trim Trees & Vegetation

Overgrown branches can snap off and cause damage to your roof, car, or even a neighbor’s home.

What to do:

• Cut back dead limbs and any branches near windows or your roofline.

• Remove coconuts and seed pods from palm trees.

• Ask about our landscaping safety cuts.

  
  

5. Test Your Backup Power

If you rely on a generator or battery backup, now is the time to test it—not after the power goes out.

What to do:

• Run your generator and check fuel levels.

• Ensure proper ventilation and a safe setup.

• Need help installing a transfer switch? We’ve got you covered.

  
  

6. Stock Up & Stay Informed

While we handle the hardware, don’t forget your emergency essentials.

What to do:

• Restock your hurricane kit with flashlights, batteries, water, non-perishables, and important documents.

• Sign up for local emergency alerts and weather updates.

  
  

7. Create a Family Emergency Plan

Having a plan in place can make all the difference when a storm approaches.

What to do:

• Discuss your plan with all family members.

• Designate a safe meeting place.

• Ensure everyone knows how to reach each other.

  
  

8. Review Your Insurance Policy

Now is the time to check if your insurance covers storm damage.

What to do:

• Review your policy details.

• Contact your insurance agent to clarify any doubts.

• Consider additional coverage if necessary.

  
  

9. Prepare Your Vehicle

Your vehicle is essential for evacuations and emergencies.

What to do:

• Keep your gas tank full.

• Check tire pressure and fluid levels.

• Ensure your spare tire and emergency kit are in the car.

  
  

10. Stay Connected

Communication is vital during a storm.

What to do:

• Keep your mobile devices charged.

• Have a portable charger ready.

• Stay updated via local news and weather apps.

  
  

Need Help? That’s Where We Come In.

We offer storm-prep inspections, gutter cleaning, shutter installation, and more to help you stay protected before the wind picks up.

Let us help you weather this storm season with confidence and peace of mind.

Call or text us today at (970) 214-8934.

Visit us at www.MyHandyGay.com.

We are Southwest Florida’s trusted handyman for home prep, repairs, and peace of mind.

Don’t wait until it’s too late—prep now, relax later.

Stay safe,

Eric

Owner, MyHandyGay.com