April 28, 2023 | Hurricane
Stay Ahead of the Storm: 5 Steps for Hurricane Preparedness
Atlantic Hurricane Season starts June 1 and ends November 30. ICAT aims to help ensure you are prepared for disasters. We have compiled five helpful tips for hurricane readiness.
Step 1. Identify your risk factors.
Hurricanes are a powerful and destructive natural phenomenon that can cause significant damage. It is crucial to understand your risk factors and take necessary precautions to protect your assets to keep everyone and your property safe.
Before hurricane season begins, check early hurricane season predictions, evaluate your property, and make necessary repairs to the property in advance.
Step 2. Evaluate your coverage.
Take the time to review the details of your insurance coverage and make sure it meets your needs. Contact your insurance agent to understand your current coverage and discuss ICAT’s comprehensive plans.
Tip: Create and maintain an inventory list of all the items in your home, and don’t forget to include photos. This can help you better understand the level of coverage you require and be helpful if you need to file a claim.
Step 3. Make a safety plan for your home and/or business.
Take the time to create a comprehensive safety plan that includes evacuation routes and protocols to help you stay calm and prepared during a hurricane. Discuss with your family or colleagues where you will go if your home or business is under mandatory evacuation before a hurricane. Remember to include your pets in your emergency planning: see our emergency pet plan blog.
Tip: Before a disaster event, research and locate your state’s emergency management agencies and offices and subscribe to emergency updates. Find your state’s emergency management information.
Step 4. Create your own survival kit.
Gather essential items such as water, non-perishable food, batteries, battery chargers, flashlights, first-aid kits, and personal items like medications, contact lenses, etc. Stocking up on these items before storm season begins is essential, as stores tend to run out of supplies quickly once a hurricane approaches. Also, consider filling up spare gas cans in case gas stations run out of fuel.
Tip: Check out this list of items you may want to include in your emergency kit.
Step 5. Protect your home or business from the inside out.
Inside: Check for any valuable items and electronics in your basement or ground floor that you can store at a higher level. Store important documents or family photographs in a waterproof container. Ensure your emergency supplies are easily accessible and fully stocked.
Outside: Perform routine maintenance checks to clear out any potential outdoor hazards. Trim trees, clean your gutters, remove debris, and clear drains. Be sure to secure all outdoor objects or move them inside. If you have a generator, make sure the gas tank is full. Do not run your generator inside the home. Click here for generator safety tips.
For more information on hurricane preparedness visit our Hurricane Preparedness website.