Hurricane Help - We Want You to Be Prepared!
Editor’s Note (Updated November 2025): With hurricane activity increasing across the Southeast in recent years, preparation is more important than ever. At Ernest Homes, we’re committed to helping families across Savannah, Richmond Hill, Guyton, and Effingham County stay safe and ready during hurricane season. For additional homeowner resources, visit our Ernest Homes Blog.
Hurricane Preparedness Tips for Coastal Georgia Families
With another hurricane season underway, all of us at Ernest Homes want to remind you that one of the most important things you can do for your family is to protect them when a major storm approaches coastal Georgia. While the Coastal Empire went nearly 20 years without a mandatory evacuation, recent seasons have shown how quickly conditions can change. By preparing in advance, you’ll give your family peace of mind and ensure everyone knows what to do if an evacuation becomes necessary.
Once you’ve created your plan, write down evacuation routes, meeting points, and responsibilities and post the information somewhere every family member can access easily. Assign specific tasks to each person and practice the plan at least once each year.
Select a family meeting place in advance.
If family members must leave in separate vehicles or from different locations, choose a safe reunion spot located inland and outside of projected storm-surge zones. Make sure everyone knows at least two alternate routes to reach the meeting point. Children should memorize the address, the host’s name, and a contact number. A printable family emergency plan from Ready.gov can help organize essential information.
Prepare for limited communication.
Phone and internet service may be disrupted during a storm, so texting is typically more reliable than calling. Keep car chargers in every vehicle and store phones and accessories in watertight bags. Before hurricane season begins, download trusted weather and emergency-alert apps and show all family members how to use them.
Make arrangements for your pets.
Assign one family member to oversee pets. Prepare travel kennels, several days of food, bottled water, medications, and comfort items. Never leave pets behind during an evacuation. Confirm that your designated meeting place or backup location allows pets, or identify safe boarding options with family, veterinarians, or local kennels ahead of time.
Keep important documents stored safely.
Gather birth certificates, IDs, insurance policies, passports, Social Security cards, medical records, and prescription information in a waterproof folder. Consider storing digital copies in a secure, password-protected location as well. Review your homeowners insurance policy annually so you understand your coverage before a storm is on the way.
Weatherproof your home before a storm threatens.
If you live in a new Ernest home, features such as energy-efficient windows, strong framing, and modern roofing provide additional protection. Homeowners can also prepare by installing storm shutters or pre-cut plywood, removing or securing yard items, reinforcing garage doors, trimming dead or loose tree limbs, and turning off utilities before evacuating if advised by local officials.
Prepare your evacuation kit ahead of time.
Assemble food, water, medications, flashlights, first-aid supplies, clothing, chargers, and comfort items well before a storm is forecast. Use the FEMA checklist at Ready.gov/kit as a guide. Store everything in sturdy, waterproof tubs with locking lids so it can be quickly loaded into your vehicle.
Make sure your vehicle is evacuation-ready.
During hurricane season, keep your gas tank at least half full. Check tires, fluids, brakes, and battery health regularly, and keep a basic car emergency kit on hand. For a full vehicle checklist, visit Ready.gov/car.
Bring entertainment for downtime.
Evacuations often involve long waits and limited activities. Pack simple games, books, puzzles, coloring supplies, or cards to help children — and adults — stay calm and occupied while you’re away from home.
Stock more batteries than you think you’ll need.
Flashlights, small fans, radios, toys, and clocks all rely on batteries, and stores may sell out quickly before a storm. Keep a full supply of the sizes your household uses most and store them with your emergency kit.
Stay calm and follow your evacuation plan.
A clear head will help you make smart decisions in stressful moments. Take a deep breath, review your checklist, and follow your family’s plan. Preparation is the key to safety during hurricane season.
For additional homeowner resources, evacuation planning tips, or information about our new communities in coastal Georgia, visit our Ernest Homes Communities page or contact our Sales Team.
