Natural disasters bring a wide path of devastation in their wake. Long after the initial loss of life and injuries occur, homeowners who are affected are left handling the cleanup. From 1980 to 2018, the United States has had 230 weather and climate disasters with over $1 billion in costs, for a total cost of $1.5 trillion. In 2017 alone, natural disasters cost the country over $306 billion. Even smaller scale disasters can leave homeowners devastated. Thankfully, homeowner's insurance helps cover most of these disasters, but homeowners need to know how to get the most out of their policies.

Unfortunately, many homeowners do not have adequate coverage to help after a serious disaster. Those that do do not know how to get the most out of their coverage. While insurance companies do seek to help their customers, they are ultimately businesses and are working to make a profit. Also, after a disaster insurance companies are often overwhelmed by the sheer number of claims they face, which can lead to delays or denials. Homeowners need to know what they can do to ensure they are getting the most out of their insurance policies in the days following a disaster.
 
Being prepared for an insurance claim after a disaster starts before the disaster strikes. This guide will help you know what to do before, during and after a disaster to maximize your insurance coverage and ensure you have enough money to move forward and rebuild. With the tips in this guide, you can be confident that you are fully protected and fully educated on what you need to do should a disaster strike your home.

Before the Disaster – What You Need to Do

Sometimes, taking precautions to protect your home and ensure you have full homeowner's insurance protection starts before the disaster strikes. Unfortunately, close to 65% of all homeowners are inadequately insured, especially in relationship to natural disasters. Adding certain coverage types, reading your policy and ensuring you understand what is and is not covered, so you can take the right precautions to protect your home, will all help you come out in front after the disaster. Here are some tips that will help you make sure you are properly protected before a disaster strikes.
 

• Weigh the risks you face. While most parts of the country can fall victim to any number of risks, you are going to have a higher risk of certain disasters depending on where you live. For example, if you live in "Tornado Alley," you're at a much higher risk of tornadoes than if you live in the mountains where landslides or wildfires are a risk. If you live on the coast, your risk of hurricanes is high, but tornadoes is low. Living near a large body of water means a higher risk of flooding, while living near a fault line means a risk of earthquakes. If you live in the desert, your risk of a blizzard is minimal, but if you live in a colder climate it's a higher risk.
• Carefully review your existing policy for disaster coverage. Read through your existing policy to see whether natural disasters that are common in your area are covered. Look for terms about "acts of God" that may be excluded from your policy, or specific disasters that are listed.
• Check for flooding coverage. Almost all homeowners policies exclude flooding except for flooding that comes from plumbing problems. If you are prone to flooding in your area, you can purchase flood protection through the National Flood Insurance Program. However, this may not be available to you, and this means your homeowner's insurance will not cover flooding that comes after a storm.
• Consider beach and windstorm additions. Because flooding is typically excluded, if you live in an area where hurricanes are common, consider adding beach and windstorm protection to your homeowner's policy. This will add the flooding and wind damage you sustain in a hurricane.
• Read your policy so you understand it. Make sure you understand what is covered and how to make a claim, should the need arise.
• Consider adding earthquake insurance. Earthquakes can happen anywhere, even if you don't live along a fault line. Consider purchasing insurance for earthquakes if they are not included in your policy. However, know that this will be costly if you live near a known fault zone. One way to reduce the cost is to invest in earthquake-proof construction techniques.
• Check for volcano coverage. If you live in an area without any known volcanoes, your homeowner's insurance policy probably already has this coverage. However, if you live near an area that has a known volcano, like Washington state, you may need to purchase additional coverage to protect against lava, ash, dust and particle matter that may damage your home after a disaster.
• Check for additional risks. Many natural disasters bring unexpected risks, like the risk of your air conditioning system or hot water heater exploding and damaging the building or the risk of damage from the weight of ice, snow or sleet. Consider the risks in your area, then make sure the policy has the coverage you need for these unexpected consequences.
• Consider sewer backup coverage. After a natural disaster, it's possible to have your sewage system back up into your home, putting toxins in your home and damaging your property and belongings. Most standard homeowner's insurance policies do not cover this, but you can add this coverage easily, and it's typically not very expensive.
• Keep your home in good repair. After a disaster, many homeowners are surprised when their insurance denies their claim citing poor home repair. You have a responsibility as a homeowner to keep your home in good repair, and if you fail to keep that responsibility, your insurance is allowed to deny your claim.
• Remember your responsibility to maintain trees. Tress can cause problems in a natural disaster, and if you've let yours grow without proper maintenance, you may be the one liable for that damage.
• Know how your policy pays, and make sure it covers replacement value. Does your policy pay for the market value of your home and belongings, or the replacement value? That 20-year-old couch you have in your living room is probably only worth $50, but replacing it will cost over $1,000 after a natural disaster. Look for a policy with replacement value, not actual cash value.
• Check limits against housing price changes. When you purchased your policy, it was based on the value of land and property as it was at the time. If housing costs have increased, your policy has not. Make sure that you have enough coverage to rebuild, should the need arise. Some policies have guaranteed replacement cost, which means it will cover replacement even if prices have changed. This is excellent coverage to have.
• Set aside the money for your deductible. All homeowner's policies will require you to pay something out of pocket before your coverage kicks in. If your home is destroyed and you have no money to fund that initial expenses, you may be in trouble. Set aside enough money to properly fund your deductible, and then you will be well prepared for any disaster that comes your way.
• Keep important contact information in a safe place. If you have a disaster that destroys your home, all of your insurance policy and contact information will be destroyed as well. If you maintain a safe location outside of your home for important paperwork, put copies of your policies and your contact information inside that location. You will need to contact your insurance as quickly as possible after a disaster, and that requires fast access to your important contact numbers.
• Add insurance information to your emergency grab-and-go bag. If you have a grab-and-go bag for emergencies, stash your insurance information inside.
• Get important coverage now. If you need to add coverage to your homeowner's policy to avoid disaster problems, don't wait. Get the coverage now, before a disaster is looming. Many policy types will put a limit on when the coverage kicks in to prevent policy holders from purchasing a policy right before a known disaster. If you purchase flood insurance because a hurricane is coming, and the policy won't kick in for 30 days, you will be in trouble. Also, many insurance companies freeze new insurance purchases right before a disaster, so you may not be able to get an additional policy if you wait.
• Call your insurance provider. For disasters that have warning, like hurricanes, calling before it strikes can help you be prepared for what the claims process will entail. Find out what to expect in the days following the disaster and what you can do now to make your claim easier.

During the Disaster – What You Need to Do

When a disaster hits, either with or without warning, your main focus needs to be on protecting your family. There is not much you can do related to the insurance while the disaster is happening. Your primary focus needs to be safety. However, there are some steps to take to ensure you get the most out of your homeowner's insurance when the dust settles. Here are some tips to help.
 

• Focus on the safety of people and pets first. Yes, your home and your homeowner's insurance are important, but people come first. Make sure everyone gets out of the house and to safety before you take any measures to protect your home or make changes to your finances.
• Take your insurance contact information if you are displaced. Having it in your grab-and-go bag will help ensure you have it with you. Keep it simple, just a one-page document with your policy and account numbers and the necessary contact information.
• Contact your insurer. Once everyone is in a safe place, make a phone call to your insurance agent or the insurance company. Let them know what is happening and where you can be contacted.
• Find out if there are catastrophe units coming. Big insurance providers or local insurance providers may send a catastrophe unit to the area. Find out if this is happening and what the catastrophe claim number is for your region's event. If there is a number, it must be in all of your communications, so find it out as early as possible to get your claim pushed through quickly.
• Reach out to friends and family for videos or pictures. You're going to need an inventory of what was in your home, and if the home was destroyed that's challenging to make. Reach out to friends and family while you're waiting out the storm to see if they have any videos or pictures that were taken in your home. They can start gathering these while you wait out the storm, and then you will be able to make your inventory more easily.
• Secure your property if you can do so safely. Don't put your safety at risk, but do all you can to secure your property. The less damage you have, the better when the event is over. Remember, your insurance claim could be denied if your insurer feels you didn't do due diligence, but don't put your family's safety at risk to secure the house.
• Stay informed about the disaster and recovery efforts. Use a battery powered radio to stay informed about what is happening. Focus on your own safety before worrying about insurance, and only return to your home when the officials have said it is safe to do so.

