We are moving into hurricane season and we to remind you of how important it is to have the right kind of insurance and to be prepared.
Hurricanes bring two big problems: water and wind. Depending on where you live, you may need to buy these separate policies in order to cover hurricane damage:
- Flood insurance: Most homeowner’s insurance policies will cover floods, including water from a storm surge. To get coverage, you’ll need flood insurance.
- Windstorm insurance: Homeowners’ insurance policies in some hurricane-prone states won’t pay for windstorm damage. If you live in one of these states and want coverage, buy a separate windstorm insurance policy.
Here are some basic emergency preparedness suggestions to include in your planning process.
- Create a family communication plan for children and adults to have. Put copies in your children’s backpack and in your wallet or purse.
- Flood insurance is not covered under your homeowner’s policy. While hurricanes are generally covered, if a flood ensues later, it may not be covered. You will need a separate flood policy.
- Install hurricane shutters.
- Prune all trees around your home.
- Keep a mobile emergency kit in your car.
- Monitor radio and local TV stations for evacuation orders. Act without delay to avoid traffic.
- Assemble/replenish disaster supplies kit: FEMA recommends three days of food and water for each member of the household, including pets. You can assemble a kit yourself, or purchase a pre-assembled kit online or from many local stores. Store items in your household designated safe location.
- Discuss with your family the safe locations for shelter in the places you are likely to spend time: home, school, work, place of worship, etc.
- Find out your vulnerability to flooding, wind, and storm surges, and whether you live in a mandatory evacuation zone. Visit the FloodSmart.gov website to see updated flood maps.