Living in Florida means enjoying beautiful weather most of the year, but it also means being prepared for hurricane season. At Richard Dean Insurance, we care deeply about your safety and well-being. That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive Hurricane Preparedness Guide to help you and your family stay safe before, during, and after a storm.
Stock Emergency Supplies
Ensuring you have the right supplies can make a significant difference when a hurricane hits. According to Ready.gov here are the essentials for your emergency kit:
Water: 1 gallon per person per day for at least three days.
Nonperishable Foods: At least a three-day supply.
Manual Can Opener: For opening canned foods.
Flashlight and Extra Batteries: For power outages.
Wrench or Pliers: To turn off utilities if needed.
First-Aid Kit: For minor injuries.
Medications: Include glasses and contact lenses.
Personal Hygiene Products: Moist towelettes, toothpaste, etc.
Sleeping Bags: One for each person.
Change of Clothing: At least one complete change per person.
Inverter or Solar Charger: To keep mobile phones charged.
Cash: ATMs might not be working.
NOAA Weather Radio: To stay updated on weather conditions.
Prepare and Protect Your Property
Protecting your home from a hurricane starts long before a tropical weather watch is issued. Here are some steps you can take:
Hurricane Shutters or Plywood Boards: Ensure you have these ready to cover your windows.
Pre-Drilled Holes in Plywood: Keep plywood, screws, ladder, and screwdriver handy.
Trim Trees and Shrubs: Remove weak or dead limbs to prevent them from becoming projectiles.
Build a Safe Room: Consider creating a space in your home that can withstand high winds and flying debris.
Understanding your insurance coverage is crucial. Richard Dean Insurance can help you navigate your policy to understand what is and isn’t covered in the event of a hurricane.
Create a Home Inventory
A home inventory can help you assess your insurance coverage needs and facilitate the claim process if your property is damaged. Use an app like Allstate's mobile app or keep a detailed list that notes each item and its value. Store your inventory off-premises and update it after making significant purchases.
Plan Your Evacuation
If you live in a hurricane-prone area, having an evacuation plan is essential. Here’s what you need to do:
Familiarize Yourself with Alternate Routes: Plan different directions in case of treacherous travel.
Make Transportation Arrangements: If you don’t have a car, talk with family, friends, or local authorities.
Plan for Pets: Decide whether you can take them with you, leave them with someone, or take them to a kennel.
Keep Important Papers Ready: Have a bag or file with essential documents, including your insurance policy.
For more details, check out the Florida Disaster website.
48 Hours Before the Storm
If a hurricane is imminent, follow these last-minute preparations:
Track the Storm: Use http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/ to monitor the storm’s path.
Bring Inside Loose Objects: This includes lawn furniture, decorations, trash cans, and hanging plants.
Set Refrigerator to Coldest Setting: This helps keep food fresh longer during power outages.
Fill Gas Tanks: Ensure all vehicles have at least a half-tank of gas.
State Assistance Information Line
The State Assistance Information Line (SAIL) is a toll-free hotline (1-800-342-3557) providing up-to-date information during emergencies. Use this resource to learn about preparing for, surviving, and recovering from a hurricane.
Make a Family Plan
Planning with your family is critical. Discuss how you will receive alerts, your shelter plan, evacuation routes, and communication strategies. Practice your plan and make sure everyone knows their role.
For families with disabilities or special needs, take extra steps to prepare. Form a personal support network, complete a personal assessment, and create an emergency kit tailored to specific needs.
Useful Links
Alerts: AlertFlorida, Florida Highway Patrol, Ready.gov Alerts
Shelters: Ready.gov Shelter, FloridaDisaster.org Shelter Information
Evacuation: Know Your Zone, Ready.Gov Evacuation
Communications Plan: Ready.gov Make A Plan
Special Needs: Disability Disaster Information
Stay safe and prepared, and remember that Richard Dean Insurance is here to help you weather any storm.
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