Hurricane Preparation

The best time to prepare for hurricane season is before it begins on June 1. These severe storms may include powerful winds, heavy rain, hail and flooding, which could result in significant bodily harm and property damage. Fortunately, you can implement several steps to protect yourself, your family and your property.

Hurricane Preparation Steps

Leading up to hurricane season and throughout its duration, there are several precautions that you should strongly consider, such as the following:

1. Compose evacuation plans. Create plans for how you plan to exit the area and where you will go afterward. Designate one person in your household to coordinate communication in case you are separated.

2. Prepare supplies. Prepare an emergency kit that includes non-perishable food, at least three gallons of water for each person and pet in your group, flashlights, extra batteries, a first-aid kit and other medical supplies, such as prescriptions.

3. Protect your home. Although you may be forced to abandon your home if a hurricane is imminent, there are still things you can do to protect it:

a. Clear your yard of clutter or other items that could blow around and cause damage.
b. Cover windows and doors with storm shutters or plywood.
c. Turn off your water and power if forced to evacuate.

4. Consider your vehicle. Park your vehicle in a safe area away from trees, utility poles or other objects that could fall on it. Make sure your fuel tank is full so you can avoid gas station crowds and make a hasty escape.

5. Understand terminology. While monitoring the forecast, you must be educated regarding hurricane-related language, such as the following:

a. Tropical storm—These weather systems have sustained winds between 39 and 73 mph.
b. Hurricane—These storms have sustained winds above 74 mph.
c. Storm surge—This term refers to rising water moving inland that could create life-threatening conditions.
d. Watch—When applied to the three terms above, this refers to such conditions being possible within the next 48 hours.
e. Warning—This term means that conditions for a tropical storm, hurricane or storm surge are expected within the next 36 hours.

6. Stay informed. Monitor the forecast for expected weather conditions. Be sure to obey all evacuation orders from local authorities. Consider acquiring a battery-powered radio to help you remain informed if your power goes out.

7. Print important documents. Acquire hard copies of key documents, including emergency phone numbers, insurance cards and driver’s licenses or IDs, and store them in a waterproof container.

8. Consider your insurance. Speak with an insurance provider to ensure that you have adequate coverage. Standard homeowners policies may not include protection for hurricane- or flood-related losses. Take inventory of your possessions, including photos and videos. Such evidence will help you recoup losses if your possessions are damaged.

Stay Safe and Protect Your Property

Hurricanes are among the most dangerous natural disasters. Given the threat they present to personal safety and property damage, failing to take these weather events seriously can have devastating ramifications. That being said, even those who implement suitable precautions and make proper preparations could still face significant losses and damages.
Fortunately, the agents at Svendsen Insurance have the expertise and dedication to help people in Connecticut to protect themselves and their property by acquiring optimal coverage.

Give us a call today to ask about Flood Insurance.