Hurricane Season is here – What to do if you plan to ride out the storm

2019-09-04
By: Denise Koslowsky

The safety of you and your family always comes first.  We would like to recommend that if you are in the projected path of a hurricane and you are advised to evacuate, that you heed the warnings and get away safely. If however, you plan to remain in your home during the storm, follow these tips to stay safe:

• Fill your gas tank and make sure you have fuel for your generator
• Install storm shutters
• Clear gutters by removing any debris that can block the flow of water.
• Get a portable radio and plenty of batteries so you can listen to important storm updates, information and instructions.
• Secure all outdoor objects such as garbage cans and lawn furniture and bigger items such as boats.
• Bring in plants, grills and any lightweight items you can indoors.
• Protect important documents in a fireproof safe or plastic container. Be sure to include your insurance policy number, it will help the claim process proceed smoothly.
• Move electronic equipment away from windows and doors and cover them with plastic.
• Prepare for flooding by moving items of value to a higher elevation.
• If you have area rugs, roll them up and move them to an elevated area if possible.
• Do a quick inventory with a video camera to help with the claim process after the storm.
• Move your car to higher ground. If your home is located in a potential flood zone, you will want to be sure you move your vehicle to prevent damage. DO NOT LEAVE IT PARKED UNDER POWERLINES OR TREES.  Park it in the garage, with the emergency brake applied and against the doors if possible.
• Deadbolt and lock your front door.
• Place towels at the base of any French Doors or Terrace Doors.
• Stay inside and keep away from all windows, skylights and glass doors.
• Never go outside the protection of your home before there is confirmation that the storm has passed the area. The eye of the storm could create a temporary and deceptive lull.
• If power is lost, keep the refrigerator closed to keep cold air trapped and delay spoilage of perishable food.

If you do encounter damage from the storm, remember your friends at Advocate are here for you.  You can find all the information you need for filing a claim right on our website.  If we can be of assistance, please don’t hesitate to give us a call.