Hurricane Preparedness Tips
Living near the coast can be a little nerve wrecking during hurricane season. Being prepared is a wonderful way to help decrease panic and ensure life gets back to normal as soon as possible after the storm. Here are a few tips to consider:
Take a Home Inventory
Taking a home inventory ahead of a hurricane is important. Take inventory of everything inside your home—clothing, toys, furniture, kitchen items, electronics, household goods, etc. You especially want to have proof of high value items. A walking video through your home is an easy way to record your property and make the process of getting paid for your damaged items much easier. Save this video online or in the cloud so it can be accessed even if your electronic devices are damaged in the storm.
Have an Emergency Supply Kit
Having an emergency supply kit on hand is important. Not only can these items make dealing with the post-hurricane mess a little more bearable, they can also ensure the safety of your family.
Include items in your kit such as:
• Non-perishable food
• Bottled water
• Batteries
• A battery powered cell phone charger
• Flashlight
• A first aid kit or other medical supplies
Also, consider keeping items of importance with you. This can include bank information, birth certificates, important family photos, etc. If certain members of your family require daily medication, be sure to keep a few days’ supply with you. Find your home insurance policy number and your company’s claims phone number to include in your packet of important documents. 925 Partners sends all our clients an email as the storm is approaching with their home insurance policy number and a link to their company’s phone number to file a claim immediately after the storm.
Secure Your Property & Prepare
Preparing for a hurricane takes a bit of effort. However, there is usually a bit of advanced warning for this type of storm, which allows you to appropriately prepare your home. Identify potential hazards—such as windows that need covering—and make appropriate plans to secure them. Fill your car tank with gas and be ready for any emergency evacuation orders. It is also vital to communicate with your family what your emergency plans are and how to communicate with each other if you are separated during the storm.
After the Storm
• If your property sustains damage, contact your agent to file a claim as soon as you have the chance. In a catastrophic situation, thousands of claims will be filed, and the sooner you file your claim, the sooner it can be resolved.
• As soon as it is safe to do so, take photos of the damage.
• Take any measures necessary, while maintaining personal safety, to secure your property from more damage. Hiring someone to tarp your roof, remove mold, clear debris, etc., will all be covered by your home insurance policy. Keep all receipts and take photos of the work you have done before your claim adjuster can make it to your property.
The team at 925 Partners takes a proactive approach to guiding our clients through the hurricane process. From in-depth guidance when selecting a home insurance policy with the proper coverages and deductibles, to sending correspondence prior to the storm’s arrival to check one more item off your hurricane preparedness list, to assisting with the claim process to get you back on your feet, 925 is prepared to serve the Jacksonville community through the 2021 hurricane season.
