When it comes to hurricane prep, bad advice can be just as dangerous as no advice at all. Every year, myths about storm safety circulate on social media and by word of mouth – some even sounding reasonable at first. But following the wrong tips could put your home, family, and finances at serious risk. Let’s clear up the confusion so you can prepare with confidence.
Here are 12 hurricane safety myths every Florida homeowner should know:
Will tape or window film protect my windows during a hurricane?
Myth #1: Taping your windows will keep them from shattering.
Reality: Tape may keep shattered glass in bigger pieces, but it won’t stop the window from breaking or keep wind and rain out. Worse, taped windows can break into larger, more dangerous shards. The only proven way to protect windows is with impact-resistant shutters, storm panels, or hurricane-rated glass.
Key Takeaways:
- Tape doesn’t prevent breakage or water intrusion.
- Use code approved shutters, panels, or hurricane-rated windows for real protection.
Will cracking a window equalize pressure and protect my home?
Myth #2: Letting in outside air during a hurricane can reduce damage.
Reality: Cracking a window can actually make things worse. Wind pressure entering your home can lead to internal pressurization – putting upward force on the roof and increasing the risk of structural failure. All doors and windows should remain sealed during the storm.
Key Takeaways:
- Keep all windows and doors tightly closed.
- Prevent wind from entering and destabilizing your home.
- Reinforce garage doors and other large openings to reduce pressure buildup.
Do I only need to protect windows and doors facing the ocean?
Myth #3: Only ocean-facing sides of the home need storm protection.
Reality: Hurricanes don’t follow a straight path, and winds can shift directions without warning. Every window and door should be secured – no matter which way your home faces. Leaving one side unprotected puts the entire structure at risk.
Key Takeaways:
- Cover all windows and doors.
- Don’t assume wind will only hit from one direction.
Are candles safe to use if the power goes out?
Myth #4: Candles are a safe, easy source of light during and after a hurricane.
Reality: Never use candles during a hurricane. Open flames can easily ignite household items, especially if windows are broken and wind is blowing through. Firefighters may not be able to respond during the storm. Use battery-powered flashlights or lanterns instead.
Key Takeaways:
- Use only solar- or battery-powered lights indoors.
- Avoid open flames due to high fire risk and limited emergency response.
Are we safe once the hurricane passes?
Myth #5: The danger is over once the storm ends.
Reality: Even after the winds die down, serious risks remain — including flooding, contaminated water, downed power lines, and hidden structural damage. Some of the most life-threatening conditions, like flash floods and tornadoes, can occur after the main storm has passed.
Key Takeaways:
- Stay alert for post-storm risks.
- Have enough supplies to last up to a month.
- Don’t return home or venture out until authorities say it’s safe.
Is water stored in my bathtub or sink safe to drink?
Myth #6: Any stored water is safe for drinking.
Reality: Bath and sink water may contain lead or other contaminants from plumbing fixtures. It’s fine for flushing toilets or washing up, but not for drinking. Use sealed, food-grade containers for drinking water.
Key Takeaways:
- Don’t drink water stored in bathtubs or sinks.
- Store potable water in clean, sealed containers.
Is it safe to go outside during the eye of the storm?
Myth #7: The eye of the storm is a safe break.
Reality: The eye of a hurricane can feel eerily calm, but it’s a temporary pause. Within minutes, hurricane-force winds can return from the opposite direction – often with greater speed and force. Flying debris, downed power lines, and sudden wind shifts make stepping outside extremely dangerous.
Key Takeaways:
- Stay inside until local officials declare it safe.
- Avoid injury from flying debris or unexpected wind shifts.
Do I need flood insurance if I’m not in a flood zone?
Myth #8: Flood insurance is only for high-risk areas.
Reality: More than 20% of flood insurance claims come from homes outside high-risk flood zones. In Florida, heavy rains and storm surge can impact inland areas, too. Standard homeowners insurance doesn’t cover flood damage, no matter where you live.
Key Takeaways:
- Flooding can happen anywhere.
- Consider a separate flood insurance policy for full protection.
- One major storm could cost you more than years of premiums.
Is wind the main threat during a hurricane?
Myth #9: The wind is the most dangerous part of a hurricane.
Reality: While wind can cause serious damage, most hurricane-related deaths and costly destruction come from water – including storm surge, flash floods, and inland flooding. Even a Category 1 hurricane can push several feet of water into homes. Water is harder to escape and often more destructive than wind.
Key Takeaways:
- Don’t underestimate water-related hazards.
- Heed evacuation orders, especially for storm surge.
- Protect your home with both wind and flood coverage.
Do I need extra coverage for hurricanes in Florida?
Myth #10: Your homeowners policy covers everything when a hurricane hits.
Reality: Most Florida homeowners policies include a separate hurricane deductible – often 2%–5% of your dwelling coverage – which could mean paying thousands out of pocket before coverage kicks in. Even more importantly, flood damage from storm surge isn’t covered unless you’ve purchased a separate flood policy through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or a private insurer.
Key Takeaways:
- Check your hurricane deductible – it’s usually higher than your standard (all-other-perils) one.
- Add separate flood insurance to protect against storm surge and rising water.
- Review your policy now – long before the first storm is on the way.
How common are tornadoes during a hurricane in Florida?
Myth #11: Tornadoes aren’t a big threat during hurricanes in Florida.
Reality: Tornadoes are actually very common during hurricanes – especially in the outer bands and after landfall. These fast-moving storms can touch down with little warning and cause major damage, even far from the eye of the storm. Florida's flat terrain and high humidity make it especially prone to hurricane-spawned tornadoes.
Key Takeaways:
- Monitor tornado alerts during and after the storm.
- Shelter in a windowless interior room if a tornado warning is issued.
- Stay alert even if you’re not in the direct path of the hurricane.
Can I trust viral hurricane tips I see online?
Myth #12: All social media advice about hurricane prep is reliable.
Reality: While platforms like ours share tips backed by insurance and emergency response experts, viral posts or crowdsourced content can spread misinformation. Always verify hurricane safety advice with trusted sources like the National Hurricane Center, your insurer, or local officials.
Key Takeaways:
- Follow reputable sources (like us!) for safety tips.
- Don’t rely solely on viral posts or internet rumors.
- Bookmark official weather and emergency alert pages in advance.
How to Stay Informed & Protected During Hurricanes in Florida
It only takes one bad storm to cause life-changing damage. By separating fact from fiction, you can make smarter decisions and reduce your risk.
Want more storm prep guidance, including supply checklists, evacuation tips, and insurance must-knows? Flip through our Hurricane Preparedness Guide now to stay safe, stay smart, and always be storm-ready.
To update the coverage in your existing homeowners policy or to explore your flood insurance options, contact your agent today.
Not yet insured by Florida Peninsula Insurance Company? Get a quote online now.
