When it comes to protecting what matters most, FedNat Insurance Company wants to use its 30+ years of safeguarding experience to remind homeowners how they can best be prepared for the unpredictability of hurricane season in Florida.
1. Review your insurance policy
Discuss your policy with your insurance agent to make sure you understand what is covered and how much your deductible is. Flood insurance is a separate policy and typically has a 30-day waiting period, so don’t wait for a storm to develop before you seek to obtain coverage.
2. Create a disaster supply kit
The kit should include items such as flashlights, batteries, cash, first aid supplies, sunscreen, bug repellent, trash bags, medicine, chargers, water and non-perishable food.
3. Develop emergency plans
Map evacuation routes and set up family communication plans. Remember that phone service might not be available, so think of other ways of communicating such as email, social media or texting. Include pets in your plans. Store insurance information and other important documents (such as passports) in an easily accessible location and on the cloud.
4. Conduct a home inventory
Create a paper or digital inventory of your home’s contents. Include photos or videos of your home and belongings along with receipts, descriptions and estimated values.
5. Prepare your home
Keep tree limbs trimmed away from your roof, so large branches don’t fall and damage your home. Be prepared to fortify your doors, windows, roof and other vulnerable points with protective devices and have extra parts for hurricane shutters and other storm-proofing tools on hand. Remove any debris or items from your yard that could become projectiles in a storm.
6. Stay connected
Consider downloading weather-monitoring apps and subscribing to your local community’s wireless emergency alerts. Listen to local officials for updates and instructions.