After a Disaster – What to Do

If you have prepared well and have the right coverage, the real work of getting the most out of your insurance policy will start after the disaster is over. This is where swift action is important, and it's also where mistakes can be quite costly. Here is a guide that will help ensure that you get the full coverage you have paid for when the dust has settled after the disaster, all while keeping your family safe.
 
Preparing and Repairing the Property

Your first priority is likely going to be your home and belongings. Here are some tips that will help you start the recovery effort without jeopardizing your insurance claim.
 

• Return to your home as soon as it is safe to do so. Getting back to your property quickly is important to prevent theft, vandalism and additional damage. However, wait until you get the all clear from emergency professionals so you do not put your health and life at risk.
• Take pictures. Take many pictures of the damage. The more you can show your insurance provider, the better. Take a variety of angles and try to photograph all damage that you can see. These photos may become part of your claim.
• Store the photos in a safe place. Make print copies of your photos and store the digital copies in multiple places, including at least one that is in the cloud. This will ensure that you have them, even if you lose a computer or hard drive. Do not keep the photos only on your phone.
• Contact your insurance provider. If you weren't able to do so during the disaster, contact your insurance provider as quickly as possible after the disaster. A natural disaster can create a backup of claims, and the sooner you get yours submitted the better.
• Talk to the claims department. If your provider isn't sending representatives to the scene of the disaster, call and ask to talk to the claims department. This is where you will start your claim. Make sure that you have a phone number you can give them that is accessible after the disaster, such as a cell phone or the phone of the place where you are staying. Also, if you are moving away from home during the recovery, give them your address.
• Request a copy of your policy. Your actual policy may have been destroyed. Make your insurance provider send you another one so you know your rights and coverage.
• Prevent further damage to your property. Secure your property as well as you can to prevent theft and water damage. Use a water-proof tarp to cover it, and take other measures to prevent issues while you focus on recovery.
• Start making temporary repairs. Board up your windows and cover any holes in the roof. Cover your furnishings with waterproof tarps or remove them to store elsewhere. These types of repairs can help prevent unnecessary damage while you wait for your claim and the repair contractors.
• Wait to clean. Wait to clean and salvage items until you have contact your insurance company, as this could hurt your ability to make a claim.
• Shut off utilities. Electricity and gas running to the home is dangerous. Contact the utility companies to ensure they are disconnected until after you are done with recovery.
• Keep all receipts. Repairs, hotel costs, dining out and other receipts that are connected to the disaster need to be kept. Your insurance company may wish to see these as proof for your claim, and you want to ensure you are fully compensated.
• Get an agreement, in writing, from your insurance provider before you contract with someone to handle repairs. Make sure the contractor or the quote amount is approved before you start the work.
• Never sign a repair contract before researching the contractor. After a disaster, unscrupulous contractors are on hand quickly to offer assistance, but you don't want to have the work done poorly. Research contractors and read contracts thoroughly before you sign anything.

 
Working with the Adjuster
 
Your insurance company will send an adjuster to research your damages before they make an offer for your claim. Here's how to work with one.
 

• Do not try to negotiate with the adjuster during the initial visit. The adjuster has a job and your input isn't going to make a difference. Just let them look and take notes.
• Throw nothing away until the adjuster visits. Even damaged belongings need to be seen. You can start tossing things after the adjuster's visit.
• Ask for a written copy of the estimate report. The adjuster should provide this to you. Ask questions if you don't understand it.
• If you don't agree with the quote, consider hiring a public adjuster to help. These adjusters work for you, not your insurance company, and can help you negotiate a more fair quote. They are paid a percentage of the settlement reached. Make sure you choose a good one with a clear understanding of what you will be charged.
• Be willing to negotiate the final claim. You have the right to negotiate for a fair payment, and some insurance providers expect this.

Getting Through the Claims Process
 
Here are some tips for getting through the sometimes tedious claims process:
 

• Fill out the claim form. Your insurance provider may send you a claim or "proof of loss" form. Fill this out completely and accurately.
• Provide a list of damaged items. If you have an inventory of what was in your home, provide it to your insurance provider. Use brand names and model numbers when you can. The more detailed the list, the more accurate your claim will be.
• Ask if you can receive an advance check. Because a disaster means immediate expenses, your insurer may send an advance check to help you cover these. Keep your receipts, because when you settle your claim you will have to deduct these expenses. The advance will be deducted from the total you are allowed for living expenses.
• Be patient. If the devastation was wide-spread, your insurance company will have to give priority to critical facilities, like hospitals and fire stations, then homes that were destroyed completely. If you suffered more minor damage, you may have to wait. Secure your property and start your lists and wait patiently.
• Understand how replacement coverage works. The cost to replace times is subjective. For this reason, many insurance providers will pay you first the actual cash value of your items. When you replace them, you turn in your receipts to get the balance. Because of this, you need to track all of your receipts.
• Make a claim for storage costs. In the process of repairing or rebuilding your home, you may incur storage costs for your belongings. These are typically something you can submit in your insurance claim, so keep your receipts or invoices.
• Consider the insurance company's contractor suggestions. However, know that you have the right to make your own choice for a repair or restoration contractor. The one suggested by your insurance company may be the best, but feel free to shop around.
• Never use insurance money to pay contractors the full amount upfront. This opens the door for fraud potential, and if the insurance company has already paid, they aren't going to be able to help. Instead, pay a percentage of the job at the beginning, then the balance when the work has been completed and inspected.
• If staying with friends and family, you can still request living expenses coverage. Ask your host to itemize the value of the services that are being provided, and you may be able to get reimbursement to say "thanks" to the host family.
• Keep paying your insurance premiums. Yes, you are in financial straights after a disaster, but don't stop your payments. The liability protection alone is worth continuing your payments, and you will want coverage to remain in place when you are ready to move in again.
• Read correspondence from your insurance company carefully. If you receive a check that says you are accepting payment "in full release of" your claim, make sure you address this. Cross out that language on the check and write a letter to the company saying that you do not believe the claim is closed yet. You may find additional damages at a later date that need to be addressed, so don't be quick to close the claim.
• Understand how escrow funds work. If you have a large claim, your bank may hold some of the funds from your insurance check in escrow while the repairs and rebuilding takes place. Ask the bank how the escrow process works so you are well informed about when the funds will be accessible.

 
Stay Informed and Alert, and Get the Most out of Your Insurance Policy

You have homeowner's insurance for a reason, and you have paid your premiums faithfully to ensure you are fully covered. If a disaster strikes and you nee to make a claim, understand your rights as it relates to your policy. Follow through to ensure you are getting the payments you deserve based on the policy you purchased, and you can move forward after a disaster rebuilding with confidence.
 

Construction sites are at higher risk than regular commercial properties during disaster times for a number of reasons. First, the standard measures that would protect a building from a disaster, such as earthquake-proof structures or internal fire reduction systems, are not yet in place. This means the damage could be far more extensive to a building under construction than for the same building after the construction is complete.

The risk at a construction site increases because of the equipment, tools, and materials on site. These can turn into projectiles in wind storms and can be the cause of fires. Also, damage to equipment or materials can increase the costs of a disaster significantly. Construction crews need to know how to spot these risks so they can take measures to reduce them.

Every construction site needs to identify the risks that are prevalent in their geographic area,whether they be hurricanes on the coasts or tornadoes in Tornado Alley. They then need to create an emergency plan to help reduce the risk associated with these threats. Finally, construction site managers need to ensure that their team members are properly trained as to what needs to happen in a disaster. With these three steps, the overall cost of a natural disaster will be much lower, and everyone on the site and around it will be protected.

