8 ways to minimize damage after a hurricane
The howling winds and torrential rain has died down. But just because the hurricane has passed doesn’t mean you’re in the clear yet. With the danger of dangling power lines, fallen trees, flooding and more, you’ll want to keep these 8 things in mind when safely returning to your home or assessing it for damage.
-
Check your power lines
Beware of loose or dangling power lines and report them immediately to the proper authorities. If you see a power line that’s down, move away from it and beware of any water or other objects touching the lines.
-
Don’t use your water
Use your emergency supply of water or boil water before drinking until officials have given word that it’s safe.
-
Operate a generator safely
If you’ve lost power, make sure to operate your generator outside your home in a well-ventilated area. Do not operate generators or gas, propane or charcoal grills indoors or near your home’s ventilation areas.
-
Protect the exterior
If your home has sustained damage, cover the roof with tarps and your windows with plywood if it is safe for you to do so.
-
Clean items left indoors
Dust items with a soft brush and wipe metal objects with a soft, lint-free cloth.
-
Assess interior damage
If you have wet or damaged artwork, blot off excess moisture, remove wet backings, mats and frames and keep them in an air-conditioned room. Take pictures of any damage and contact professionals for assistance.
-
Inspect your car
Wash any debris from your car and take photos of any damage.
-
Use caution while driving
Be aware of fallen power lines, debris on the road, missing signs, or broken traffic lights. Be cautious of any moving water before driving through it, and make sure you have a spare tire.
What to do if you suffer damage
If you’re a Chubb policyholder and you suffered damage from a hurricane or severe storm, we’ll work quickly to make your home whole again. Click here to begin the claims process.
This document is advisory in nature and is offered as a resource to be used together with your professional insurance advisors in maintaining a loss prevention program. It is an overview only, and is not intended as a substitute for consultation with your insurance broker, or for legal, engineering or other professional advice.
Chubb is the marketing name used to refer to subsidiaries of Chubb Limited providing insurance and related services. For a list of these subsidiaries, please visit our website at www.chubb.com. Insurance provided by ACE American Insurance Company and its U.S. based Chubb underwriting company affiliates. All products may not be available in all states. This communication contains product summaries only. Coverage is subject to the language of the policies as actually issued. Surplus lines insurance sold only through licensed surplus lines producers. Chubb, 202 Hall's Mill Road, Whitehouse Station, NJ 08889-1600.
Find an Agent
Speak to an independent agent about your insurance needs.