Prepare for a hurricane (Ian)

10 Hurricane Prep Tips

As of Tuesday, September 27, 2022, Hurricane Ian is headed towards the eastern coast of Florida. The trajectory has the hurricane moving across NE across Florida into Georgia then the Carolinas.

Our hopes are the storm loses strength in the coming hours and prayers are with our fellow Americans in Ian’s path.

INSURANCE

Once a hurricane is on track for landfall, most carriers suspend binding. This means insurance carriers do not allow for changes, upgrades, additions or adding of new policies. Flood policies have a 30 day waiting period unless you purchase at the time of purchasing your home.

Review your current insurance coverages and understand your deductibles. Identify potential contractors in the area should you need any repair from hurricane damage.

Here are 10 hurricane and storm preparation steps to keep your home and loved ones safe before disaster strikes.

  • Make a plan
    If evacuation is necessary, turn off all utilities and follow community disaster preparedness plans. Select a common meeting place or single point-of-contact for all family members. If you have pets, have a plan for their evacuation as well.
     
  • Secure the exterior
    Trim large trees and shrubs and bring all outside patio furniture, potted plants, bikes and toys indoors. If necessary, secure outdoor furniture with a tie down. You may want to invest in a large tarp that could cover your roof in the case of delayed repairs.
     
  • Install storm shutters
    Protect windows, doors and skylights with appropriate shutters or impact-resistant glass. You can nail pieces of plywood to window frames as last-minute protection.
     
  • Secure valuables
    Make sure all of your valuables (guns, jewelry, anything of importance) are secure or readily available should you need to leave.
     
  • Move your cars
    Move cars to higher ground or park them in your garage against the garage doors. Do not park under trees, power lines or in low-lying areas.
  • Power up
    Fill your car’s gas tank, charge your cell phone, test your generator and have plenty of fuel ready in case of power outages.
  • Water
    Always a great idea to have water should you loose tap water. Bottle water for drinking, cooking and hygiene.
  • Store important documents
    Keep important documents, such as legal papers, birth certificates, marriage license, financial papers and insurance policy information, as well as valuables such as jewelry, in a safety deposit box or in a bolted safe in an interior closet in your home.
  • Prep an emergency kit
    Gather flashlights, a portable radio, extra batteries, non-perishable food, bottled water, cash, blankets, clothing and toiletries.
  • Identify a shelter room
    This enclosed area should be on the first floor, in the central part of the house with no windows. Avoid all unprotected windows and doors until the storm passes.
  • Be Sure to check out these other sites on hurricane preparedness:

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