RIVERVIEW, Fla.- Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Blaise Ingoglia urged Floridians to prepare early for the 2026 hurricane season, which starts officially on June 1 and continues through November 30. This is part of an ongoing initiative by the CFO to inform residents across the state about how to prepare for hurricane season.

Chief Financial Officer Blaise Ingoglia said, “Hurricanes can be unpredictable, and in times of uncertainty, being prepared is one of the most effective ways to keep yourself and your family safe. I want to encourage everyone, do not wait until it is too late, have a plan and an emergency kit ready to go before a storm is on the horizon.”

Hillsborough County Fire Rescue Chief Jason Dougherty said, “Being prepared isn’t just recommended; it is essential in keeping our citizens and first responders safe before, during and after a storm. Our firefighters are trained to respond to severe weather conditions, but if our citizens take necessary precautions, this can limit the strain on emergency personnel and allow us to respond to emergencies more efficiently.”

Before a storm strikes:  

• Check your home and flood insurance coverage, then compare options to make sure you have the protection you need at the best value.  
• Conduct a home inventory with photos and video of inside and outside of your home.  
• Safeguard important documents in a dry box.   
• Have cash on hand.

After the storm:

• Report damage to your agent or insurance company.
• Make emergency repairs to prevent further damage and document them.
• Beware of fraud and scams.
• Verify the license of contractors or adjusters.
• Don’t rush into signing a contract with a public adjuster, and call the Consumer Services helpline at 1-877-MY-FL-CFO to see if they can assist you first. 

Additional after the storm tips:

• Take pictures, videos, or written notes of the damage.
• Do not give your personal information without thoroughly verifying who is receiving it and for what purpose.
• Do not be in a hurry to sign any contract. Public adjusters charge a fee based on a percentage of the amount recovered from the insurance company.
• If your vehicle is flooded, do not attempt to drive even if the damage appears to be minimal like wet floor mats. Call the insurance company to file a claim and follow their instructions.
• Hire licensed and reputable service people, preferably from your community. You can check a contractor's license here
• Beware of anyone offering to help after a storm who wants cash only. 
• All legitimate contractors must carry insurance. Ask for proof of Liability and Workers’ Compensation coverage.
• Keep a log of the communication you exchange with the insurance company adjuster(s). 

Call the Consumer Services Helpline at 1-877-MY-FL-CFO (1-877-693-5236) for insurance questions and assistance.