Hurricane Information
Weathering A Hurricane
Hurricanes are not strangers to Floridians. Knowing what to do can make the difference when it comes to protecting yourself and your home.
Before Hurricane Season Begins
- Plan an escape route.
- Have a stockpile of emergency supplies on hand (drinking water, canned goods, non-perishable foods, manual can opener, flashlights, batteries, candles, first aid kit, essential medications, matches in waterproof containers, portable radio, etc.)
- Develop an emergency communication plan in case you’re separated from loved ones.
- Hurricane shutters are your best protection. If you do not have them, you can use marine plywood panels cut to fit your windows. Pre-drill holes every 18 inches for screws and mark which board fits which window.
- Keep trees free of weak or dead branches.
- Have a video or photographic inventory of your possessions stored in a safe place away from your home. If your home’s damaged it will be invaluable in settling the claim.
- Review your homeowners insurance to ensure it is adequate. Remember, flooding is generally not covered by a homeowners policy. So if you do not have flood insurance, you may want to talk to your agent.
During A Hurricane Watch And Warning
- Pay close attention to progress reports.
- Protect windows.
- Check emergency supplies, make sure you have a full tank of gas in your car and review your evacuation plan.
- Bring outdoor furniture, etc. inside. Anchor items that can not be brought in.
- Set your freezer and refrigerator at the highest setting in case you lose power. (If power is lost, turn off major appliances to avoid power surge.)
- If you are in a surge zone, elevate your furniture to protect it.
- Store valuables and papers in a watertight container at the highest level of your home.
- If evacuation is necessary, unplug appliances, turn off electricity and the main water valve and leave as quickly as possible.
After The Hurricane
- If you evacuated, return home only after authorities say that it is safe. Stay away from flooded roads and washed-out bridges.
- Avoid dangling power lines and report them immediately to the power company, police or fire department.
- Enter your home cautiously. Sometimes snakes, insects and animals are driven to higher ground by flood water.
- Open windows and doors to ventilate and dry your home.
- If your home has been damaged, check for gas leaks (open a window, leave and call the gas company if you find one), obvious electrical problems and sewer and water line damage.
- Take pictures of the damage – inside and out. You will need it for your insurance company.