Are You "House" Ready for a Hurricane?

4 Steps toward PREPARING YOUR HOME FOR A HURRICANE.


Here are four important steps to consider, according to the Insurance Information Institute:

STEP #1: Review Your Insurance Coverage

Be sure you have the right kind and amount of insurance, enough to rebuild your home and replace your belongings. Ask about flood insurance, which is not covered under a standard homeowners policy. Learn more about flood insurance at www.floodsmart.gov.

STEP #2: Create a Home Inventory

An up-to-date home inventory will speed up the claims process by substantiating losses and may provide documentation for tax purposes.

STEP #3: Protect Your Property

Keeping wind and water out of your home is critical.

STEP #4: Have an Evacuation Plan

Decide where you will go and how you will get there, and have more than one option. Keep a map, phone numbers and addresses handy. Think about what you’ll need to take with you — items like medicines, important documents, clothing and food — and have them ready to go.
 
By Stephanie Andre
RISMEDIA, July 22, 2010