This guide is intended to be a comprehensive resource to help construction industry pros and concerned citizens who live near construction sites know what to do to protect themselves and their investments in a natural disaster. By taking the precautions in this guide, a construction site will be well prepared for any dangers that nature can throw at it.

Hurricane Preparedness for Construction Sites
 
When you live near a coast, being prepared for hurricanes is essential. Hurricanes cause widespread damage through the storm path, and hurricane damage estimates sit at around $28 billion per year. After a hurricane, while companies try to recover, the cost of building materials can increase, and this can make it difficult to rebuild and get back on track. Large equipment can be damaged or completely destroyed due to the high winds and debris of a hurricane.

If you live near a construction site, your risk becomes higher. Large equipment that sits in the path of a hurricane or the supplies for the building project can turn into projectiles, causing serious damage to the surrounding homes and properties. If the construction crew does not take the right measures to tie down equipment and supplies, your home can be at risk.

If you live in a hurricane zone and notice construction around you, or if you work at a construction site that’s in the path of a hurricane, there are steps you can take to protect yourself and your investment. Here are some ideas to help you prepare for a hurricane even with construction equipment around you.
Understanding the Risk of Hurricanes and Construction Sites

First, make sure you understand the risks that construction sites face when hurricanes hit. Here are some things to consider:

• Understand the risk of upended equipment from winds. A Category 4 hurricane with winds of 130 to 156 mph can topple trees. This wind is strong enough to pick up construction equipment and move it across the construction site and into surrounding properties. Category 5 hurricanes are even more likely to do this.
• Recognize the risks of flooding from a storm surge. Hurricanes cause a phenomenon known as a storm surge, which is a rise in water level above the normal high tide on the coast. This can cause flooding. In construction areas, toxic chemicals, like paint, gasoline and cleaning agents, are common, and flooding can pick up those chemicals and transport them to other areas.
• Understand the increased risk of flooding from extreme rainfall. If the storm causes severe rain, then the risk of flooding increases significantly. Hurricanes often drop six inches of rain per hour, and this can cause catastrophic flooding. In fact, flooding accounts for over half of the deaths in hurricanes and also ruins equipment that is left exposed.

Necessary Safety Precautions for Construction Sites
 
Construction sites that are located on coastlines need to know what precautions to take to protect people and property when a hurricane hits. Here are some strategies that will provide critical protection.

• Construction sites should never be occupied during a hurricane. The risk of injury to crew members is too high, so when a hurricane is approaching, work needs to shut down, and people need to go home.
• Move long-term material storage away from areas prone to flooding. Materials in flood areas will be damaged, and chemicals will leach into flood waters and hurt the surrounding communities. Store materials higher than ground level if possible and away from clear flood zones.
• Create two teams, the Hurricane Response Team and the Hurricane Recovery Team. The Response Team will know how to prepare for the hurricane event, while the Recovery Team will be trained how to deal with the aftermath of a storm.
• Have a list of supplies and materials. Should something be damaged or go missing after a hurricane, having a list of the major materials on site will help with identifying missing inventory.
• Reduce the amount of accumulated debris and scrap metal on site. These easily become windblown hazards in a hurricane, so eliminating them before the storm will help protect the job site and the surrounding community. The scrap that cannot be eliminated should be tied down and stored more securely or placed in a sealed dumpster.
• Empty dumpsters before the storm hits. If you know that a storm is approaching, empty all dumpsters. If you cannot get them emptied in time, have them covered with nets to prevent the contents from turning into hazards.
• Anchor or remove barricades and loose buildings, like portable toilets. Barricades are easily picked up by the winds of a hurricane. Non-essential barricades should simply be removed during the storm. Essential ones should be properly anchored to reduce this risk.
• Protect underground piping and storm drain systems. If these are not yet completed, they could easily be infiltrated with sand and silt during flooding. Take measures to protect them before the hurricane hits.
• Prepare cranes for the storm. Lower the booms, raise the hook and allow tower cranes to weather vane so they can better withstand the storm.
• Prepare other large equipment for the storm. Top off fuel tanks, anchor lighter pieces of equipment and protect valuable equipment from flying debris.
• Establish an off-site place to meet. There may be a need to meet to discuss restoration after a hurricane. Establish an off-site place where the Hurricane Recovery Team can meet to discuss what needs to happen next.
• Secure building framework. Banding, concrete fill, and heavy structural steel components can help keep building frameworks in place during a hurricane. When this isn’t possible, remove the frameworks to prevent damage.
• Protect the site from flooding. Cofferdams, sandbags, and other similar products can help prevent some of the flooding associated with hurricanes.
• Have a relocation plan for equipment. Large equipment like excavators and drum rollers can be damaged in a hurricane if your site is in the storm’s path, so whenever possible, relocate costly equipment to higher or protected ground.

What Can a Concerned Citizen Do?

If you live or work near a construction site, you may be wondering what you can do to ensure that your neighbor is doing everything possible to keep themselves and you safe. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Contact the site manager to ask about safety protocols. If you can find the contact information for the site manager, contact them when you know a hurricane is coming and find out what their protocols are.
• Ask what the hurricane plan is. If you live or work near the job site, you have a right to know that the company is taking the necessary precautions to make the site secure. Feel free to ask what their plans are. Keep in mind, though, that they may be busy preparing, so be respectful of their time.
• Know the local regulations. Many hurricane-prone areas have regulations that require construction sites to work in a hurricane-aware manner. Familiarize yourself with these regulations and see if the local construction site is following them.

What Should You Do After a Hurricane?

If your construction site is hit by a hurricane, there are some steps you can take to secure the property and start the restoration process:

•  Have a system in place to notify the on-site crew when it is safe to return. Make sure the team knows when they should report back to work. Have a safety inspection crew ready to see the site, then a system in place to contact crew members so they can return to work only when it is safe to do so.
• Use caution when assessing damage because of potential post-storm hazards. A construction site will have numerous hazards after a hurricane including toxic water, jagged debris, and unstable buildings. After getting the all-clear to return to the site to assess damage, crews must use extreme caution.
• Have a plan for water removal. Water removal is one of the first and most important things to tackle after a hurricane. Water can not only damage the materials on the site, but it can also soften the ground, which hurts the structural stability of the project. Water needs to be emptied onto a street that has a stormwater system or pumped into tanker trucks to be hauled off-site safely.
• Initiate salvage activities quickly. Sort out the damaged and undamaged materials, cover all equipment that has become exposed due to the storm, check for leaking gas lines, check for downed power lines, and ensure fire protection systems are restored to the property as quickly as possible to avoid additional damage and expense.

Lightning Preparedness and Construction Sites

Lightning strikes can cause damage to construction equipment and construction sites. While most finished buildings have a plan for lightning, those plans may not be in place at the outset of the project. Many construction managers forget about the realities of lightning, but every year there are 20-25 million cloud-to-ground lightning strikes in the U.S. That’s a significant number, and the tall equipment on a construction site is at high risk.

In order to protect a construction site and the workers on it, construction crews need to understand the risks of lightning strikes and what can be done to reduce those risks. Here’s a closer look at what precautions need to be taken to protect construction sites and personnel from lightning.

Understanding the Risks of Lightning on Construction Sites

Lightning is a risk to everyone who is outdoors, but those working in construction face a slightly higher risk than the general population. Here are some things you need to understand:

• Construction sites are at higher risk for lightning strikes. Steel erection of a non-finished construction project and large equipment, such as cranes or boom lifts, will attract lightning because of their height. During a storm, construction crews need to be aware of this risk.
• Construction workers and roofers account for 19% of lightning deaths, so the risk is worth considering. While lightning storms may seem minor, they pose a threat that construction workers need to take seriously.
• Lightning is the second leading cause of weather-related deaths in the United States. Even though it seems less deadly, lightning is more dangerous than strong storms. Lightning strikes kill more people than tornadoes and hurricanes.
• Consider the risk to equipment. Equipment that is struck by lightning while in use can be completely destroyed, because most of today’s construction equipment has onboard computers and diagnostics.

