Experts are predicting an “extremely active” hurricane season. Some forecasts estimate 24 named storms, including (potentially) 5 major hurricanes.
The question is: Are you storm ready if a hurricane heads your way? Read on for 4 ways to ensure you have everything you need to keep your family and home safe.
1. How Will You Protect Your Home?
Related: Download Our Hurricane Guide
Are you a year-round resident? Families who live in coastal areas year-round definitely need to be storm ready and should consider the following. Annually, ensure your impact windows and doors have been maintained and are storm-ready. If you are out of town during hurricane season, make arrangements for someone local to prepare your property if a storm strikes. It is imperative to remove all objects (outdoor furniture, potted plants, etc.) that could become airborne and secure them indoors.
2. Do You Have an Evacuation Plan?
Sit down with your family and create a detailed plan to use in the event of a storm.
• Where will you go if you need to evacuate?
• What will you do with your pets?
You’ll also want a detailed plan of what to do if you decide to stay home. Ensure your home is adequately protected, and you have all the supplies you’ll need for the aftermath.
3. Do You Understand Storm Categories & Warnings?
Related: CGI Products and Severe Weather Events
Most recently, 2017’s Hurricane Harvey was one of the most destructive in US history, with over $125 billion in damage.
Even a tropical storm can cause severe damage from wind, flooding, and storm surge. If you’re not already familiar with the Saffir-Simpson scale, it’s time to get acquainted.
And while you are brushing up on your knowledge, do you know the difference between a Hurricane Watch and a Hurricane Warning? A watch means hurricane conditions are possible within 48 hours, while a warning means you can expect hurricane conditions within 36 hours.
4. Are You Prepared for the Biggest Risks?
It’s scary to think about high winds, but that’s not always the most dangerous part of a hurricane.
Statistics show, 88% of fatalities from hurricanes come from water, not wind. Along the shore, the storm surge pushes a massive wave of water into coastal communities. Further inland, flooding often causes more damage and injuries than high winds.
Related: Hurricane Season Home Preparation
Start preparing now by ensuring your windows and doors are properly weather-stripped and caulked. Check your homeowner’s policy to confirm flood insurance inclusion—if not, make sure to add it. Also, photograph or video your personal property to make insurance claims easier to file.
Hurricane Season 2020: Are You Storm Ready?
Whether this year’s hurricane season breaks records or passes quietly, it is up to you to prepare your home and family.
If these tips revealed a few areas of improvement to make, do not delay. Take action today to ensure you are ready for the rest of the season. Are you looking for more in-depth information on getting ready for a storm? Download our free 2020 Hurricane Guide to use in your preparations.