CLEARWATER – With forecasters predicting an above-average 2025 hurricane season, the Better Business Bureaus serving Florida (BBB) is urging Floridians to begin preparations now. The best way to protect your family, property, and peace of mind during Florida’s hurricane season is to stay informed and be proactive.

To help residents prepare, BBB has released its 2025 Florida Hurricane Guide, a free resource for consumers, businesses, and nonprofits. The guide includes essential tips on disaster preparedness, recovery and repair, avoiding storm chaser scams, accessing trusted government resources, and donating wisely to disaster relief efforts.

“Every year, we see unlicensed contractors flood disaster areas, hoping to profit off uncertainty,” said Karen Nalven, President/CEO of BBB Serving West Florida. “The best protection is preparation—start with trust and only hire licensed, reputable professionals.”

BBB recommends these five key steps to prepare for hurricane season:

• Create an emergency plan – Determine where your car can be stored, Identify evacuation routes, a family meeting point, and important emergency contacts.
• Stock up on supplies – Keep at least a three-day supply of food, water, medications, and essential items like flashlights and weather radio.
• Secure your home – Reinforce windows, doors, and roofs; secure or bring in outdoor items.

• Stay informed – Sign up for local alerts and monitor official weather updates.
• Pre-select licensed contractors – Research and save contacts for reputable, licensed professionals now—before a storm hits.

After a storm, remember: only licensed professionals should perform repair work. Hiring unlicensed workers may lead to poor results, financial loss, or legal issues.

Avoid post-storm scams with these tips:

• Be cautious of unsolicited offers and door-to-door sales.
• Don’t fall for “too good to be true” deals.
• Always ask for proof of licensing and insurance.

• Start your search with BBB Accredited Businesses at BBB.org.

Verify businesses and professional licenses here:

BBB.org – Trusted profiles and business ratings, call 727-535-5522.
MyFloridaLicense.com, call 850-487-1395, or use the free DBPR mobile app.

Hurricane season runs from June 1 through November 30. Don’t wait—prepare today to protect what matters most.