Hurricane season officially runs June 1 through November 30. However, the best time to prepare is before the season starts. The impacts of hurricanes can be devastating for your home and family. To reduce your risks, take these steps now to make sure your household is ready before the storm hits.

Develop an evacuation plan

An evacuation plan is necessary to help you and your family escape to safety in a timely fashion. Now is the time to begin planning where you would go and how you would get there. Plan several routes and be sure to account for every member of your household. If you don’t have a vehicle, check with local officials to see what transportation options may be available. Include a list of emergency contacts, including utilities and other critical services.

Assemble disaster supplies

Whether you’re evacuating or sheltering-in-place, you’ll to need supplies not just to get through the storm and the aftermath. Have enough non-perishable food, water and medicine to last each person in your household for at least three days. Make sure you have extra cash, a battery-powered radio and flashlights on hand.

Check your insurance

Contact your insurance company or agent and ask for an insurance check-up to make sure you have enough coverage to repair or replace your home and belongings. Remember, home and renter’s insurance typically doesn’t cover flooding, so you may need extra coverage for it. Flood insurance is available through your insurance company or through the National Flood Insurance Program.

Strengthen your home

Take time to prepare your home to withstand hurricane impacts, such as high wind and heavy rain. Trim trees, install storm shutters, accordion shutters and impact glass. Seal outside wall openings. Make sure you have proper plywood or aluminum panels on hand to board up windows and doors ahead of an approaching storm.

Share your emergency plan with every member of your household and make sure everyone knows what to do in case of a storm. Taking action now will help ensure the safety of your home and family all season long.