How to Prepare for Hurricane Season 2010

Hurricane season begins June 1st and runs through November 31st. Hurricane hazards come in many forms: storm surge, high winds, tornadoes, and flooding. It is important for you to have a plan that includes all of those hazards. Ask yourself, are you prepared?

Before a storm threatens you, familiarize yourself with the risks specific to your area. Find out where official shelters are located. Trim trees and shrubbery, clear loose or clogged rain gutters and downspouts, and purchase plywood or shutters to cover doors and windows. Be sure to review the working condition of emergency equipment, such as flashlights and battery-powered radios and make certain you have enough non-perishable food and water supplies on hand. It is a good idea to have a checklist. In the event your property does sustain damage, be sure to keep receipts on all items purchased to mitigate damage.

In the event of an approaching storm, fuel all family vehicles, have extra cash on hand, secure all valuable items and take pictures and videos of your home and contents. Inform your neighbors and a family member of your evacuation plans. Those not in an area expected to experience harsh conditions should still stay away from windows and doors. Locate yourselves in an interior first-floor room, i.e. bathroom or closet. Frequently listen to the radio or television for official weather updates of the storm's progress. Follow instructions issued by local officials. If you are planning to evacuate, leave with enough time to ensure you are in a safe area before it is too dangerous to travel. If possible, bring your pets along.


PUBLIC SHELTER INFORMATION
Shelters are operated by trained individuals and ensure that the safety, security, and basic needs of its residents are met.

What to bring to a shelter?
• Change of clothing, blanket, and pillow for each family member.
• Your disaster supply kit, including food, medications, comfort items, and special items for infants or elderly family members.


Be sure to have all important paperwork with you. Check before hand with your insurance companies Disaster Guidelines and Claims Submission process.

After the storm, be cautious of road conditions. Wait until an area is declared safe before entering. Do not attempt to drive across flowing water. As little as six inches of water may cause you to lose control of your vehicle. Twenty four inches of water will carry most cars away. Do not allow children to play in flooded areas. If someone needs to be rescued, call professionals with the proper rescue equipment to help. Many people have been killed or injured trying to rescue others. Have professionals check gas, water and electrical lines for damage. Use a flashlight for emergency lighting. Never use candles and other open flames indoors.

In preparation, it is important to verify that your home and property are properly insured. Many also consider Supplemental Natural Disaster Protection. This special insurance pays the insured directly, every month, the amount of money they selected; should their home become temporarily uninhabitable following a covered natural disaster. The following natural disasters are covered: Lightning, Hail, Windstorm, Flood, Tornado, Earthquake, and Fire. (Fire is only covered when designated a catastrophe by ISO) Supplemental Natural Disaster Protection can be paid for up to two full years or until the home is rebuilt Supplemental Natural Disaster Protection. and they can move back in. The amount selected should always be sufficient to cover the home mortgage payment. These monthly benefit is paid in addition to any other insurance benefit that may be received.

Experts are predicting the 2010 storm season to be active with above-normal threats to the U.S. coastline. Being prepared is of the utmost importance to keep you and your family safe.