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Are you ready?

This time of year, our thoughts turn to the tropics and what might be brewing there. What does storm season hold for us? It’s hard to predict. That’s why it is best to prepare well ahead of time. While
things are calm, take a moment to evaluate your hurricane plans.

Remember that hurricanes are not just a coastal problem. Their impacts can be felt for hundreds of miles inland. The United States hasn’t been directly impacted by a major hurricane in more than a decade, but we need to remember that significant impacts can occur without it being a major hurricane. 65246001

It’s very important that you have a hurricane evacuation plan. The first thing you should figure out is if you live in a storm surge hurricane evacuation zone or if you’re in a home that would be unsafe during a
hurricane. If you are, figure out where you’d go and how you’d get there if told to evacuate. You don’t have to travel hundreds of miles. Identify someone – a friend or relative who doesn’t live in an evacuation zone or unsafe home, and coordinate with them to use their home as your evacuation destination. Be sure to account for your pets, as most local shelters do not permit them. Put the plan in writing for you and those you care about.

Assemble your disaster supplies. Get them before hurricane season begins. Have enough food and water for each person in your family for at least one week. Be sure to fill all of your prescriptions and have medications on hand. Radios, batteries and phone chargers are also must haves. Gas up your vehicle and keep extra cash handy. 77353005

It’s also a good idea to call your insurance company or agent to ask for an insurance checkup to make sure you have enough homeowners insurance to repair or even replace your home. Don’t forget coverage for your car or boat. Remember, standard homeowners insurance doesn’t cover flooding –whether you are a homeowner or renter, you will need a separate policy for flooding. It is available through your company or agent. Act now: flood insurance requires a 30-day waiting period. 

You may also want to strengthen your home. There is actually a lot you can do around your home to help protect it from the strong winds that come with hurricanes. For example, trimming trees on your property now, before the storm forms, is a great idea. You should also shop for approved window coverings and collect all loose outdoor items before the storm heads inland. Securing all doors and finding a safe location for your vehicle should also be top priorities.

Help your neighbors. Many people rely on the assistance of neighbors before and after hurricanes. Help them collect the supplies they’ll need before the storm. Assist them with evacuation and check on them after it is safe to head outside.

The time to prepare for hurricane season is before it begins or before storms start forming. If you wait until a hurricane is on your doorstep, odds are you will be in a hurry and make wrong decisions. Take the time
while you can, to write down your hurricane plan and know where you will ride out the storm. Get your supplies ready now – you don’t want to be standing in long lines when a Hurricane Watch is issued. The supplies you need may even be sold out by the time you reach the front of the line. Being prepared, before a storm threatens, makes you more resilient to the hurricane impacts of wind and water. It could mean the difference between your being a hurricane victim and a hurricane survivor.