June 1st marks the beginning of hurricane season. Are you and your loved ones prepared? Though most storms may seem relatively harmless, the weather can escalate quickly. However, despite this uncertainty there are key steps that can be taken that could benefit your safety in the event of severe weather.
- Monitor the weather: though this may seem arbitrary, being aware of what is going on is the first step to thorough preparation. Being able to recognize the signs of severe weather through forecasting resources allows for the opportunity to prepare effectively when a storm is on the way.
- Make an emergency plan: after discerning that severe weather is on the horizon it is time to create a plan. This plan should include supplies that need to be gathered, where important documents are located, and directions to the closest severe weather shelters. This plan should also allocate for pets, children, and any other vulnerable family members that may need extra assistance. Take the time to review this plan annually as part of your preparations at the start of each hurricane season.
- Supplies: having the proper supplies is essential when it comes to being ready. Stocking up on water, non-perishable food, extra clothing, pet supplies, chargers, first aid kits, flashlights, and weather radios will allow you and your loved ones to have access to necessities even if it is not safe to go out due to flooding, power outages, or blocked roads.
- Listen to Safety Personnel: one of the easiest ways to increase your level of protection during inclement weather is to follow the instructions of the safety and weather personnel that are monitoring the situation. If it is suggested to take shelter, seek higher ground, or evacuate, follow these instructions. This will help benefit the security of not only you, but your loved ones as well as you put yourself in the safest situation possible during the storm.
- Review Your Coverage: in advance of a storm heading your way, carefully review your homeowners or renters’ insurance to make sure that you are fully covered in the event that the worst happens. Often people make improvements to their home and neglect to upgrade their insurance or underestimate the value of their possessions. You don’t want to find out that you are underinsured when trying to rebuild from a catastrophic storm.
- Prepare for Insurance Claims: preparation in advance of a storm can make all the difference in having your insurance claim handled fairly. Photograph your home, inside and out, prior to the storm landing so that the extent of any damage can be properly assessed. In taking the photographs, pay particular attention to items of value inside your home. Also, photograph important documents, including insurance policies, and store the images on your phone. Having access to these documents can expedite the commencement of your claim.
Severe weather can be unnerving. However, there are resources readily available to equip you with the knowledge you need to be prepared. Click Here to explore about Ready.Gov’s website. Click Here to be directed to the American Red Cross Hurricane Preparedness Page. To see more of our hurricane related posts Click Here. To learn more about our team of local Tallahassee attorneys Click Here