Preparing for a hurricane- and dealing with the aftermath

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• What is a hurricane?
• How can I prepare my home and family for a hurricane?
• What should we do during a hurricane?
• What should I do after a hurricane?
• Is hurricane damage covered under my homeowners insurance policy?

What is a hurricane?

A hurricane is a type of tropical cyclone which generally forms in the tropics. A tropical cyclone starts as a tropical depression which then forms into a tropical storm and finally a hurricane. Hurricane season usually runs from June thru September when the ocean waters are at their warmest. Hurricanes are known for the devastating affects they can have because of their violent winds, incredible waves, torrential rains and floods. They most often affect homeowners in the south and southeast U.S. coasts.

How can I prepare my home and family for a hurricane?

Homeowners that live along the east and southeast coasts of the United States should be cautious of tropical activity in the Atlantic at all times but especially during peak hurricane season. In order to be best prepared:

• Create an evacuation plan and make sure your whole family knows the plan
• Create a Disaster Preparedness Kit with water, food and other important items that you can grab quickly if you have to evacuate
• Have hurricane shutters or window coverings ready to put up in the event a hurricane is supposed to strike in your area
• Keep an extra fuel supply for your automobile in the garage or shed in the event you have to leave quickly and gas stations are either crowded or out of gas in your area

What should we do during a hurricane?

Oftentimes, evacuating to a storm shelter or somewhere away from the coast is your safest bet. However, if you cannot evacuate, make sure you make your home as hurricane-ready as possible by boarding up windows and doors; and keeping all standard flood precautions in mind. Stay inside during the storm and stay away from any windows, skylights, doors or other areas of the home where debris can enter through.

What should I do after a hurricane?

After a hurricane you must take extreme precaution before reentering your home. Flood waters and strong winds can damage your home and make it unsafe to re-enter. Evaluate your home from the outside first and check the roof and wall structures for any signs of serious damage. Only if everything appears to be in good condition should you enter your home. If your home experienced any wind or hail damage during the storm, be sure to contact your homeowners insurance agent to find out about your homeowners insurance coverage.

Is hurricane damage covered under my homeowners insurance policy?

A hurricane is a combination of many different weather conditions including wind, torrential rains, hail and flooding. A standard homeowners insurance policy will typically provide coverage for damage caused by wind and hail, however, flood damage must usually be covered under a separate flood policy. Contact your homeowners insurance agent for more specific information about your coverage in the event of a hurricane in your area.

» Check out the 2011 Hurricane Forecast

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