July 7th, 2010, 13:35 hrs.
Hurricane season is here – are you ready?
Preparation coupled with the right insurance coverage can protect your property.
Prior to the storm
•Have disaster supplies on hand
-Flashlights and batteries
-Portable, battery-operated radio
-Emergency food and water
-Essential medicines and first aid kit
-Cash and credit cards
•Develop a family communication plan
-If you must evacuate – determine and communicate a safe evacuation route and places to meet.
-If at home – discuss the type of hazards that could affect your family and the safest area in your home for each storm hazard.
-Discuss how and when to turn off utilities and how and when to call 911.
•Trim back dead or weak trees and tree branches
•Check your homeowners insurance coverage
-Review your homeowners coverage limits
•Dwelling value
•Other structures
•Contents
•Additional living expense
-Beware of coverage issues
•High hurricane deductibles – hurricane deductibles are normally 2% of the dwelling value.
•Trees are not covered for windstorm when structures are not damaged. Coverage is provided for removal from the damaged property.
•Interior damage caused by wind driven rain is not covered by most companies.
•The coverage limit for other structures on the property is 2% of the dwelling value for many companies.
•Additional living expense is provided when there is direct damage to the insured property or direct damage to a neighboring property if ordered to evacuate.
•Flood damage is not covered by homeowners insurance. It is a separate policy.
•Coverage for screened pool enclosures is sometimes limited or excluded for hurricane losses.
During a hurricane watch – issued within 24-36 hours of a threat of hurricane conditions
•Fuel car
•Protect your windows
•Bring in outdoor property in the open such as furniture, toys, and tools.
•Listen to hurricane progress reports
•Secure boat and trailers to the ground or the house
During a hurricane warning – issued when winds are 74 MPH or greater and expected in 24 hours or less
•Stay inside, away from windows, doors, and skylights
•Use flashlights and avoid open flames
•Listen to hurricane progress reports
•Occupy the safe area in your home
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