This week (May 1-7) is National Hurricane Preparedness Week, encouraging everyone to evaluate their personal hurricane risks and take measures to keep themselves, their families and their homes protected during a hurricane.
Hurricanes have become an increasingly serious concern throughout the East Coast. In fact, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) reported 21 named storms during the 2021 hurricane season, the third-highest number of storms in history, costing nearly $70 billion in damages. Additionally, weather experts expect more of the same in 2022, with 16-20 named storms predicted. This includes up to 8 eight hurricanes, half of which could be labeled major hurricanes with Category 3 strength winds. Between four and six of these hurricanes are expected to make an impact on the United States.
As hurricane season approaches, prepare yourself and your household with these tips.
Before the Storm
- Review your community’s risk level. The location of your home can determine potential wind and flood hazards.
- Register for email updates from the National Weather Service and any available local alert systems to be aware of hurricane warnings or evacuation orders in your area.
- Develop a response plan and practice it regularly with all members of your household.
- Make sure your car has enough gas in the event you and your family have to evacuate.
- Prepare a hurricane kit with:
- nonperishable food
- water
- flashlights
- medicine, any necessary prescriptions and a first aid kit
- emergency power sources such as batteries and power banks and the appropriate cords to charge handheld devices
- important documents
- Limit your home’s hurricane exposures by keeping drains and gutters clean, installing storm shutters on windows and doors, and storing vehicles in a safe place.
- Review your coverage with your FBinsure agent to ensure you’re protected in the event of a hurricane or flood.
After a Hurricane
- If you evacuated your home, don’t return until local officials confirm it’s safe to do so.
- When returning home, wear protective clothing and stay away from pools of floodwater, wet or damaged electrical equipment, and downed power lines.
- Try to stay as far away from coastlines as possible. Storm surges are, historically, the leading cause of death during hurricanes, and can travel several miles inland.
- Take pictures of all property damage and save receipts for any recovery expenses you may have from the hurricane to help file an insurance claim.
For more homeowner’s insurance solutions or to speak with your FBinsure agent about your policy to ensure you’re covered properly, give us a call today. Be sure to follow our social media pages for more helpful homeowner’s tips and blog updates.