What to Do on a Construction Site During a Lightning Storm

If you are on a construction site and see a lightning storm approaching, here is what you need to do:

• Seek shelter in buildings. Every construction site should have a building or temporary building that is safe during a thunderstorm. Crews should be instructed to take shelter in a fully enclosed building and remain inside for at least 30 minutes after the last round of thunder has ended.
• React promptly when weather issues strike. Yes, the job needs to get done, but safety cannot be compromised. When lightning is spotted in the area, take appropriate shelter.
• Unplug electrical equipment. Before heading to safety, unplug any electrical tools and stow them out of the way to prevent overloading them should the site be struck by lightning.
• If the site has no enclosed building, an enclosed vehicle is the most appropriate place to take shelter. Keep the vehicle parked away from trees, electrical poles, metal fences or anything else that is tall enough to attract lightning.
• Remove metal gear. While metal does not attract lightning, it does heat up and can cause catastrophic burns if someone wearing metal gear is struck by lightning. During a severe thunderstorm, it’s a good idea to remove metal gear you are wearing.
• Get down. If you are working on a high surface and hear thunder or see lightning, get down as quickly as you can safely do so.
• Have fire extinguishers on hand. If lightning strikes wood on a construction site, it will likely cause a fire, so keep fire extinguishers on hand.
• Practice the 30-second rule. Sometimes you will see and hear lightning when it is still far enough away that you are perfectly safe to keep working. The 30-second rule says that if you see the lightning, count between the time you see the bolt and you hear the thunder. If you can count 30 seconds, the lightning is far enough away that you are safe. If you cannot count 30 seconds, you need to seek shelter.
• Stop crane operations. Cranes are particularly vulnerable during lightning storms. Land the load, lower the boom, shut off the electrical power, and leave the crane when lightning is in the area. Do not resume crane operations until 30 minutes after the storm has passed.

What Can a Concerned Citizen Do?
 
If you live or work near a construction site and are concerned about safety during lightning events, here are some tips.

• Learn proper first aid for lightning strikes. If someone on the construction site is struck by lightning, someone trained in CPR could save a life. The sooner a victim can get help the better, and that help may have to come from a concerned citizen who lives nearby.
• Speak up. If you regularly notice the construction crew working in unsafe lightning conditions, talk to the site manager. Sometimes simply saying something can put a stop to the unsafe behavior.
• Stay back. Because of the tall equipment and buildings on a construction site, it’s wise to stay away during a lightning storm.

What to Do if a Lightning Strike Occurs on a Construction Site

• If lightning strikes a person, administer first aid and call for emergency response quickly. If the person is not breathing, administer CPR until emergency personnel arrives.
• If lightning strikes a building under construction, the biggest risk is fire. Have fire extinguishing equipment on hand to put out the fire. Be aware that in buildings that have completed walls, the fire can burn inside the walls slowly for an extended period before becoming obvious. It’s best to call the fire department to have the property inspected.
• If lightning hits equipment, damage from power surges is possible. Power surges can hurt the wiring in construction equipment. Disconnecting the electrical systems can help prevent this, but be aware that damage can occur.
• Contact the insurance provider promptly after the incident. The site’s insurance coverage may cover any damage, so contact them as soon as possible after the lightning storm.

 
​Earthquake Preparedness and Construction Sites

​Hurricanes and lightning storms often have some warning, but earthquakes do not. Every day, between 50 and 80 earthquakes occur around the globe. Thankfully most of these are either under the water or are mild enough not to cause problems, but each year there are around 100 earthquakes around the globe strong enough to cause damage. While seismologists do try to predict coming earthquakes, they cannot predict them accurately enough for construction sites to plan ahead. Also, earthquakes do not always happen on fault lines, which adds to the frustration of trying to plan around them.

That said, construction sites in earthquake-prone areas can take some measures to protect their work and their crews from unnecessary injury or damage during and after an earthquake. Here are some tips to help ensure the site is as safe as possible.

Understanding Risks to Construction Sites from Earthquakes

Earthquakes have four main risks you need to be aware of. These are:

• Ground displacement can cause uneven surfaces. Be aware of this when entering the construction site and preparing for repairs after an earthquake.
• Fire is a serious risk. Broken power and gas lines leave the site vulnerable to fire.
• Flooding is possible near waterways. Broken dams or levees can allow flooding in normally safe areas.
• Buildings can topple in an earthquake. This includes buildings that are not yet complete, and some construction projects will be at higher risk because their earthquake protection measures may not be completed.

Preparing a Construction Site for an Earthquake

Since earthquakes come without warning, it’s best to be prepared at all times. Here are some precautionary steps that construction sites can take.

• Have a safe place designated on the construction site for earthquakes. The safe places normally chosen, like under a table or desk or against an interior wall, will not work on a construction site. Aim to be away from the building, which could collapse, and away from any large equipment. Remember that most accidents after an earthquake happen within 10 feet of the building, including construction site buildings. However, try not to move too far from your current position, as the farther someone moves during an earthquake event, the greater the chance of injuries.
• Practice earthquake smart construction techniques. Technology has improved significantly in recent years, resulting in structures that are much more likely to be earthquake resistant. By implementing these strategies early in the construction project, you can limit the amount of damage to the site and the risk of injury to construction crews.
• Practice “Drop, Cover, and Hold On.” Drop, cover, and hold on is an earthquake safety measure that anyone can practice, regardless of where they are when an earthquake hits. It refers to dropping to hands and needs, covering your head and neck with one arm and crawling to the closest shelter, then holding on to something steady until the shaking stops. Finding shelter is the challenge during an earthquake on a construction site, but even a large piece of equipment or a tree can serve as a shelter when needed. OSHA recommends practicing this technique at least twice a year, and at least once per new construction site.
• Hold earthquake drills to ensure that construction crew members know the proper response during an earthquake. This is a key preparation step because, in the chaos of the moment during an earthquake, people may experience moments of panic. By preparing ahead of time, you can help prevent injury during an earthquake.
• Watch for fires. Broken gas lines, even near construction sites, and damaged electrical components or electrical lines can cause fires. Also, the motion of the earthquake itself can release sparks, leading to a fire.
• Keep an earthquake emergency supply kit. If your construction site is near areas prone to earthquakes, keep an earthquake emergency supply kit on hand to protect yourself and those on the site with you.
• If operating equipment when an earthquake hits, stop and exit the vehicle as soon as safely possible. It is difficult to control equipment and vehicles during an earthquake, and they can be deadly.

What Can a Concerned Citizen Do?

• After an earthquake, do not enter the construction site. If you suspect there are injured or hurt individuals, do not enter the site. Leave that to first responders. The entire area could be unstable, and you could become a victim while trying to help others.
• Clear a path for first responders. If the path to the construction site is blocked, help clear a path so first responders and rescue crews can get on the site.
• Only jump in to help with recovery if you are qualified and able to do so. Rescue professionals are trained to rescue people safely without putting themselves at risk. Make sure you are not entering the rescue if you don’t have the right knowledge and training.
• Consider bringing clean water to the rescue and construction crews. Water lines can be damaged after an earthquake, and you can help by bringing clean drinking water to them.

What to Do After an Earthquake Hits

If an earthquake hits your construction site, here’s what you need to do afterward:

• Know that after the shaking stops, there is always a possibility of aftershocks. For that reason, you should not return to the site or work until you are confident all risk has passed.
•  If there is a clear path away from the construction site, exit as quickly as possible after the shaking has stopped. A construction site is not somewhere to be during aftershocks, so encourage the entire work crew to get away quickly for their safety.
• If an aftershock hits, the area will be still recovering from the damages of the first quake. This means that the infrastructure could be weakened and not prepared for additional milder shaking, and the risk of a damaging collapse is higher.
• Only enter the site to assess damage after all risk of aftershock has passed. Stay in contact with emergency personnel or a weather and emergency radio to learn what is recommended.
• If trapped, find something to tap to help rescue crews find you. Rescue crews are trained to listen for tapping on pipes or whistling, so use these tools to ensure you can be safely found.
• Wear protective clothing during cleanup. Long sleeves, heavy boots, and work gloves can protect you from damage from sharp objects that were dislodged during the shaking.

