Though hurricane season happens every year, many homeowners still find themselves under-prepared when the warnings for a new storm first start. Scrambling to find plywood and bottled water at the last second can be a major headache. Plus, failing to prepare means your home and family are not as safe as they could have been had you prepared in advance.
There are several steps you can take long before the storm, like installing impact resistant windows West Palm Beach, that will help protect your home and your family. Follow these three crucial steps to ensure your home is prepared and you can quickly bounce back after a storm.
1. Gather Emergency Supplies
Keeping a three-day supply of fresh water and non-perishable foods is important for helping your family get through long stretches of power outages. Also consider purchasing flashlights, extra batteries, a portable weather radio, candles, and matches. These types of things are often difficult to find in the days before a storm, so stock up in advance if you can.
2. Know Your Insurance Policies
Many people forget that homeowners insurance policies don’t cover certain types of damage. If your home is in an area that’s prone to flooding during a hurricane and you don’t have flood insurance, you could face a large repair bill after the storm. Double-check your coverage as soon as possible to make sure you’re ready.
3. Protect Your Home
While insurance can help pay for repairs following the storm, you should still take steps to protect your home and reduce the chance of severe damage while you can. Consider installing impact-resistant doors and windows, trimming unsafe branches from trees, and securing outdoor furniture or grills indoors.
By taking the above steps to prepare well in advance, you can save yourself from major headaches before and after the storm.
