A Retired Engineer's Guide to Hurricane Prep: What He Trusts Most

The Atlantic hurricane season officially runs from June through November. When a storm approaches, the National Weather Service may issue watches and warnings. But by then, you typically have about 48 hours to prepare. That's why it's important to plan ahead, while things are still calm.

So, what should you prepare?

Instead of listing everything under the sun, we spoke with Mike Brown, a retired engineer and Florida resident, to focus on what he considers the most essential gear for riding out a hurricane safely and comfortably.

Mike's Journey: From New England Winters to Florida Hurricanes

About four and a half years ago, Mike moved to Florida to escape harsh New England winters. But with new surroundings came new weather risks, especially hurricanes. At first, Mike relied on what he knew: a traditional propane generator, candles, regular batteries and canned food. But over the years, he's built and refined a more complete hurricane readiness system.

Here's a look at his must-have gear, things he's tested, used, and trusts.

1. Power Backup

• Battery banks
• Propane generator
• Solar panels
• Rechargeable fans

Power is essential during an outage. Mike uses a combination of battery banks to run essentials like the refrigerator, coffee maker, lights, and fans. When these batteries drain, he recharges them using either a propane generator or solar panels, depending on safety and weather conditions.

He also has two rechargeable fans with ports that can power small devices like phones and lanterns. The goal: stay off-grid for days, even weeks, if needed.

2. Water Storage

• Two 20L jerry cans
• Four 10L foldable water cubes
• Water filter

Clean water is critical, not just for drinking but for hygiene and cooking. Mike stores a supply of water in durable containers and backs it up with a water filter in case local sources become unreliable.

3. Emergency Food

• Canned goods
• Lightweight, shelf-stable meals

Mike's philosophy is simple: stock up on non-perishables you actually enjoy, rotate them regularly, and restock as needed. Don't wait until the last minute to buy food as supplies tend to run low when storms are on the horizon.

4. Emergency Radio

Mike uses a hand-crank NOAA emergency radio. It doesn't just keep him informed even when the power or internet goes down. It also doubles as a mini workout when he cranks it up!

5. ZERO BREEZE Mark 3 Portable AC

• Battery-powered and energy efficient
• 5,280 BTU cooling capacity
• Portable and multi-use
• Multiple modes

This year, Mike added the ZERO BREEZE Mark 3 Portable AC to his essential gear and named it one of his top priorities.

"During power outages, the cool air from the AC will be a big morale booster and relief from the Florida humidity and heat. Getting good sleep is important in stressful emergency situations. The cool air will help me to get the rest I need," Mike explained.

Originally purchased for camping, Mike now uses it every night to cool his bedroom and brings it on bug-out trips in his van.

6. Cassette Toilet

If plumbing becomes unavailable during or after a hurricane, a cassette toilet offers a hygienic and convenient solution. Mike repurposes the one he uses for camping trips.

A Setup Ready to Stay or Go

Many of Mike's prep items are multi-use tools that he uses while camping, at home, and in emergencies. His setup is also designed to be mobile. If a hurricane reaches Category 3 or above, he plans to evacuate in his minivan camper, equipped with battery banks, stored water, shelf-stable meals, and the ZERO BREEZE Mark 3.

Top Tip from Mike: Test It Before You Need It

When asked what advice he would give to someone new to hurricane season, Mike shared: "Check the NOAA and local emergency management advice on basic needs. Make a plan. Buy the equipment. Test it thoroughly in quiet times. Don't wait until you need it to find out how to run it. Stress tests things. Oh, and from my engineering background, read the manuals and the support offered at the websites. Educate yourself on your equipment." Simple, solid advice from someone who's spent years refining his setup.

Want to see exactly how Mike prepares? Watch his full video: Hurricane Prep 2025: Florida Survival Guide.

Plan Ahead, Stay Comfortable

Official agencies provide excellent preparation checklists, but if you're looking for a more personal, real-life perspective, Mike's approach is a great place to start.

Prepare now, not later. Learn from others. And stay safe this hurricane season.