Construction Safety and Additional Types of Disasters
 
While earthquakes, hurricanes, and lightning are the most obvious types of disasters that can hurt construction companies, many other risks can occur. Fire, tornadoes, and flooding can all also cause serious problems and costly bills for construction companies. While it’s impossible to know the future, there are steps that construction sites need to take to ensure they are prepared for potential risks that could hit their areas.

As a risk, fire is fairly universal. Fires can occur in any part of the country, any time in the year. Construction crews need to understand what to do to avoid this risk and protect themselves. Construction sites are particularly vulnerable because of the large amount of hot work and electrical equipment on them, combined with the incomplete fire detection and prevention systems. Between 2010 and 2014, 3,760 fires in structures under construction and 2,570 fires in structures under major renovation were reported, leading to 9 civilian deaths, 116 civilian industries and $280 million in direct property damage.

Each year, an average of 1,253 tornadoes occur in the United States. With wind speeds over 200 mph, these are significant storms that can cause brutal damage to a construction site. Tornadoes can occur anywhere in the country, but they are more likely to occur in “Tornado Alley.” This is the band of land between the Rocky and the Appalachian Mountains where tornadoes are the most common. Tornadoes rarely have sufficient warning to warrant significant changes to a job site, so it’s critical to be prepared at all times.

Flooding can occur after other types of natural disasters, or it can occur due to problems like dams or levies that break. Flooding can even occur when water rises exceptionally high due to snow melting or heavy rains. Sometimes the rains occur away from the area that floods, but the runoff water flows into a lower area.

Here is a closer look at each of these risks and what can be done to protect construction workers, equipment, and sites.

Fire and Construction Sites

To protect a construction site from fire, here is what you need to know and do.

• Identify the fire risks on the site. Fire risks are found everywhere on construction sites. Gas leaks from lines that are not completed properly, sparks from electrical equipment, and even the flames from soldering equipment are just some of the risks. Learn to identify and then lessen fire risks on the site.
• Create a fire safety plan before starting the construction project. Every crew member needs to know what to do in case of a fire and how to properly put out the various types of fires possible on a construction site.
• Set up temporary fire alarm systems. Again, the permanent fire alarm systems are not going to be up and running. Using a temporary fire alarm system will help alert people on the construction site to any risks that occur so that they can get to safety in time.
•  Keep heaters away from combustibles. The heat from construction site heaters can lead to a fire, so place heaters properly.
• Perform “hot work,” like grinding and welding, away from combustibles. This is a leading cause of fires on construction sites. When possible, replace hot work with cold work that does the same job, but when not possible, have a safe and dedicated area for this type of work.
• Have a fire extinguishing plan in place. Have the right size and material of fire extinguishers on site to ensure you can put out any fires that do develop.
• Understand that permanent fire protection is not in place on a construction site building. Fire protection systems, like automatic sprinklers, are not yet functional in a building that’s under construction, so all it takes is a spark to destroy millions of dollars of work.
• Store combustibles safely. Combustible chemicals and materials must be on a construction site, but you can take measures to store them safely.
• Carefully control the use of open flames. Do not allow open flames on a construction site unless absolutely necessary for soldering. Waste management and cooking should use other options.
• Practice good housekeeping. Keeping the construction site clean will leave less material to start and spread a fire. Insist on cleaning well after jobs.
• Designate a smoking area far from the construction site. Ashes and sparks from lighters are one of the primary causes of fire on construction sites. If crew members must smoke, they need to do so in a safe location.
• Evacuate immediately in the event of a fire and call 911. Fires spread quickly on construction sites, so don’t mess around if one starts.
• If you notice a fire starting on a construction site, or suspect any smoke is coming from the site, alert authorities immediately. The cost of a construction site fire can be in the millions of dollars, so the sooner emergency vehicles can get on the site, the better for everyone.
• Report fire safety issues that are not addressed by the site managers. OSHA requires this, so do not let safety issues go unchecked. Report to your local fire department or fire safety office.

 
Tornadoes and Construction Sites

Tornadoes cause extensive damage wherever they touch down. They can pop up seemingly out of nowhere when a rainstorm turns violent, and they can devastate a construction site that happens to be in their path. Here are some tips for dealing with the risk of tornadoes or the aftermath of one.

• Identify proper tornado shelters. A proper tornado shelter is a location away from doors and windows in a permanent building, if possible. Since this is rarely possible on a construction site, look for a nearby building that can be used as a tornado shelter. Avoid buildings with flat, wide roofs.
• Keep a weather radio on hand to monitor the weather. Know what the weather is doing so you have time to take action if a tornado pops up, especially during the summer and stormy spring seasons.
• If in construction equipment when a tornado warning sounds, exit the equipment and turn it off. Construction equipment can become airborne in a tornado, so you will need to get out of it.
• Have an alarm system to warn workers of the pending storm. Make sure workers have time to seek shelter if a tornado warning or watch is issued. If the local tornado sirens cannot be heard well on the construction site, have a loud warning system of your own.
• Always know who is on site so that all workers are accounted for at the shelter. Have sign-in procedures and rosters, so management knows who is and is not on site.
• Proceed with caution when returning to a work site after a tornado. Debris is sharp and dangerous, and the structure of the building may have been damaged by a tornado. Make sure to use caution when returning to work
• Empty the dumpsters. If there is time, such as in a tornado watch instead of a warning, empty the dumpsters. This will limit the amount of debris you must clean up after the storm.
• Secure everything you can. Again, this is only applicable in a tornado watch, not a warning, but take time to secure equipment, supplies and other valuable things. Don’t forget to secure scaffolding, portable toilets, and tools that may fly during a tornado.
• If you are not part of the construction crew, stay away from the construction site. During a tornado, there are far too many risks on a construction site, so seek shelter far from it.

Floods and Construction Sites
 
Finally, floods are a risk that construction sites need to be aware of and protect against. Often, floods do come with a little warning, except in the event of a levy or dam breaking, but they can cause delays and costly damage to the construction site. Here are some tips to help protect the site and those around it.

• Identify any risks based on the site location. Is the site near water? Does it have a natural drainage? Is there a way to add drainage? Use flood maps to assess this risk, then take measures to ensure the area can properly drain when needed.
• Understand the impact of sediment runoff. Often in construction, the contour of the land is important to the construction project. When sediment runoff occurs, defining property boundaries can become difficult. Also, the grading that has occurred to make the building project possible will be damaged.
• Have a plan to protect equipment and personnel if the site floods. Creating a site flooding plan if you are at risk for a flood will save lives and money.
• Assess the materials that will be damaged by flood waters. Steal construction material may be fine if it gets wet. Plasterboard or composite wood will be damaged. If you suspect a flood is coming, elevate those materials that need to be kept dry. If you are caught by a flood without warning, dispose of damaged material before moving on with the project.
• Build portable barriers to prevent flood damage. Gates or flood walls and even sandbags can all help reduce the risk of financial damage and loss from flooding at a construction site.
• Store electrical and mechanical equipment above projected flood heights. If there is a flood warning, make sure electrical and mechanical equipment is stored above the flood water’s expected level.
• Understand the risk of contamination from chemicals. Flood water can be contaminated with chemicals that are stored on a construction site, and this puts the surrounding community at risk.
• If a flash flood warning is issued, evacuate the area. Flash floods can kill in an instant, so take these warnings seriously. Even construction equipment is not safe from flash floods.
• Never wade in flood water on a construction site. Because of the high risk of contamination, flood water is not safe. Wait until the water recedes or have it drained properly before entering the construction site to assess the damage.
• If you notice flooding concerns at a local construction site, contact the local authorities. Many cities have Stormwater Management Divisions or similar groups that handle flooding concerns. Report these concerns promptly to help prevent contamination and other issues from flood waters.
• If flooding near you goes through a construction site, be aware of the additional risk of toxins the waters carry. Always stay out of flood water as a result.

