Last year millions of people dealt with the effects of Hurricane Florence. Not only were lives lost but it was estimated that $24 billion of wind and water damage were caused by Hurricane Florence. Scientists have predicted that there will be 14 named storms, six hurricanes, and two major hurricanes this year.
With hurricane season right around the corner, it’s crucial to take the initiative to ensure that you’re protected against the costly effects that may arise. The following tips can help keep your family safe during this hurricane season.
- Have an Evacuation Plan. If your area is ordered to evacuate, you leave early to avoid traffic. Devise a plan. Ask yourself, how will you communicate during the storm? Where will you meet if you are separated from your family? Which route will you take? Does your local shelter accept all pets? Will any of your neighbors need help? These are all things to consider when developing your emergency preparedness plan. Share the plan digitally so everyone has access to it while they are on the move.
- Keep Storm Supplies Stocked Year-Round. Do not wait until the last minute to grab water, flashlights, batteries, first aid kits, and nonperishable food. Instead, create a supply to keep in stock year-round along with a two-week supply of water. Each person and pet(s) need at least one gallon of water per day. Keep more water in stock for pregnant women or anyone who is ill. Take note of expiration dates on store-bought water. Replace non-store-bought water in supply every six months.
- Make Sure Your Home is in Tip Top Shape. Look for roof leaks or structural flaws that may become more severe or compromised. Before a storm, clean your gutters and drains, board up your windows and place sandbags at entry points of your home.
- Check Your Flood Insurance Coverage. Your home can flood regardless of where you live. Before Hurricane Irma, Florida residents called their insurance companies to add flood coverage to their policies, only to learn that it can take up to 30 days for it to go into effect. Add protection early and check your home’s risk of flooding by entering your address at www.floodsmart.gov.
- Make Copies of Important Documents. Store print copies in waterproof containers or create password-protected digital copies of important documents. Take pictures of your valuables along with their serial numbers and upload those as well. You may need these files when submitting claims to prove ownership of your house, car, boat, computer and other valuables.
- Gather Prescription Medicine. Have plenty of prescription medicine on-hand. Some pharmacies will remain closed for weeks after a hurricane. Also, check on elderly or ill neighbors to verify they have an adequate supply of medication.
- Know Where to Find Storm Information. It’s important to know whom to contact in the event if something happens. Although your address may be listed in one area, you might actually be under another county’s jurisdiction. To find out, enter your address at your Counties Property Appraiser website. This will help you determine.
To learn more and make sure you’re properly coverage, visit AssuredPartners Personal Insurance.
Source: iii.org
