How Businesses and Homeowners Can Prepare for Hurricane and Wildfire Season

Be proactive—because disaster doesn’t wait.

When a hurricane makes landfall or a wildfire ignites, it's already too late to start preparing. At RMC Group, we’ve seen firsthand how the right plan can mean the difference between total loss and a smooth recovery—for both businesses and homeowners. With storms growing stronger and wildfires spreading faster each year, being ready isn’t optional anymore—it’s essential.

Below, we’ve pulled key tips from our Hurricane and Wildfire Preparedness Guides to help you weather the storm, protect your property, and bounce back faster.

The Rising Threat

The numbers are sobering:

• An average of 62,277 wildfires burns over 7 million acres annually in the U.S. according to USAFacts
• Hurricanes are becoming more frequent and destructive, particularly in coastal regions.

Waiting until disaster strikes can leave you displaced, disconnected, or out of business for months. A little preparation today can save you a lot tomorrow.

Hurricane Preparedness for Homeowners

Hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30, and the time to act is now:

Stay Informed

• Sign up for emergency alerts through FEMA, Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA), and the Emergency Alert System (EAS).

Strengthen Your Property

• Install hurricane shutters or impact-resistant windows.
• Reinforce your roof and secure outdoor items.
• Trim trees and remove debris to reduce wind hazards.

Pack an Emergency Kit

• Include water, non-perishable food, medications, flashlights, phone chargers, and extra batteries.
• Don’t forget supplies for your pets!

Know Your Evacuation Plan

• Map out routes and practice with your family in advance.

Review Your Insurance

• Make sure you’re covered for wind and especially flood damage, which standard homeowner’s policies often exclude.

Wildfire Defense for Property Owners

For homes and buildings in fire-prone regions, prevention is key:

Create Defensible Space

• Clear 30 feet of brush and flammable material around the building.
• Cut grass short and prune low tree branches.
• Use fire-resistant materials like clay, concrete, or metal for roofs and siding.

Equip and Educate

• Place fire extinguishers in key locations.
• Make sure everyone knows evacuation routes and backup plans.

Pack a Go-Bag

• Include N95 masks, first-aid supplies, important documents, water, and chargers.

Include Animals in Your Plan

• Don’t forget your pets or livestock when creating evacuation strategies.

Business Continuity After Disaster

Recovery starts with readiness:

Before the Storm

• Create a business continuity plan:
  • Back up files and store them offsite.
  • Compile a list of emergency vendors and contractors.
  • Set up a communication plan for employees and clients.
  • Regularly review your insurance policies, including business interruption coverage.

After the Event

• Assess the damage, take photos, and contact your insurance broker immediately.

Don’t Wait—Start Today

Preparedness is a long-term investment in your family’s safety and your company’s future. The businesses that recover quickest are those that are prepared the most. Whether you’re protecting a home, a commercial property, or both—being proactive saves time, money, and lives. At RMC Group, we’re here to help you prepare before disaster strikes—with coverage options tailored to your risks, expert guidance, and resources to help safeguard what matters most.

Resources

📥 Download our free guides and listen to the podcast episode here
📞 Need help? Contact RMC Group to speak with a licensed insurance professional today at 239-298-8210
📱 Follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram at @rmcgp