Hurricane Season 2018: Are You Prepared?

Hurricane Season 2018: Are You Prepared?

Saying the word “hurricane” after last year’s storm season sends shudders through a room if spoken, but like it or not, it’s that time of year again. Time to start preparing ourselves for another hurricane season. Insurance companies in the state of Florida have been busy working on hurricane preparation and improving their claims handling practices from last year to make sure they are ready to take care of their customers if a hurricane happens to strike again. Are you ready? Here are some tips to make sure you’re ready to weather any storm!

• Review your insurance policies- Take a look at your policies and make sure you know what’s covered (or not covered) and what your hurricane deductible is. It’s also important to make sure you notify your agent of any changes that might have happened such as paying off a mortgage or lienholder, change of mailing address, or changes in named insureds. Making sure this information is up to date can help with the claims process, should you need to file a claim, in the event that any type of payment needs to be issued to you.
• Build a Basic Supply Kit- Put together a supply kit with things you might need during a storm if you were to lose power. Things to include should be:
  • Water- one gallon per person per day for at least 3 days
  • Food- a three days’ supply of food that is non-perishable
  • Flashlight
  • Batteries
  • First aid kit
  • Garbage bags
  • Manual can opener
  • Local maps
  • Cell phone chargers/backup batteries
  • Matches
  • Copies of insurance policies

Your Hurricane Preparation Supply Kit can also have different things based on your family’s needs such as prescription medications, over the counter medications, baby supplies (diapers, wipes, formula), pet food, etc.

• Be Aware of Evacuation Routes- make sure you know the local evacuation routes and shelters in the area if you are ordered to evacuate your home or county.
• Secure Your Home– hurricane force winds can knock down tree branches and send other debris flying, causing additional damage. Make sure to trim or remove damaged tree limbs and secure all loose items in your yard, such as trash cans, yard equipment, or toys.

With only a few weeks left before the new hurricane season, make sure you have a hurricane preparation plan in place if a storm decides to head our way. If you’d like to review your insurance policies, give us a call to speak to your licensed customer service representative at 863-683-2228.