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Preparing for Severe Storms and Dangerous Weather
While no one can gauge the severity of a storm before it strikes, there
are steps you can take to reduce its impact on your property. Here are
some prevention tips based on years of industry data about the damage
caused by severe storms:
Warning or Watch?
A storm watch from the local or national weather bureau means there is a
chance that a hurricane, tornado or thunderstorm may occur in a given territory.
In contrast, a storm warning means that storm activity has already been
reported in the area. In either situation, it's important to take the necessary
safety measures:
During a Storm Watch…
- Stay tuned to your local radio or TV station.
- Fill fuel tank in car.
- Secure watercraft.
- Maintain a supply of canned goods.
- Refill prescription medicine.
- Make sure radios and flashlights have fresh batteries and keep spare
batteries at hand.
- Secure lawn furniture.
- Tape, board or shutter windows and doors.
- Clear rain gutters and down spouts.
During a Storm Warning…
- Stay tuned to your local radio or TV station.
- Move valuables to upper floors.
- Fill bathtub; fill containers with drinking water.
- Turn up refrigerator to maximum cold and open only when necessary.
- Fill coolers with ice.
- Use phone for emergency calls only.
- Stay indoors and away from windows.
- Unplug non-essential appliances.
During an Evacuation…
- Shut off water and electricity at mains.
- If possible, bring important papers and essential valuables with you.
- Lock the house.
- Follow evacuation procedures.
- Listen to the car radio during evacuation.
After the Storm…
- Check for gas leaks upon returning home.
- Report utility damage.
- Discard spoiled food and water.
If the Event of a Loss…
- Take steps to control the damage.
- Move property out of harm's way.
- Contact your independent insurance agent or broker to report the loss.
This information is advisory in nature. No liability is assumed by reason of the information in this document.
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