June has arrived, bringing with it the official start of the 2020 Hurricane Season. Over the past few years, we have unfortunately seen the devastating destruction and millions in damages one storm can cause. As such, it is important you take the proper steps to prepare before a storm is on the horizon. Please take these tips into consideration to reduce your risk of harm, property damage, and accelerate the recovery process should the unexpected occur.
Supplies: When a hurricane strikes, you will not have access to many of the things you will need to survive, or the freedom to go out and buy them. While under the threat of a hurricane, people will follow the same thought process and search for common items. It is best to gather your hurricane supplies months before the season arrives. Here is a basic list of things you will need. Apart from this list, you should consider additional items such as toys for your children and games the entire family can enjoy and help the time go by.
Evacuation Plan: Your hurricane supplies should be packed in backpacks in case your family is instructed to evacuate. This way, everyone can help carry the load. You should have a satellite radio on hand in case there is no electricity to stay informed of the latest evacuation instructions and updated on the status of the storm. Be sure to have a list of medications, a good supply of cash, and anything else you may need. Having a family discussion ahead of time will help keep everyone calm, especially younger children. Remind everyone to stick together, and if separated, establish a designated meeting spot, and above all know your emergency contacts.
Don’t forget about your four-legged family members. Your pets should always be included in your emergency plans. Be sure to prepare a travel kit and emergency supplies for them, just as you would for yourself and your children.
Important Documents: All documents such as passports, driver’s licenses, citizenship documents, birth/adoption certificates, insurance policies, etc. should be kept in an airtight, waterproof container, or storage bin. You should also make a habit of scanning these documents and keep an electronic version in case they are ever to be misplaced during the chaos. Along with your documents, you should also keep an updated inventory of personal items, especially the ones which hold the most value.
Preparing Your Home: Now is the time to prepare your home for a hurricane or tropical storm. Conduct a home inspection and repair areas of your home which could be prone to hurricane damage. Don’t forget about the outside of your home and property. Take the time to clear objects from your yard, trim trees, and shrubs, remove clutter from your gutters and drains, and secure fences and other large items in your yard.
Use Your Resources: One of the most important things to know before, during, and after a hurricane, are your resources. These websites and numbers below should be posted in several areas of your home for easy access. These resources are always available to you and are extremely beneficial in the case of an emergency.
Insurance Coverage: Now is the best time to give your agent a call to review your policy and insurance coverages to be sure you are completely covered if disaster strikes. It is important to remember, flood coverage is not included within your standard homeowners insurance policy. You will want to secure flood coverage with Florida Peninsula Insurance Company, or by contacting your agent as soon as possible. The last thing you want to worry about is how you will replace your home and valuables if they are destroyed. You can rest assured; Florida Peninsula Insurance Company knows the importance of keeping your family and home safe and protected.
We hope you take these tips into consideration to ensure the safety of you, your family, and your home this Hurricane Season. Should catastrophe strike, Florida Peninsula stands ready to assist you. In the event you need to file a claim, you may do so online, or by calling 866-549-9672. For more preparation tips, visit the Tools & Tips section on our website.
