Stay Safe During a Hurricane

Now through late October is considered peak hurricane season. To help homeowners keep their families and their property safe during a hurricane, Saltmarsh Insurance Agency offers tips to help prepare.

“Being prepared in advance and taking the appropriate actions to protect your family and property can help to prevent or mitigate injury or losses,” said Whip Saltmarsh, owner of Saltmarsh Insurance Agency. “Don’t wait for the storm to be headed your direction. Here’s a list of easy-to-do action items that can be completed well in advance and improve your odds of weathering the storm safely.”

Hurricane preparation tips:

Create or update a home inventory. It is one of the most important, but often overlooked preparations. Homeowners’ insurance claims are more likely to be processed up to twice as quickly when customers have completed a home inventory in advance of a loss, according to The Hanover Insurance Company, a leading property and casualty insurer.
Stock emergency supplies, including: a battery-powered radio, flashlights, extra batteries, medicines, first aid handbook and kit, and a week’s worth of non-perishable food and water. Other items to have on hand include: prescriptions, pet supplies, plastic sheeting, tape, and toiletries such as diapers.
Secure your home: Repair loose boards, shingles, shutters, downspouts—the kind of things that could become greater problems in high winds or torrential rain. If you live near the coast, purchase and store materials you may need to board up windows.
Bring items inside your home that could become dangerous as flying objects, including toys, grills, planters and lawn furniture.
Purchase battery-operated carbon monoxide and smoke alarms if you have a generator you may have to use. To help ensure safe operation, take time to read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.• Develop an evacuation plan, and know where local shelters are located. If you have a furry friend, be sure you have a list of local shelters and hotels that allow pets.
Create a list of key telephone numbers including, family, friends, fire, police, insurance agent’s, etc. that may be needed in the event of an emergency.
Sign up for weather alerts. Stay alert about approaching weather and follow advice from local officials to stay safe during storms.
Review your homeowners policy with your insurance agent to determine whether you have adequate protection. In particular, consider whether you have flood insurance and if your policy will cover current rebuilding costs.