How do I best prepare for a hurricane?

I’m getting anxious about hurricane season as I have never been through one before. I live on the 1st floor of an apartment, and I’m not in a flood zone.

How do I prepare for this?? I bought flood insurance, but it won’t kick in until a few more weeks. I’m still worried about losing my valuables.

Edit: What happens if you’re boarding pets when a hurricane comes??