Reminder: Hurricane Safety Tips

September 29, 2016

Did you know hurricane season continues through the end of November?  According to The Weather Channel website, the statistical peak in the Atlantic Ocean for this year’s hurricane season came on September 10, but there are still two more months left in the season.  Be prepared and refresh your memory on hurricane safety tips.

Take these precautions to protect you and your family from potential storms:

  • Be aware of any incoming severe weather in your area:
    • Check if your local community has an alert system for emergencies, and sign up if available.
      • According to the National Weather Service website, some people will receive Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) automatically if their phones are WEA-capable.  These alerts include extreme weather warnings and local emergencies.  Read more on WEA messages here.
    • Listen to NOAA Weather Radio for continuous information from the National Weather Service.  To find out how, read here.

Follow these tips to prepare your home or business for an incoming storm:

  • Have necessary supplies ready if you lose power and water.  These could include batteries, flashlights, first aid materials, and copies of important documents.  For a more in-depth checklist of supplies, check out the Red Cross website here.
  • Purchase a generator for use during power outages.
  • Trim loose limbs and remove damaged trees susceptible to wind damage.
  • Fill your vehicle with gas.
  • Turn off propane tanks and unplug small appliances.
  • Secure all loose items on the exterior of your home:
    • Tie down or put away any items that could be picked up by wind, i.e. bicycles, lawn chairs, etc.
    • Secure and clear rain gutters / downspouts.
    • Close and board up all windows and doors.

Understand your Coverage

It is important to know that standard homeowners insurance does not cover flooding.  Be prepared for water damage caused by hurricane flooding by visiting the National Flood Insurance Program website at www.FloodSmart.gov.


Resources

weather.com/storms/hurricane/news/hurricane-season-peak-half-over-september-2016

www.ready.gov/hurricanes

www.weather.gov/


This blog entry is created for informational purposes only.  Any viewpoint or sponsorship of outside parties involved in the blog entry does not necessarily represent Goodville's stance as a company.  The blog should not be used as a substitute for professional advice.