HURRICANE PREPAREDNESS

Hurricane Preparedness

Hurricane Living on Casey Key offers an exceptional coastal lifestyle, but it also requires being prepared for hurricane season. Advanced planning helps protect your family, your home, and our community.

The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 through November 30, and every Casey Key resident should have a preparedness plan in place before a storm threatens.

Before the Storm

Stay Informed

  • 2026 Sarasota County Hurricane Preparedness
  • Monitor forecasts from the National Hurricane Center and local emergency management officials.
  • Register for Sarasota County emergency alerts.
  • Follow official evacuation orders if issued.

Prepare Your Home

  • Install or secure hurricane shutters.
  • Bring in outdoor furniture, grills, umbrellas, and decorative items.
  • Trim trees and remove loose branches.
  • Secure boats, kayaks, and paddleboards.
  • Clear gutters and drains to improve water flow.
  • Photograph your home and valuables for insurance documentation.

Assemble an Emergency Kit

Your hurricane kit should include enough supplies for at least seven days:

  • Drinking water (one gallon per person per day)
  • Non-perishable food
  • Prescription medications
  • First aid supplies
  • Flashlights and extra batteries
  • Battery-powered or hand-crank weather radio
  • Portable phone chargers and backup batteries
  • Cash
  • Important documents stored in a waterproof container
  • Pet food and supplies

Review Insurance

Before hurricane season:

  • Review your homeowners, flood, and windstorm insurance coverage.
  • Understand deductibles and coverage limits.
  • Store policy information electronically and in waterproof containers.

Evacuation Planning

Casey Key is a barrier island and may be subject to mandatory evacuation orders during significant storm events.

Residents should:

  • Know their evacuation zone.
  • Plan multiple evacuation routes.
  • Arrange accommodations well in advance.
  • Keep vehicles fueled during hurricane season.
  • Plan for pets, including pet-friendly shelters or hotels.

Never remain on the island if local officials issue a mandatory evacuation order.

After the Storm

When returning:

  • Wait until authorities declare the island safe.
  • Watch for downed power lines, flooding, unstable trees, and damaged structures.
  • Document all damage with photographs before beginning cleanup.
  • Contact your insurance carrier as soon as possible.
  • Use caution around floodwaters, which may contain debris or contaminants.

Community Resources

The Casey Key Association works closely with Sarasota County and local agencies to keep residents informed before, during, and after major storm events. Members receive timely updates regarding road access, bridge conditions, recovery efforts, and other important community information.

Helpful Resources

  • National Hurricane Center
  • Sarasota County Emergency Management
  • Florida Division of Emergency Management
  • Florida Power & Light (FPL)
  • Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office

Preparedness is the best protection. By planning ahead and staying informed, we can help keep Casey Key a resilient and safe community throughout hurricane season.