How to Prepare for a Hurricane: Securing Pets in Small Apartments When You Can’t Board Up Windows

Summary

Safety first

• Stop and relocate to another room if you notice windows cracking or leaking water.
• Do not attempt to cover windows from the outside or break building rules—personal safety first.
• Monitor indoor air quality—avoid lighting candles or using gas appliances in confined spaces.
• Check pets often for injury or signs of distress during the storm.
• Keep an emergency exit route clear but do not leave until conditions are confirmed safe by authorities.

Tools you’ll need

• Duct tape or painter’s tape
• Heavy blankets
• Pet carrier/crate
• Flashlight
• Batteries
• Scissors
• Smartphone or battery-powered radio

Materials

• Pet food and water (3-day supply)
• Litter box and liners (cats)
• Favorite toys/comfort items
• Medical records in waterproof bag
• Puppy pads or newspapers
• First aid kit (with pet-specific items)
• Portable charger

Step-by-step

• Move all pets into a windowless or interior room (bathroom, hallway, closet) before the storm starts.
• Clear the safe room of any harmful objects your pet could access or knock over.
• Secure balcony doors and windows from the inside with duct tape and heavy blankets to reduce shattering risk and noise.
• Set up each pet in its own carrier or crate, with familiar bedding and toys to reduce anxiety.
• Stock the safe room with pet essentials: food, water, medications, and litter supplies.
• Provide battery-powered lighting and keep your phone/charger close for updates.
• Monitor your pet’s stress and comfort level; use a leash for dogs when taking bathroom breaks indoors.
• Remain inside your safe room until officials declare conditions safe.

Troubleshooting

• If pets panic, cover carriers with blankets for darkness and calm.
• If a window breaks, immediately move all pets and people to a different, windowless room.
• If you run out of pet supplies, use improvised solutions (e.g., towels for bedding, bowls for water).
• If you lose cell signal, switch to battery-powered radio for emergency updates.
• If your pet shows signs of acute distress (excessive panting, vomiting, injury), keep them contained and seek help as soon as emergency responders are available.

Common mistakes

• Leaving pets in rooms with unsecured or uncovered windows.
• Underestimating the amount of food, water, or litter needed for 2+ days.
• Allowing pets to roam freely in the apartment during high winds.
• Forgetting backup batteries or lighting during anticipated power outages.
• Neglecting to gather important documents and medications in advance.

When to call a pro

• If you discover structural damage to your apartment that compromises safety.
• If your pet sustains serious injuries or displays severe illness symptoms.
• If you are instructed by authorities to evacuate but need assistance moving pets.
• If you cannot secure windows from the inside due to broken locks or frames.

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