Storm Preparation Guide for Sanibel & Southwest Florida

Hurricane season officially begins on June 1, but preparation should begin long before a storm is on the radar. At Pfeifer Realty Group, we believe that being proactive can minimize stress, maximize safety, and ensure you’re ready, no matter what the season brings. Below is a comprehensive guide to help you prepare, stay informed, and protect your loved ones and property.

Key Preparedness Tip: While hurricane winds are dangerous, the greatest threat to life often comes from storm surge. If you're advised to evacuate, don't delay. Surge is powerful, fast, and not something you can outrun once it starts.

Hurricane Categories: Saffir-Simpson Scale

Before the Storm:

Initial Steps

• • Create a disaster and evacuation plan

  • Pre-register at a shelter if you have special medical needs

  • Arrange pet sheltering if needed

  • Secure boats and outdoor equipment

  • Backup important digital files

  • Freeze large containers of water for cooling and drinking

  • Confirm evacuation routes in advance

  • Pet-Friendly Shelters require pre-registration - Call 239-477-3600 to confirm pet shelter availability

Check your Disaster Supplies

Make sure your disaster kit includes:

• • Generator (tested and fueled)

  • Battery-powered radio & extra batteries

  • Flashlights & waterproof matches

  • Solar phone charger or battery pack

  • First aid kit

  • 2-week supply of medications

  • Manual can opener, non-perishable food

  • Bottled water (1 gal per person per day)

  • Hygiene items, bleach, soap

  • Tarps, tools, plastic bags

  • Ice chest, charcoal, grill fuel

  • Rain gear, sunscreen, bug spray

  • Work gloves, buckets, duct tape

Create a “Grab & Go” Emergency Box

Keep a waterproof container ready with:

• • Insurance documents & ID

  • Cash

  • Spare keys (home & car)

  • Prescription refills

  • Family contact list

  • Backup chargers

  • Heirloom photos or drives with backups

  • Home inventory (video/photo)

If You Evacuate

Don’t leave without a plan. Know your destination and route.
Evacuation routes depend on the storm’s path:

Last Minute Preparations:

• • Refill prescriptions & medical supplies

  • Fill gas tanks (vehicles & generators)

  • Stock food & ice for 7 days minimum

  • Charge devices

  • Bring in all outdoor furniture & objects

  • Secure windows & shutters

  • Move vehicles to higher ground

  • Place valuables in waterproof containers

  • Safeguard pets with food & carrier

  • Turn fridge/freezer to coldest setting

  • Post utility shut-off instructions

If Staying:

• • Identify a safe interior room away from windows

  • Stock it with: mattress, flashlights, water, radio, snacks, fire extinguisher, first aid kit

  • Do not go outside during the calm “eye” of the storm

  • Avoid using candles until the storm fully passes

Insurance Tips:

• • Review your policy well before a storm threatens

  • Update coverage based on current property values

  • Policies cannot be issued or changed once a named storm is active

  • Consider speaking with a Public Adjuster for post-storm claims

  • Fort Myers Insurance Office: 1-239-332-6948 | www.FLdfs.com

Important Emergency Numbers

Helpful Websites

• City of Sanibel

• Sanibel Facebook Page

• FEMA.gov

• NOAA Hurricane Tracking

• Florida Disaster Division

• Lee County Emergency Ops

• News-Press Fort Myers

Need a Printed Guide?

Pfeifer Realty Group offers printed pocket hurricane prep guides. Let us know and we’ll happily mail one to you.

Let’s Stay Connected

We’re here to help—whether you're preparing your home, relocating, or planning ahead for real estate decisions. Give us a call with your questions or if you’d like help reviewing your property’s current value in today’s market.

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