According to meteorologists, hurricanes can appear between June 1 and November 30. Given the statistics of damage and loss, it is very smart to incorporate the appropriate steps that will help stop the devastation related to human life, home, business, automobile and everything else. property you own.
While homeowners, renters, and business owners should consistently obtain adequate insurance coverage, it is those who live directly in the storm hazard line who should ensure that their policy covers all angles of potential hazards. To this important end, shoreline owners must review their plans carefully. Including the service of a sympathetic independent insurance agent will be an added benefit. He or she should be able to tell you candidly about any discrepancies and advise you on how to fill the gaps so that you have the coverage you need when you need it most.
Your insurance agent will no doubt stress the importance of making copies of important documents, particularly those that prove your undisputed ownership of your home, business, car, boat, and anything else of value. Once this is done, you should keep the originals in a safe place and the copies offsite.
The next course of action for those who live in coastal areas, as well as mobile home complexes and high-rise apartment buildings, is to come up with an evacuation plan. Government agencies have usually already done a good deal of the work in this area by drawing an evacuation route for your location. Be sure to study it and do an evacuation drill with your family and loved ones before any anticipated hurricane or tropical storm hits. If you have a pet, make proper evacuation plans for your pet, too, by reserving a spot at an animal shelter in advance of the appropriate weather alert.
Simultaneously, families must update their emergency kit. Make sure there is a sufficient supply of bottled water, food, blankets, and other essential items. Store all of this in an easy-to-carry container, one you can quickly grab on your way out.
Homes or buildings that are already in disrepair have a higher chance of further damage from a wind or rain storm. This is why the smart homeowner will ensure that the above repair jobs are completed before inclement weather. The number one place to check on a structure is the roof. Be on the lookout for loose or missing shingles and any other less than perfect condition!
Another way to minimize potential damage from a storm threat is to firmly secure or remove items in your yard that can become debris once picked up by high winds.
Last but not least, high on the list of importance is the need for companies to have a computer data support system. Transfer data to another protected site so you can retrieve the information when the storm has abated.
Mother Nature has made sure that life is never too boring. Stay safe!