Knowing the ins and outs of your household’s structural integrity is vital to your safety. Hurricanes affect homeowners living near the Gulf of Mexico, the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, endangering those without proper preemptive protection. If you’re gearing up for the hurricane season, examine the following pre-hurricane tips to help reduce the chances of high winds damaging your home.
Gather as Much Information as Possible
The National Hurricane Center suggests information is the homeowner’s most valuable resource. Windstorm insurance premiums differ depending upon area and weather exposure, but garnering information can directly enhance your plan’s coverage options by protecting your household’s overall defense. Knowing the following is important:
- Nearby evacuation areas
- Household vulnerability to flooding, wind and storm surges
- The National Weather Service’s forecasts
Additionally, maintaining National Weather Surface contact information ensures immediate contact in the event of an emergency.
Create a List of Possessions
Recording your household’s possessions will validate your windstorm insurance procurements. In the event of property loss, damages or intellectual property loss, documented items can be more easily covered. Your insurance agent also needs information, and cataloged items damaged in a hurricane are easily accounted for.
Examine the Yard and Gutters for Debris
While many homeowners pack away lawn equipment, grills, pool cleaning materials and chairs, many forget about yard debris. Sticks, rocks and even solidified gutter material poses a threat to a windswept household. Be sure to clear away any potential debris—including debris accessible only on the roof. During a hurricane, previously unnoticeable material may surface. It may be lifted and propelled at the household, damaging paint, shutters or windows.
Tape the Windows
Windows often become primary damage areas during windstorms and hurricanes. Heavy rain and wind can create leaks, broken surfaces and warped windowsills. In many cases, taping a window’s crevices shut helps ensure a secure interior. Rain can and will breach unprotected crevices, dampening—even damaging—nearby interior objects. Investing in storm tape is a good idea, as is ensuring each window is tightly secured.
When preparing for a hurricane, remember to list necessary supplies, such as water, food, portable generators, radios and walkie-talkies. The above tips, while useful, must still match other protective actions. Your insurance provider intends to protect received damages, but assuring minimalized damage beforehand reduces expenses, while enhancing your home’s overall defense.
Protect your home from Mother Nature’s worst. Call Penzato Insurance Agency at 985-542-4675 for more information on hurricane insurance.