Keeping Construction Sites, Safe Requires Planning and Vigilance
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A natural disaster, no matter how small, can cause millions of dollars of damage to a construction site, hurting both the construction crew and the company paying for their services. To prevent this, construction crews need to understand the risks and how to avoid them, so they can move forward confidently knowing they will be prepared when a disaster strikes. Those who live near construction sites also need to know what these risks involve so they can take measures to protect themselves and their properties from potential risks the site poses. With this guide, you can be safer ​around construction sites, even when natural disasters strike.

Article Source: ​https://www.bigrentz.com/how-to-guides/disaster-safety-construction-sites

If you are a driver, knowing what to do when a disaster is looming is critical. Your vehicle could be an invaluable tool to get you to safety before the disaster strikes — or it could turn into a violent projectile. You need to know how to protect your car and how to get proper payment for any damages that occurred.
In addition to understanding your insurance rights, you need to understand what to do to stay safe in your vehicle as you either evacuate the disaster zone or prepare to ride out the emergency. After a serious natural disaster, the roadways in your area may be completely destroyed, traffic signs downed, and emergency personnel stretched thin. There are a significant number of risks, even after the worst of the event has passed.

This guide is intended to help you understand how to stay safe when a hurricane or other natural disaster hits, especially when it comes to cars and drivers. You will find tips on safe driving, what to do in a storm, how to prepare, and what to do afterward.

Hurricane Hacks #1: Tips as a Driver

While many tips are specific to hurricanes, there are tips that apply to all types of natural disasters. Here are some things to keep in mind.

If You’re Driving When a Natural Disaster Strikes

Some natural disasters hit without warning or hit an area they were not projected to strike. Unfortunately, one of the worst places to be during a disaster is inside a car, as 1.3 million of the 5.8 million accidents that occur in the U.S. each year are connected to weather. That said, there are going to be times when you get caught unexpectedly in a storm or earthquake. Here are some tips to help you stay as safe as possible if that happens.

• If you notice flooding, do not drive through it. Flooded roads are often much deeper than they appear, and flood waters can wash away the actual road in moments. Remember, 32% of all flood-related deaths occur in vehicles. It takes just 30 cm of flowing water to move your car.
• If you are caught unexpectedly in your car during an earthquake, try to move to an open area away from trees and buildings. Then, pull over and stay inside your car. Wait at least 15 minutes after the earthquake to ensure the aftershock risk is over.
• Watch for cracks in the pavement and other risks. After an earthquake, tornado, hurricane or other serious storm, heading back out requires precautions. Watch out for cracked pavement, damaged bridges, downed power lines, and other potential risks.
• For high winds and tornadoes, do not stay inside your car. Find shelter as quickly as possible and move far away from your car if you are at risk for a tornado. A ditch or depression in the ground is the best place to hide if you are not near any buildings. Cover your head with your hands and wait.

Driving After a Natural Disaster

If you are driving after a natural disaster is over, you still need to take precautions. These events are called “disasters” for a good reason, and you need to understand that there are still many risks that you face on the roads, even after a natural disaster is over. Here are some tips to help you stay safe.

• Know the road risks and watch out for them. Slippery wet roads, crumbling infrastructure, washouts and more are all possible after a natural disaster. Know the risks specific to the type of disaster your area faced, and watch out for them.
• Always follow posted signs. If there are temporary signs warning you of a danger ahead on the road, follow the instructions. Do not assume that because you are a good driver or have a powerful truck or SUV, you will be fine. If the authorities are warning about dangerous conditions, take note.
• Keep your gas tank full. After a natural disaster, finding gasoline is not always easy. Gas stations may be damaged or closed. Try to find a source of gas, then keep your gas tank at least ½ full at all times. You don’t want to end up stranded because you ran out of gas.
• Prepare for traffic jams. Once a disaster has ended, people are going to need to get out of the area, and this can cause a significant amount of traffic on the road. Be cautious as you head out into traffic, and be prepared for your trip to take much longer than normal.
• Bring food in the car with you. If you are stuck on the road for hours, you may need food and water. Pack some before you head out.
• Before heading out, check your car for damage. If it was submerged in water or otherwise damaged in the disaster, take care of the damage before you start driving if at all possible. It takes just a cup full of water in the wrong place to create significant damage to your car’s engine.
• Remember that other drivers are stressed too. After a natural disaster, people are scared and stressed. They may drive erratically and fail to follow traffic rules. Be prepared for this.
• Watch out for drunk drivers. Sadly, natural disasters cause an increase in substance abuse problems, and this can lead to more drunk drivers on the road.
• Always use your seat belt and properly place children in safety seats. Should an unexpected hazard come your way, your seat belt could save your life. The CDC estimates that over 3,000 lives could be saved every year if people used seat belts properly.
• Recognize that traffic lights and traffic signs may be gone or damaged. Practice safe driving even without signs, such as treating intersections as a four-way stop if the traffic light is out.
• Watch for trash. Trash in the roadway or falling from vehicles that are hauling out debris from the disaster zone is another risk to watch for.
• Stop when you need rest. Natural disasters are exhausting. Take the time to rest, even if it just means pulling to the side of the road for a quick nap, especially when you are exhausted.
• Put paper maps in the car. If your GPS doesn’t work properly and your planned route is impassable, you need a paper map to ensure you can get to your destination.

Pack an Emergency Supply Kit

Finally, before you head out after a natural disaster, make sure you have the supplies you need. Here are some tips for packing an emergency supply bag.

• Pack food and medication. You may take longer to get to your destination than you think, and restaurants or stores may not be open after a disaster, so pack what you need. Make sure you have enough for your family up to 72 hours
• Add some flares. If you have a breakdown along the way, make sure you have a way to tell other motorists of your problem so they can watch out for you.
• Take your most important documents. Social security cards, credit card information and passports should not be left behind. Take these with you when you head out after a disaster.
• Have a stocked first aid kit. If you or one of your family members are injured, having a first aid kit will be important.
• Pack some basic car repair tools. If your car has a problem, there aren’t going to be emergency professionals available to help you. You need to know that you can change a flat or replace a headlight bulb on your own, so pack the tools you might need.
• Toss in a blanket. Even if the weather is warm, you may be stranded overnight. Make sure you have a blanket, just in case.
• Include a flashlight. Flashlights are essential when power outages are likely, so stash one in your emergency supply bag. Don’t forget the extra batteries.
• Toss in a rain poncho. No need to get soaked if you need to step out of the vehicle to deal with something. In a storm, it will likely be raining.

​Hurricane Hacks #2: Driving Tips for Hurricanes
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​Hurricane season has brought some of the most tragic natural disasters in recent history. The sheer magnitude of many recent hurricanes combined with the flooding afterward has devastated communities and cost many lives. The majority of those deaths were from accidents on roadways. If you find yourself facing a hurricane, it’s critical that you know how to properly manage the storm as you seek to protect yourself and your family. Here are some tips to help you avoid a tragedy even when faced with the daunting task of driving during and after a hurricane.

