Stay Ahead of the Storm: Essential Severe Weather Awareness Tips

Understand the Risks

Severe weather can include a range of events such as hurricanes, tornadoes, heavy rains, and floods. Depending on your geographic location, some risks may be more prevalent than others. It’s important to understand the specific hazards your area is prone to so you can prepare accordingly.

Create an Emergency Plan

Every family and business should have an emergency plan. This should include safe evacuation routes, local emergency contacts, and a designated safe room in the house. Ensure all family members or employees know the plan well.

Build an Emergency Kit

Prepare an emergency kit with essentials such as water, non-perishable food, a flashlight, batteries, a first-aid kit, necessary medications, and critical documents in waterproof containers. Remember to check and update your kit every few months.

Fortify Your Home

Minimize potential damage by securing loose objects; reinforcing windows, doors, and roofs; and ensuring your drainage systems are clear to handle heavy rains. Consider investing in shutters or impact-resistant glass.

Stay Informed

Keep track of weather updates through reliable sources. Most regions have alert systems that can notify you of severe weather warnings via text or email. Knowing when to take action is key in preventing last-minute scrambles.

Review Your Insurance Coverage

One of the most crucial steps is to review your insurance policies. Understand what is and isn’t covered in your policies and consider additional coverage for specific disasters like floods, which are typically not covered under standard homeowners insurance.

Document and Photograph Your Property

Before the storm season hits, document your home and belongings with photos or videos. This will be invaluable for insurance claims in case of damage. Keep these records in a safe, accessible place, preferably backed up digitally.

Preparation can significantly reduce the impact of severe weather. By taking these steps, it can help ensure that you, your loved ones, and your property are well-protected. At Griffin Owens Insurance, we’re here to help you understand your coverage options and assist in any way we can before, during, and after the storm.