If this Hurricane season has taught us anything, it is the unpredictable nature of these storms. Hurricanes Helene and Milton did significant damage up and down the eastern seaboard. While hurricane season thankfully ends in November, be prepared for next season with this list for disaster preparedness, with a few lessons from those who experienced losses this year.
1. Document and Catalog Belongings
- Video your home’s interior and exterior: Walk through your house with a camera or smartphone, capturing valuables and major appliances. Make sure to talk through items on video and show any serial numbers.
- Create an inventory list: Write down item descriptions, model numbers, and estimated values. This catalog will be essential if you need to file an insurance claim after the storm.
- Store documents securely: Upload videos and inventory lists to cloud storage, ensuring access even if paper copies are lost.
2. Move Valuables to Climate-Controlled Storage
- Relocate precious items: Move heirlooms, jewelry, or important documents to climate-controlled storage located outside flood-prone areas.
- Consider off-site digital backups: Scan critical documents like insurance policies and store them digitally.
- Elevate items within your home: Place remaining valuables on higher floors or shelves to protect them from floodwater, make sure to move them away from windows as well.
3. Review and Update Insurance Policies
- Check your insurance coverage: Make sure your policies include flood insurance, which is often separate from standard homeowner’s insurance.
- Update policy details: Verify coverage amounts for your home and belongings to ensure they align with current market values.
- Document contacts and policies: Keep your agent’s contact information and policy numbers accessible for easy reference during and after the storm.
4. Compile a List of Reputable Contractors
- Research and vet local contractors: If you own your home, make a list of licensed and reputable contractors before the storm hits.
- Ensure availability: Confirm contractors can respond quickly after a disaster.
- Avoid post-storm scams: Use trusted sources, like your insurance company, to find professionals for repairs.
5. Strengthen Your Home’s Defenses
- Install storm shutters or board up windows with plywood.
- Secure outdoor furniture and any loose items that could become projectiles in high winds.
- Trim trees and branches near your home to prevent damage.
6. Stock Emergency Supplies
- Have a 72-hour emergency kit with non-perishable food, water, flashlights, batteries, a first-aid kit, and necessary medications.
- Keep a radio on hand to receive weather updates if power is lost.
- Make sure to have a generator if you live in an area prone to long power outages.
7. Evacuation Plan and Contacts
- Identify evacuation routes and have a plan to leave early if necessary.
- Share your plan with friends or family outside the storm zone.
- Keep fuel tanks full and emergency cash on hand in case of power outages that impact ATMs and gas stations.
By preparing early, reviewing insurance policies, safeguarding important items, and having a reliable contractor list, you’ll be better equipped to protect your home and recover quickly after the storm. Planning ahead makes all the difference when every minute counts.
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