Hurricane season begins June 1—is your home ready to face the storm?
Proper preparation for hurricane season can make a big difference in protecting your property and your family.
Here are some important steps you can take to protect your home and property:
Before the storm:
Get flood insurance:
Even if you don’t live in a flood-prone area, it’s important to have flood insurance, since standard homeowners insurance policies typically don’t cover water damage. Find an insurance agent and compare different options. Remember, there’s a 30-day waiting period before the policy takes effect, so don’t wait until the last minute.
Keep your insurance agent’s contact information handy:
Save your agent’s phone numbers and email addresses in your phone and in a safe place. It’s also a good idea to have digital copies of your insurance policies and other important documents.
Create a home inventory:
Take photos or videos of every room in your house, including items inside closets and drawers. Note the serial number, purchase date, and approximate price of each item. A detailed inventory will help you get fair compensation if your home is damaged.
Expand your auto insurance coverage:
Comprehensive auto insurance protects you from damage caused by floods, hail, fires, and strong winds.
Inspect your roof:
Check for damaged shingles, leaks around the chimney or skylights. A professional should handle any repairs and secure loose shingles.
Strengthen your home’s exterior:
Install storm shutters on windows and a wind-resistant garage door. Garage doors are especially vulnerable during strong storms and can collapse, putting your home’s structure at risk. If you can’t replace your garage door, reinforce the existing one with additional supports.
Secure your yard:
Trim tree branches hanging near your house and store any loose objects that could become projectiles during the storm, such as patio furniture or trampolines.
For more information and resources on preparing for hurricane season, visit websites like Ready.gov and TexasReady.gov, which offer helpful tips for protecting your family and home before, during, and after a storm.
Remember, preparation is key to minimizing damage and ensuring the safety of your family and property during hurricane season.
Image: CNN
