Before a Hurricane
To prepare for a hurricane, you should take the following measures:
To begin preparing, you should have an emergency kit (food, water, supplies, etc.)
- Educate yourself on the elevation level of your property and whether the land is flood-prone. This will help you know how your property will be affected when storm surge or tidal flooding are forecasted.
- Make plans to secure your property.
- Cover all of your home’s windows. Permanent storm shutters offer the best protection for windows. If you do not have shutters, another option is to board up windows with 5/8” exterior grade or marine plywood, cut to fit and ready to install.
- Install straps or additional clips to securely fasten your roof to the frame structure. This will reduce roof damage.
- Be sure trees and shrubs around your home are well trimmed so they are more wind resistant.
- Clear loose and clogged rain gutters and downspouts.
- Reinforce your garage doors; if wind enters a garage it can cause dangerous and expensive structural damage.
- Plan to bring in all outdoor furniture, decorations, garbage cans and anything else that is not tied down.
- If in a high-rise building, when high winds are present, be prepared to take shelter on a lower floor because wind conditions increase with height, and in a small interior room without windows. When flooding may be occurring, be prepared to take shelter on a floor safely above the flooding and wave effects.
During a Hurricane
If a hurricane is likely in your area, you should:
- Listen to the radio or TV for information.
- Secure your home, close storm shutters and secure outdoor objects or bring them indoors.
- Turn off utilities if instructed to do so. Otherwise, turn the refrigerator thermostat to its coldest setting and keep its doors closed.
- Turn off propane tanks.
- Avoid using the phone, except for serious emergencies.
- Ensure a supply of water for sanitary purpose such as cleaning and flushing toilets. Fill the bathtub and other larger containers with water.
Hurricane season in South Florida is right around the corner. It is important that you take these measures to ensure your home and family are safe. In the unfortunate event that your home or business does suffer hurricane damage, Cohen & Associates Public Adjusters are here to help. We will fight for you and make sure you get exactly what you are entitled to: a fair maximum settlement.
