June 1st marked the official start of Hurricane Season and forecasters say to prepare for a more active than usual storm season this year due to warmer temperatures of oceanic waters.
The beginning of hurricane season is a good time for homeowners to review their insurance policies for adequate coverage on their property. Hurricane season starts June 1st and runs through the end of November. Policyholders should consult with their agent and develop a complete understanding of the coverages they have purchased.
In addition to reviewing insurance policies, Fichtner Services wants to share with you the three things families should keep in mind leading into hurricane season – planning, preparing and protecting.
Plan
It’s always important for a family to have a plan for emergencies, whether it be a fire, earthquake or hurricane. Every family member must know what to do to stay safe.
When a hurricane threatens, decide if your family will move to a safer place inland, go to a designated shelter or ride out the storm in your home. Make sure you stay in touch with local authorities to know the severity of the hurricane. You should also plan an escape route in case your family needs to evacuate.
Prepare
Your home should have a survival kit prepared for an emergency. It should include:
- Non-perishable food items
- Drinking water
- First aid kit
- Battery-operated radio
- Flashlight
- Fresh batteries
- Personal necessities such as medication, prescription glasses and insurance information
As a roofing contractor in Annapolis, Fichtner Services knows first hand that damage that can be caused by hurricanes and other storms. There are several steps you can take as a homeowner to make sure your home is prepared:
- Cover up windows and doors using hurricane shutters
- If you don’t have the shutters, cover your windows and doors with ¾-inch plywood
- Make sure your garage door is closed and anchored
Remember that serious hurricane damage can occur when wind and debris get into your house through a broken door or window. When storm damage happens, you can count on Fichtner Services to be there for emergency repairs including roof repair, siding repair and with replacement windows and doors.
Protect
Whether you stay at home or evacuate be sure that you protect yourself and your family.
If you don’t need to evacuate the area, stay indoors away from windows or glass doors. Put as many walls between you and the storm as possible. If you don’t have a basement, go to a closet or a bathroom.
If you need to leave the area, make sure you go directly to the shelter. Take your survival kit and lock all doors and windows before you go. Let your relatives or friends know where you plan to be.
Remember the 3 P’s: Plan, Prepare, Protect
Those who have a hurricane plan do much better than those who don’t. Taking a moment to plan today may help you avoid last-minute panic. It could save your home and your family.
Courtesy : Marc Carella, State Farm Insurance
