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.

Hurricanes are a devastating force of nature. A typical hurricane can produce 6 to 12 inches of rainfall, wind gusts up to 100 mph or more and storm surges that can swallow an SUV.
 
Steps to help you prepare for a hurricane.

• Check your insurance coverage.
  • Did you know a standard homeowners policy doesn’t cover flood? You need to buy a separate flood insurance policy to be protected from flood damage.  
  • You must buy flood insurance at least 30 days in advance of any named storm for the policy to be in effect.
• Stock an emergency supply kit.
  • Some recommended items for emergency supply kit. 
    • One gallon of water per person per day for at least 3 days.
    • 3 day supply of non-perishable food.
    • Batter powered or hand crank radio.
    • Flash light and extra batteries.
    • First aid kit.
    • Plastic sheets and duct tape.
    • Local map.
    • Keep your cell phones charged at all times
• Do a home Inventory.
  • Take an inventory of everything in your home by making a list and taking pictures. Store the pictures on your cell phone and back them up.
• Protect your property.
  • Move personal property to higher ground if flooding occurs.
  • Move outdoor property inside a garage or shed.
• Plan your evacuation.
  • Turn off utilities.
  • Prepare for flooding by moving valuables to a higher floor or shelf.
  • Call a friend or relative and tell them where you are going.
  • Take your emergency supplies with you.

These are a few thing you should do to get ready for a hurricane. If you have any addition questions please contact us and we will be happy to go over everything with you.