Hurricane season has officially begun, and with it comes the annual threat to millions of homeowners. The newly released Hurricane Survival Guide, authored by former Air Force meteorologist Bill Combes, provides a comprehensive 175-page resource aimed at helping families protect their homes and finances before, during, and after a storm.
Unlike typical storm guides that end when the weather clears, this guide addresses the critical recovery phase where many families incur the greatest losses. Combes, who spent years tracking dangerous weather and later developed storm-mapping software used by thousands of roofing companies, offers insider knowledge on avoiding contractor scams and navigating insurance claims. “Most guides stop the day the storm passes. That's exactly when families lose the most money,” Combes said. “If you prepare the right way before the storm, you protect your home and your wallet for months afterward.”
The guide is divided into three phases. Before the storm, it covers simple but effective plans, home protection steps, and supply lists that go beyond basic kits, including how to document everything properly. During the storm, it provides safety protocols, communication strategies when power fails, and instructions for taking phone photos that can support insurance claims. After the storm, it details how to return home safely, spot hidden damage, manage contractors, and handle insurance claims—a playbook many homeowners lack.
State officials echo the need for early preparation. Florida Chief Financial Officer and State Fire Marshal Blaise Ingoglia emphasized during the state's 2026 preparedness push: “The more prepared we are upfront, the better off we'll be on the back end, and the less it will cost on the back end. We cannot sit back and hope. We have to prepare.”
The guide is available as an instant digital download at thehurricanesurvivalguide.com, allowing readers to implement strategies immediately. Even a single tip—such as taking a photo the right way or turning away a bad contractor—can save thousands of dollars. Combes also offers a Hurricane Survival Quiz that provides a personalized report. “Act now before any warnings are issued. By the time a storm has a name, store shelves are empty and contractors are booked,” Combes warned.
