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Hurricane Preparedness

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Learn How to Prepare for a Tropical Storm

We’ve all seen the dramatic effect hurricanes can have – both the initial wind and rain and the floods and devastation that follow. But, there are steps you can take to stay safe and reduce damage to your property in the event of a storm.

Before a Hurricane

Know What Your Insurance Covers and How Much You Need

  • Homeowners insurance typically covers the cost to repair common hurricane damage, including damage to roofs and walls, cars and your personal belongings.
  • If you can’t live in your home, Safeco may help pay for additional living expenses as provided in your policy. Review your policy for detailed coverage explanations.
  • Review your insurance policy once a year to make sure you have enough coverage to rebuild based on current construction costs. Learn more about insurance to value.
  • Work with an independent building contractor to get a precise estimate, and talk to your independent insurance agent about your home’s unique features to help determine your cost to rebuild, and update yearly as needed.

Flood Damage from Hurricanes Isn’t Covered by Property Insurance
Neither home nor business insurance covers flood damage from a hurricane, including floods from storm surges. Your local Safeco agent can help you purchase a policy through the National Flood Insurance Program.

What to Do Before the Storm

  • Install storm shutters.
  • Remove yard debris, such as dead tree limbs, that could become flying missiles.
  • Have a safe place to park your cars and/or store your boat.
  • Make sure you, your family and/or employees know how to shut off utilities.
  • Look through your emergency kit to ensure it’s fully stocked and up to date with necessities for all household members, including pets.
  • Back up computer records and store them at least 50 miles offsite.
  • Gather important papers, including inventory lists and insurance information, to take with you if you must evacuate.

During a Hurricane

What to Do if a Hurricane Is Headed Your Way

Indoors

  • Avoid elevators.
  • Stay inside and away from windows, skylights and glass doors.
  • Know your community’s evacuation plan and, if asked to evacuate, do so immediately.

Driving

  • Avoid washed out and wet roads that can hide downed electrical lines or underlying currents that can carry your vehicle away.

Information courtesy of Safeco Insurance. To learn more about hurricane insurance, contact Dershimer Insurance Agency at 863-299-8330