• If you have warning, either evacuate or stay home until the risk of the disaster is over. Hurricanes often come with a bit of warning. If you can, stay home or in a secure shelter. It’s always safest to stay off of the roads during a hurricane when at all possible.
• Evacuate if asked to. Again, with disasters that have some warning, you may be told to evacuate. Do it. It’s not worth the risk of staying in place and getting stranded.
• Recognize the different risks of hurricanes. Hurricanes are such tragic storms because of the many different risks they can cause. Hail, lightning, rain, wind, and flooding are all risks associated with hurricanes, and you need to know how to manage each one.
• Properly prepare your vehicle. Make sure the tires are inflated and your spare is ready to go. Purchase a car phone charger, make sure the A/C works, and stash your emergency bag in the car before you head out. Fill up your car with gas as well.
• Check your tires. In addition to being properly inflated, your tires need to have ample tread to properly grip wet roads.
• Plan your route. If you can, use the hurricane route first. This is where emergency personnel will be set up offering relief stations with food, fuel, and water. Contraflow lanes may be set up, reversing typical traffic direction, to allow more people to evacuate. Tolls may be waived as well. If you live in a hurricane-prone area, your area likely has predetermined evacuation routes.

Driving When There Is Lightning
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If you must head out during a hurricane, make sure you understand the risks specific to this type of storm. Hurricanes pose many threats to motorists, and lightning is one of them. Here are some tips for driving safely in lightning.

• If you’re experiencing lightning and cannot go indoors, stay in your car. During a lightning storm, if the car is hit, the metal exterior will transmit the current to the ground.
• Avoid touching metal in a lightning storm. While your car is a safe place to be, you’ll want to avoid touching metal components, including your seat belt buckle, until the storm stops.
• If your car is hit by lightning, wait to exit it until you’re certain the current has dissipated. This may mean waiting out the duration of the lightning storm, if possible.
• Understand that the bigger risk from lightning is the risk of it hitting a tree or power line, which are much taller than your car, and sending obstacles into the roadway. Be aware of what is happening around the roadway while you try to drive through the storm.

Driving When There Is Hail

Hail is a much bigger risk for drivers during a hurricane. Here are some tips to make it easier to drive safely in hail.

• Keep your eyes on the road. The sound of hail hitting a car is disturbing. Make sure you do not let it distract you from the task of driving.
• Seek shelter. If the hailstones are large enough to crack your windshield, take shelter and stop driving until the threat has passed.
• Allow three times the usual distance between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you. It’s much easier to be involved in a collision with the low visibility and slick roads during a hail event in a hurricane. Give yourself plenty of time to react by leaving more space than usual between your car and other vehicles.
• Stay inside your vehicle. If the hailstones are large enough to dent your vehicle, exiting the car puts you at extreme risk of physical injury. If you can’t find shelter, stay inside your vehicle until the hail stops.
• Angle your vehicle so the hail hits the front. Your windshield is made to withstand impact better than the other windows of your car, so aim your car so that most of the hailstones are hitting the windshield.
• Avoid facing the windows. The biggest risk from hail while you are in your car is shattered glass. Lie down inside your vehicle and cover your face with a blanket until the worst of the storm has passed. If stopping the vehicle is impossible, have passengers cover their faces and face away from windows.

Driving in Intense Rain and Flooding

When Hurricane Harvey blasted Texas in 2017, experts estimated that it dispensed 33 trillion gallons of water on Texas, Louisiana, Tennessee, and Kentucky. Rain lasted for days and caused intense flooding, leading to the massive devastation of the killer storm. Rainfall and flooding are some of the most common risks of a hurricane. Here are some tips for driving in this type of weather.

• Turn on your wipers and headlights, but not your emergency lights. Only use the emergency lights if you have an emergency.
• Leave a six second gap. When the rain gets intense, hydroplaning is a real risk. Leave at least six seconds between you and the car in front of you.
• Don’t use your cruise control. Hydroplaning problems get worse if you are using cruise control, because the car will speed up and lose control completely.
• Know what to do if you hydroplane. If you hydroplane, let go of the gas and steer straight until you get control over the vehicle again.
• Never drive through puddles if you can avoid it. It’s impossible to tell how deep the water in a puddle is or what the condition of the road underneath is. Driving through puddles can cause damage to your car allowing it to stall.
• Stop if you can’t see. If the rain is so strong that you can’t see, stop. You cannot drive safely if your vision is obscured.
• Don’t drive through flowing water.  It only takes six to twelve inches of water for a vehicle to start floating, so do not drive through moving water.
• Understand that roads under water are prone to collapse. This is another reason why you should avoid traveling on water-covered roads whenever possible.
• If you must drive through standing water, slow down. Sometimes it’s impossible to avoid a risk like standing water. If you must drive through a roadway with standing water, slow down to avoid hydroplaning.
• After driving through water, dry your brakes. Depress them slowly to squeeze out any excess water.
• If you get stuck in water, immediately abandon your vehicle and head to higher ground if possible. If you can’t get out of the car, get the attention of someone nearby or call 911.
• Consider bringing a hammer that will allow you to break the window glass. During a hurricane, getting trapped in a flood is a very real risk, so this little tool could save your life.
• Stay away from flood-prone areas. Flash floods can happen in a hurricane, so stay away from low-lying areas or areas near creeks and other bodies of water.

Tips for Managing Winds when Driving in a Hurricane

Deadly winds are the final risk of a hurricane and one that you need to watch carefully to avoid. With wind speeds from 75 to over 156 miles per hour, hurricanes are nothing to mess around with. Keeping your car on the road is hard when the wind is this high, so keep these tips in mind.

• If you don’t have to drive, properly secure your car. Your car can become a projectile or be damaged by wind-blown debris during a hurricane. If you can, park your car inside your garage. If you don’t have a garage, park it near some overhead cover or next to a building to provide a measure of protection. Avoid parking near trees or power lines, which are often the first things to topple under hurricane-force winds.
• Don’t give your car too much credit. That big truck, jeep or SUV is not safer in a hurricane than a small car. In fact, big, bulky vehicles may be more likely, not less likely, to have trouble driving through wind, as they are more likely to experience a rollover.
• Watch for flying debris. Flying debris can destroy your car or cause a fatal accident. Drive slowly, and keep yourself alert for this very real potential problem.
• Steer clear of big trucks. Semis can act almost like a kite in the strong winds of a hurricane, so give them plenty of space. You never know when they may suddenly change lanes due to a sudden gust of wind.
• Watch for downed power lines. If these are on the road or near water, you are at risk of electrocution, so keep your eyes open for power lines downed by the wind.

Tips for Hitting the Road After a Hurricane

If you are going to stay home during the storm, but wish to leave the area once it’s over, consider these tips.

• Don’t be fooled by the storm’s eye. Leaving during the eye of the storm is very dangerous. Stay put until you get the all-clear from emergency professionals.
• Keep a radio on. Your radio will let you know when it’s safe to venture out.
• Know that roads will be damaged. Your normal routes may be impassable, so have alternates planned.
• Prepare for extreme traffic and missing traffic signs. Again, traffic is going to be a problem, so drive slowly to compensate.
• Watch for debris. Debris in the road can make your travels challenging after a hurricane, so keep your eyes peeled.
• Avoid bridges and overpasses when possible. These are the first areas to suffer damage in high winds, so keep away from them as long as you can safely do so.

​Tips for the Elderly and Disabled During and After a Hurricane

Those who are elderly or who suffer from a disability are going to need some extra help to get around during and after a hurricane. While the safe driving tips apply universally no matter the age or ability of the individual, some people need to take additional precautions. Consider these tips.

