How To Prepare for Hurricane Season

11/1/2021 (Permalink)

Do you live in an area that's prone to hurricane activity? Are you new to the area and want to know what you should do when a hurricane warning happens? When a hurricane is approaching, know how to be ready by following our guide of the Top 6 Tips to stay safe and prepared during hurricane season.

Tip #1: Stock Up on Essentials

Depending on the severity of the hurricane, you want to prepare for the loss of electricity and the ability to cook. Stock up on water, bread, non-perishables, and items that you can eat without cooking like many canned goods. Keep extra batteries on hand for flashlights and headlamps. A portable cellphone charger, candles and matches could be beneficial as well.

Tip #2: Check Your Insurance

Make sure your insurance coverage covers flooding and other expenses you may incur in a location like Tampa, FL.

Tip #3: Make a Video of Your Home

This helps with proving the current state of your home pre-storm. Insurance companies will have an easier time processing your claims. Keep important documents in a water and fire-proof safe, but also make electronic versions of the ones related to your home and your personal information in case they are destroyed. Documents such as your birth certificate, your driver's license, your home's deed, your social security card, and unpaid bills are good examples.

Tip #4: Protect Your Property

Install hurricane shutters or plywood of at least 3/4 inches in thickness. You may need to install hurricane clips to secure the roof of your home to the walls and foot and head bolts on all doors. This is important in areas that may receive a direct hit.

Tip #5: Make an Evacuation Plan

When it is time to leave, go. Make a plan for where you and your family will stay at least 50 miles from your home.

Tip #6: Don't Take Risks

People hurt in hurricanes stay in their homes or are taking extreme risks -- like leaving late. Make sure you don't do anything silly when the hurricane begins. Pre-planning is the first essential step to ensuring sufficient safety.

Locally Owned Company with National Storm Resources

We live and work in this community, too; we might even be neighbors. As a locally owned and operated business, SERVPRO of Northwest Orlando is close by and ready to respond to your flood or storm damage emergency. We are proud to be an active member of the community and want to do our part to make our community the best possible.