When you live in an area prone to severe weather, having a comprehensive emergency plan is essential. As the peak of the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season approaches, familiarize yourself with the steps you can take to protect your family before, during, and after a storm.
Before a Hurricane:
Hurricanes can be dangerous and unpredictable, and you may need to react quickly once one is projected in your area. Make sure you and your family have an evacuation plan, including where you will go and how you will get there. Sign up for emergency alerts and monitor local weather and news to ensure you get the latest updates as quickly as possible. You may lose power during the storm, so make sure you have a power bank to charge your phone or battery-powered radio to continue receiving updates.
Take the time to gather emergency supplies, including food, water, and medicine. The American Red Cross recommends having at least three days of supplies in an emergency Go-Kit and two weeks of supplies in an emergency Stay-at-Home kit. Collect and safeguard important financial, legal, and medical records along with copies of insurance policies and a household inventory. Visit our Client Center to view your policies, print insurance ID cards, download important documents, and more.
During a Hurricane:
If local officials advise you to evacuate, grab your Go-Kit and listen carefully to instructions. Follow posted evacuation routes, even if there is traffic, as other routes may be blocked or flooded. Remember to never walk, drive, or swim through floodwater. If you have pets, take them with you to prevent them becoming lost or injured.
After a Hurricane:
After a hurricane, check local news stations for the latest updates. If you evacuated, return home only once officials say it is safe to do so. Assess potential damage to the outside of your home and check for loose power lines, gas leaks, and structural damage. Do not enter your home if it is flooded as unseen power lines can electrically charge the water. Use a flashlight when examining the inside of your home to reduce risk of fire and be aware of carbon monoxide. If your home lost power but you are not sure when, it is best to dispose of all refrigerated food and ask your healthcare provider about refrigerated medications.
In the event that your property sustains damage, it is important to reach out to your insurance carrier as soon as possible and before authorizing any repairs. Take pictures to record the damage if it is safe to do so and visit our website to file a claim online. Remember, South Carolina Federal Insurance Solutions advisors are here to answer questions about your homeowners insurance policy and how you can protect your property during hurricane season. Contact us to get more information or compare your policy against other top-rated carriers.