• Evacuate early if you or someone you love is at high risk. This is not the time to wait it out. The elderly and disabled are especially at risk if they are caught in a hurricane, so move quickly.
• Bring plenty of medication. Bring enough medication for several weeks, because it may be hard to get medications refilled during a hurricane. Don’t forget non-prescription items like wound dressings, incontinence supplies, and over-the-counter medications or supplements.
• Bring enough food and water for at least three days. While traveling, getting food and water isn’t always easy, and the elderly or disabled will suffer the most without enough. Plan ahead so you can pack enough supplies.
• Plan stops along the way. Sitting the car for an extended period of time is hard on older or disabled individuals. Plan your route and leave early enough that you can stop and get out of the car safely from time to time.
• Have a plan for portable oxygen. You may not have access to power consistently as you flee a hurricane. If someone is in need of portable oxygen, find out where you can get enough supply for your trip.
• If a disabled or elderly individual is ill, consider pre-admittance into a hospital or specialized care facility in a safe zone. Your loved one’s doctor can help you arrange this. Make sure you carry the pre-admittance letter with you when you evacuate so that the care is covered by Medicare or insurance.
• Charge up the A/C before heading out. You’re going to be spending a lot of time in your car, and the weather is likely hot and humid during hurricane season. Make sure you have a working air conditioner to keep your loved one safe, as those who are ill or elderly have a harder time managing uncomfortable heat levels, and a car that is not moving quickly is going to heat up fast.
• Recognize that moving an elderly or disabled individual during or before a storm is logistically challenging. Take time to think through all of the aspects of the move that you need to consider ensuring you don’t forget important equipment or medication that your loved one will need.
• If evacuation is not possible, try to drive or transport your loved one to a special needs shelter. Many communities have started putting up special needs shelters after serious storms or other natural disasters. These shelters have additional medical care and medical equipment to ensure the needs of those who need a little extra help are met well. To use this shelter, you will need to register with the county before the hurricane hits.
• Keep written care instructions. If your loved one is separated from you at some point, having written care instructions that other caretakers can access will help keep care as it should be. Also, having written care instructions will ensure you don’t forget medications or other care needs in the stress of evacuation.
• Understand the risks that a particular special need creates. For example, someone with mobility issues will not be able to take most transportation options. Someone who cannot hear won’t hear emergency sirens. Keep these types of special considerations in mind throughout your planning and your travel.

For more information about emergency preparedness and the elderly or those with special needs, visit:

• University of California San Diego: Emergency Evacuation for People with Disabilities
• Texas A&M AgriLife Extension: Hurricane Evacuation Planning for People with Special Needs
• Emergency Management: Confronting the Challenges of Evacuating People with Disabilities
• AccuWeather: Why Evacuating Is a Bigger Hurdle for the Poor, Elderly and Disabled Ahead of Major Disasters
• Ready.gov: Seniors

Tips for Young Drivers Driving in a Hurricane

If you are new to driving, you may feel overwhelmed by the challenges a hurricane brings. After all, you are just learning the ropes of the road, and now you must deal with bridges that are out, street signs that are not in place anymore, and drivers who are scared and driving erratically. Here are some tips that will help you get to your destination safely, even as an inexperienced driver.

•  Know what to do when traffic lights are out. If you approach an intersection and the traffic light or stop sign is missing, but you know or think that it should be there, treat it as a four-way stop.
• Be prepared for illogical drivers. After a natural disaster like a hurricane, scared people take to the roads. Many act aggressively or abnormally as a result of their fear and anxiety. Be alert for driving behavior that doesn’t quite make sense.
• Know what to do when you hydroplane. A new driver may not have experience with hydroplaning, and your gut reaction will be to turn the wheel of the vehicle hard to get it back in a straight position. This is wrong and will make you spin out of control. Calmly hold the vehicle in a forward-facing position until you gain control again, and do not slam on your brakes.
• Take a defensive driving course. If you live in a hurricane-prone area, a defensive driving course could help. It will teach you the right strategies to use to deal with aggressive and dangerous drivers, which will be invaluable in the event of a hurricane and evacuation.
• Evacuate early. Your inexperience behind the wheel could put you at serious risk if the hurricane hits. Evacuate early to avoid any undue risk.
• Remember the dangers of water and wind. Make sure you look over the tips for water and wind especially, as these will be some of the most serious you will face on the road.
• Avoid distracted driving. Don’t talk on your cell phone or text while driving in the wake of a hurricane. You will even want to avoid hands-free communication. Have your passenger talk on the phone or pull over to make any necessary calls, because you need your full attention on the road and the other drivers.
• If possible, let someone more experienced drive. It’s hard to understand the risks associated with a hurricane and driving. If you have a more experienced driver who can take the wheel for you, hand it over. You’ll have plenty of time to practice your driving skills later when the danger is not so intense.

Hurricane Hacks #3: Insurance and Disasters

Hurricanes are very likely to cause damage to your car, so when the storm is over, you’re going to need to get it fixed. You may be wondering whether or not you have insurance coverage. Here are some things to know.
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• Check your policy before the storm so you know what is and is not covered. This will prevent any unwanted surprises after the storm.
• Look for collision coverage. If your car is hit by another car or object, or if it is thrown and hits something else, collision is the type of coverage that will help.
• Make sure you have comprehensive coverage. Comprehensive coverage covers hail, floodwaters, wind and other natural occurrences. Your insurer will determine exactly what “natural occurrence” is covered. If you want to be certain that hurricanes are covered, ask your insurance provider.
• Avoid policies with just the state minimums. Most states have minimum policy requirements. These policies are designed to protect other drivers when you are on the road with them. They do not have any coverage for you or your vehicle, so they will not help in a hurricane.
• Make sure the risks of a hurricane are named. Most insurance policies will limit coverage for “acts of God,” such as hurricanes, beyond what is stated and named in the policy. Make sure wind, hail, water, flood and rain are all named as coverage, or that the policy has a general statement that it covers “acts of God.”
• Get insurance before the hurricane season. Many insurance providers won’t issue new policies when a hurricane is predicted. They place binding restrictions on policies that prevent agents from selling new insurance for vehicle damage in the zip codes or states where the hurricane is expected to make landfall. This prevents people from applying for minimum coverage most of the year, then just adding a rider for hurricane protection when a storm is looming, which would make the insurance company lose money. Get your coverage early to avoid undue risk.
• Understand what you would be paid. In many instances, cars damaged in a hurricane are total losses, which means they would be impossible to repair or would cost more than their value to be repaired. In most insurance policies, you will be paid the car’s value, minus your deductible. If the car is old or has high miles, this may not be much. Make sure you understand what you will be getting if your car is destroyed in a hurricane.
• File a claim with your insurance provider as soon as possible after the hurricane. Hurricanes cause so much damage there may be a delay as insurers deal with a massive amount of claims coming in. The sooner you get in line, the sooner you will get paid. Have your policy number on hand when you call.
• Document your damages. As soon as conditions are safe to do so, take photographs of your car’s damage from many different angles. Type or write all of the observations or damage you have noticed, or the things your mechanics have quoted for repairs. Having this proof will give you something to look at later if you have forgotten and have a question about your claim.
• Ask about a rental car. If you have comprehensive coverage, you may have coverage for a rental car to use while yours is being repaired. Ask about this, but know that many of the local rental companies probably sustained damage to their vehicles as well, which may mean you cannot find a rental.
• Know if you are in a risky area. Determining whether or not to buy hurricane insurance often requires a measurement of your risk. Do you live near the coast in the southern part of the United States or the eastern part of the country? If so, you will want to have coverage that will pay for hurricane damage. Coastal areas in Florida, Texas, Mississippi and Louisiana are the most at-risk areas.
• Be prepared for your rates to go up. After a storm that caused you to make a claim, your rates may go up. This is normal and there’s not much you can do about it, but you can shop for new insurance to try to get a lower rate.
• Have a new car? Consider gap insurance. New car owners often face scenarios where they owe more on the car than it is actually worth. If your car is damaged and considered a total loss after a hurricane, you could be left owing the bank quite a bit. Gap insurance covers the gap between the actual cash value of your car and what you owe, so this can be a valuable piece to have if you have a car loan and live in a hurricane-prone area.

Hurricanes Are Serious Risks, but Smart Drivers Can Be Safe

The sheer magnitude and power of a hurricane puts a person in a car at serious risk. It is critical that you understand this risk and what you can do to lessen it when faced with the realities of living in a disaster-prone area. You don’t want to end up stranded in your car on a water-covered road or wake up after the hurricane to find that your car has been completely destroyed. With a little bit of smart driving and a better understanding of the risks, you can keep yourself, your family and your car just a bit safer.
 
Article Source: ​www.thezebra.com/insurance-news/5685/hurricane-hacks-natural-disaster/