During hurricane season, It can be a nerve-racking time for anyone because they are not at ease. What if the hurricane is forecasted to hit your area? When a home is hit badly with a hurricane, it can leave you homeless, vulnerable and it can shatter lives as well as damage your property. Hurricane can’t be avoided but being prepared can help you and your family to minimize its impact. You don’t need to wait for a hurricane warning to be issued before you take certain precautions.
Being prepared is essential when it comes to dealing with the physical challenges of hurricane not to mention, property damages. Here’s how to prepare yourself for hurricane season and get away with it with less stress.
Plan your evacuation
If you live near the coast, you might be required to evacuate your home. Do not wait for the last minute and make an evacuation plan as soon as possible so you will know where to find shelter, in case you need to leave your home. Always get the latest updates from your local radio and TV or the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio. If you have pets at home, find a safe place for them ahead of time. If you want to bring your furry family members with you on your evacuation place, contact the place you want to stay if they can also accommodate your pets.
Prepare nonperishable supplies on hand
Prepare things like candles, lamps, matches, first aid kids, food that you don’t have to cook and prescription drugs. Make them ready and bring them along with you just in case. Make sure to prepare at least 3 days’ supplies of food and drinks. Consider foods that you will no longer need to cook or refrigerate just in case power supply will be cut out.
Check your home
Make sure your home meets the necessary building codes. Check your windows if they are ready to withstand a hurricane. Cut branches and trees that could fall on your house. It might be best to install storm shutters on your windows. You might consider replacing your landscaping materials with shredded bark of trees since these are lighter compared to rocks and gravels; thus, it won’t cause as much damage.
Keep enough cash and fill up your gas tank
It is always ideal to keep cash on hand at all times so you will have something to use during emergency situations. The same thing goes with your car tank. You can’t be sure that gas stations and ATM machines will be accessible during a state of emergency.
Review your insurance coverage
Review your home insurance if it covers hurricane-related emergencies. Most home insurance policies cover your home for damages caused by natural disasters like hurricanes and storms. Check the policy limit and see if it can cover rebuilding your home should the need arise. See also if it covers flood damage especially if you live near the coast.
Being prepared can help you and your family in times of needs and emergencies especially during hurricane season. However, if you do encounter water damage from any weather-related issues, contact Water Damage America for any water restoration needs for a free quote.
