Severe weather safety tips

18 May Severe weather safety tips

Even though April came in like a lion, it certainly did not leave like a lamb.

Heavy rains have carried over well into May making everyone wonder what the weather gods have in store for us this hurricane season.   As we are in the middle of Hurricane Preparedness Week, now is a great time to give you some tips on how to protect yourself, your loved ones, and your belongings when severe weather is in the forecast.

• First things first, call to make sure you have enough insurance to financially protect you in the event of storm damage. Remember, standard homeowner’s insurance does NOT cover flood damage.  You will need a separate flood insurance policy in order to have coverage for flooding.  Call us for a quote on a flood insurance policy.
• Set up an evacuation plan and run some drills with everyone living in your home. Make sure you have a meeting place in case anyone gets separated.  If the authorities ask for evacuation, be sure you do it.  Staying in your home puts emergency workers at risk as well as yourself.
• Set up an emergency kit for your home including first aid supplies, non-perishable foods, water, flashlights, radio, batteries and whatever else you may need. If you or a loved one takes prescription medication, have some on hand to add to the kit as well.
• Make sure your home or business location can withstand high winds. If you can, have window coverings available that can be put up when a storm is on its way.
• Keep trees and shrubberies trimmed as to not be a danger to your home or property.
• Have a place available on high ground to move important items like documents, electronics, etc.
• Right before a storm, secure all loose outdoor articles such as lawn furniture, flags, hanging plants, etc.
• Move your vehicle to higher ground if possible.

These tips and more can be found on the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s website www.noaa.gov.