Hurricane Disaster Tips

Make a written or videotaped inventory of household possessions/property and store in a safe place with insurance policies, documents and other valuables.

Identify evacuation locations.

Keep telephone numbers and road maps handy.

Listen to local radio and TV stations for evacuation instructions.

Take a first aid class from your local Red Cross chapter.

Assemble a disaster supplies kit including:  first aid kit, essential medications, canned food, can opener, at least three gallons of water per person, protective clothing, rainwear, sleeping bags, battery-powered radio, flashlight, extra batteries, special items for infants, the elderly and the disabled and written instructions for how to turn off gas and water if so advised.

Install hurricane shutters or precut 3/4" marine plywood for each window of your home.

Make trees more wind resistant by removing diseased or damaged limbs, then strategically removing branches so that wind can blow through.

Fill your car's gas tank.

Re-check manufactured home tie-downs.

Be alert for tornadoes.

Stay away from flood waters.

Call your independent insurance agent as soon as possible.

Make temporary repairs to prevent further damage.

Delay permanent repairs until you speak with your adjuster.

Get any necessary construction permits from your community.

Keep all receipts.

Prepare an inventory of all damaged or destroyed personal property.

Take photos of damaged areas.

Save remnants of damaged or destroyed property for your insurance company adjuster.

Meet with your adjuster first, before signing anything with contractors.