Make your storm plan before you are away.

Use the correct local information

Florida’s emergency-management guidance directs residents to know their evacuation zone and property risks. Follow current local instructions; a Home Watch plan does not replace an evacuation order.

Arrange preparation ahead of time

List the tasks you want performed and confirm who is responsible. Shutters, specialist work, heavy outdoor items and multi-person tasks may need a separate provider or quote.

• Identify the authorized preparation tasks and limits.
• Confirm association rules and vendor access.
• Store useful contacts and baseline property photos.
• Set a backup contact if you cannot be reached.

Plan for access delays

An inspection cannot proceed while roads, conditions or the property are unsafe. A scheduled or priority request does not guarantee an immediate arrival after a storm.

Lantern’s agreed post-storm role is to document visible conditions, send findings and contact you about concerns once access is safe. Repairs and emergency response remain with the appropriate providers.

Keep county guidance within reach

For Charlotte County properties, use the county’s evacuation-zone lookup and current emergency guidance. The county cautions against making evacuation decisions from storm category alone.

For Flagler County properties, ALERTFlagler offers address-based emergency notifications through selected contact methods. Check your settings before leaving.

Keep a record of the response

Save before-and-after photographs, visit reports, messages, authorized work and receipts. Share relevant information with your insurer and follow its claim instructions.

Decide on preparation and follow-up separately. A routine visit plan does not automatically reserve storm services.