Hurricane Preparedness: Your Essential Steps to Stay Safe and Secure
As hurricane season moves into the Maritimes, it’s vital to be prepared to safeguard yourself, your loved ones, and your property. Hurricanes can unleash powerful winds, heavy rainfall, and flooding, but with proper preparation, you can minimize risks and ensure safety. Here’s a guide to help you get ready for a hurricane.
1. Stay Informed
Monitor Weather Reports: Regularly check weather forecasts and updates from reliable sources like Environment Canada or your local news station. Understanding the trajectory and intensity of an incoming hurricane will allow you to make informed decisions.
Sign Up for Alerts: Subscribe to emergency alerts from local authorities and weather services. These notifications will provide timely information on evacuation orders, shelter locations, and essential safety measures.
2. Create an Emergency Plan
Family Communication Plan: Develop a communication plan with your family. Ensure everyone knows how to contact each other and agree on a meeting place in case you become separated.
Evacuation Routes: Familiarize yourself with local evacuation routes and decide on a safe destination if you need to leave your home. Keep your vehicle’s gas tank full and have a go-bag ready.
3. Prepare an Emergency Kit
Essential Supplies: Your emergency kit should include the following:
- Water (at least one gallon per person per day for three days)
- Non-perishable food and a can opener
- Battery-powered or hand-crank radio
- Flashlights and extra batteries
- First aid kit and necessary medications
- Personal hygiene items
- Important documents (insurance policies, identification, bank records) in a waterproof container
- Cash and emergency contact information
- Blankets and a change of clothes in a to-go bag
You may also want some Non Essentials handy, such as: Playing cards, Puzzles, or Board Games, to pass the time in the event of a power outage.
4. Secure Your Home
Reinforce Windows and Doors: Install storm shutters or use plywood to protect windows and doors. Ensure garage doors are secure and can withstand strong winds.
Clear Your Yard: Remove loose items from your yard, such as furniture, decorations, and trash cans. These can become hazardous projectiles in high winds.
Trim Trees: Cut back any branches that could potentially damage your home or power lines during the storm.
5. Review Your Insurance Coverage
Policy Review: Review your homeowner’s or tenant’s insurance policy to ensure you have adequate coverage. Overland water insurance is highly recommended, and is a policy add-on. Don’t wait until the last minute to review your policy, as insurance adjustments may not be available once a storm is imminent. Rest assured, if you already have coverage, it will remain active throughout the storm.
Document Valuables: Take photos or videos of your property and valuable items for insurance purposes. Store these records in a safe location.
6. Stay Safe During the Storm
Shelter in Place: If evacuation is not advised, find a safe room in your home away from windows and exterior doors. Interior rooms, closets, or bathrooms on the lower level are generally the safest.
Prepare for Power Outages: Be ready for power outages. Ensure you have backup power sources like generators and know how to operate them safely, with proper ventilation and clearance.
Keep Emergency Contacts Handy: Maintain a list of emergency contacts, including local authorities, medical facilities, and family members.
7. Post-Storm Safety
Wait for Official Updates: If you evacuated, don’t return home until authorities declare it safe. Follow their instructions on re-entry and cleanup.
Avoid Floodwaters: Floodwaters can be contaminated and dangerous. Avoid walking or driving through them.
Inspect Your Home: Once it’s safe to return, carefully assess your home for damage. Document any damage for insurance claims and contact your insurance company as soon as possible. As a homeowner, you are responsible for mitigating any further damage, so take necessary actions like removing water, clearing debris, and installing tarps.
Hurricane preparedness revolves around planning, protection, and staying informed. By following these steps, you can reduce the impact of a hurricane on your life and property. Remember, the key to weathering the storm is preparation.
If you need help reviewing your insurance coverage, don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to help you stay safe and secure.
Categories: Cottage Insurance, Home Insurance