Hurricanes And Storms Are Always Dangerous
Top weather forecasts predict just 11 named storms this season with just five becoming hurricanes. If those predictions are correct, we’re looking at a second year of weak hurricane seasons, something we’d welcome.
Don’t let these low numbers fool you though. Every storm requires you to take preventative measures. No matter how weak, every storm and every season brings significant risks.
Hope For The Best, Prepare For The Worst
If the weak forecast makes you relax, don’t forget what happened last year when storms made landfall.
In 2013, we had two hurricanes despite predictions of at least seven. The two were the lowest number since 1994. Not only did forecasters get it wrong, but Tropical Storm Andrea hit Florida and killed four people while also spawning 10 tornadoes. The localized flooding and wind did significant damage to homes in Florida and South Carolina.
Here in Florida, we’re subject to around 40% of the hurricanes that hit the United States. That alone is a great reason to get prepared for this hurricane season just like every hurricane season. This means you need to build your hurricane preparedness kit to keep everyone safe at home.
You also need to take care of your home and family by preparing your storm shutters, sandbags and gathering emergency lights and first aid kits. One of our favorite tips is to mow your lawn regularly throughout the hurricane season.
Keeping your grasses short will help you notice and remove any debris that can be thrown about by a storm and damage your home or property. Low-cut grass also makes it easy to spot stray animals, snakes and other hazards that are common after a storm hits.
Cutting your grass will also allow you to move more easily around your home when you return after an evacuation. You can clearly assess damage and spot objects that may have fallen off of your house or blown into your yard.
Assess Your Risk
You’re at risk every time a hurricane or flood is predicted to strike your area. This means you need to gather your supplies and get ready with every announcement.
Part of getting ready is making sure that you have the right homeowner’s and flood insurance products. Always remember that your homeowner’s insurance won’t cover flood damage and that extra flood coverage is essential to any hurricane season plan.
Just a few inches of water from a flood can cause tens of thousands of dollars in damage. Over the past 10 years, the average flood claim has amounted to over $33,000. Flood insurance is the best way to protect you from devastating financial loss.
Flood insurance is not covered by your homeowner’s insurance policy and must be purchased separately. Call People’s Trust Insurance today to discuss your Flood Insurance needs: 1-866-972-1547. There is a 30-day wait on most new policies, so act before it’s too late.