Post-Hurricane Action List

You worked hard getting ready for the hurricane. You stocked up on supplies, deployed your hurricane shutters, even made sure you had extra batteries for your flashlights. But now that the hurricane is over, what do you do next?We’ve put together a list of what you should do, and a few things you shouldn’t do, when the storm is over.

1. Tune into your local news stations just in case there are specific instructions you need to hear.
2. Contact your friends and family to let them know you’re okay. Texting and social media are a great way to do this if you have full service on your phone, but make sure you conserve your phone battery until you know for sure you’re in the clear.
3. Did you evacuate for the storm? Stay put until you have the all clear from the proper authorities to return to your home.
4. Avoid flood waters if possible, especially if there’s a current, and do not allow children to play in the flood waters.
5. If you have access to your car, use caution when driving and do not drive through flood waters. All it takes is as little as 1 foot of water with a swift current to sweep your car away.
6. As with any severe storm, be careful around downed powerlines. When combined with water or flooding, this could be a recipe for disaster!  Report these downed powerlines to your local electric company if they have not yet been reported.
7. Keep children and pets away from debris. If cleaning up debris, please make sure you are handling it with caution.  Many injuries are reported from improper cleanup of debris.
8. Before you start the cleanup process, make sure you take pictures of any damage to your property, for insurance purposes.
9. Take precautions when cleaning your home after the storm by wearing protective gear such as rubber gloves. It is very common for chemicals to leak when you experience water damage or flooding in your home.
10. To avoid further damage, make temporary fixes if you can. Such as putting a tarp on your roof or taping up broken windows.
11. Clean out your refrigerator of any spoiled food.
12. Keep your eye on the weather. You may have more rain on the way.

Now is the time to get to work, especially if you experienced any real damage. But if your neighborhood is unsafe, or if you are experiencing flooding, please avoid exploring your area. We understand you may need to venture out to check on loved ones, especially if you cannot reach them, but please only venture out if it’s an emergency and you know for sure you will be safe.To learn how to minimize damage to your home from the next hurricane, contact us today! We will let you know what your options are and provide you with a free quote.