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Hurricanes can cause major damage. There are a few important things to remember when a storm is approaching:
Many times insurance companies will put moratoriums in place so that new coverages cannot be purchased during natural disasters. A moratorium blocks the insurance market and means that we cannot issue or bind any additional coverages. These moratoriums typically stay in place for days or sometimes weeks, depending on the severity of the storm.
Standard homeowner’s policies do not cover damage caused by flood or hurricane driven water. It is important to understand any limitations your policy may have.
Some flood insurance companies have a 30-day waiting period before newly purchased flood insurance will take effect.
Last minute purchases of flood, wind and boat coverage is often not available during hurricanes. If you have a coverage question or are in the process of purchasing a new asset, we recommend reaching out to our office beforehand to see if coverage can be secured.
The National Hurricane Center will provide updates on the projected track of a Hurricane. This information can be found on the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s website.
According to The National Weather Service the major hazards associated with Hurricanes are as follows: storm surge flooding, inland flooding from heavy rains, destructive winds, tornadoes, and high surf and rip currents.
Storm surge is the abnormal rise of water generated by a storm's winds. Storm surge and large battering waves can cause massive destruction along the coast. Storm surge can travel several miles inland, especially along bays, rivers, and estuaries.
Flooding from heavy rains associated with these storms often cause flooding hundreds of miles inland. This flooding can persist for several days after a storm has dissipated.
Winds from a hurricane can destroy buildings and manufactured homes. Signs, roofing material, and other items left outside can become flying missiles during hurricanes.
Tornadoes can accompany landfalling tropical cyclones. These tornadoes typically occur in rain bands well away from the center of the storm.
Dangerous waves produced by a tropical cyclone's strong winds can pose a significant hazard to coastal residents and mariners. These waves can cause deadly rip currents, significant beach erosion, and damage to structures along the coastline, even when the storm is more than a 1,000 miles offshore.
Here are some helpful tips to keep in mind for keeping you and your family safe while minimizing the risk of damage to your home: BEFORE a storm:
If applicable, make sure all storm shutters are in place and fastened securely.
Lock all windows and doors to aid in strengthening the opening when high winds and debris arrive.
Make sure your garage is locked and bracing is in place if applicable.
Move any items of value that may be located in your basement to higher ground. If you have expensive art, it’s important to have trained professionals move valuable items to help avoid damage.
Move rugs and furnishings away from openings. Elevate them if possible. If a storm surge occurs in coastal areas, water can seep through thresholds and cause damage.
Place towels or blankets in front of doors to help prevent water intrusion if water rises.
Secure outdoor property – these items can become airborne, making them projectiles in high winds; therefore, it’s critical that these items be placed in or moved to a secure location.
Clear all gutters, scuppers and downspouts. Make sure all drains are free of debris.
Test your back-up generator to ensure it is functioning properly.
AFTER a storm:
Continue listening to a NOAA Weather Radio or the local news for the latest updates.
If you evacuated, return home only when officials say it is safe.
Once home, drive only if necessary and avoid flooded roads and washed-out bridges. If you must go out, watch for fallen objects in the road, downed electrical wires, and weakened walls, bridges, roads, and sidewalks that might collapse.
Walk carefully around the outside of your home to check for loose power lines, gas leaks, and structural damage.
Stay out of any building if: you smell gas, floodwaters remain around the building, building or home was damaged by fire, or the authorities have not declared it safe.
Carbon monoxide poisoning is one of the leading causes of death after storms in areas dealing with power outages. Never use a portable generator inside your home or garage.
Use battery-powered flashlights. Do NOT use candles. Turn on your flashlight before entering a vacated building. The battery could produce a spark that could ignite leaking gas, if present.
Please be extra careful if you own a Tesla. There are reports of Teslas spontaneously igniting after Hurricane Ian. Read More Here
*Information provided by the NOAA & National Weather Association.
Our team is ready to assist you in the event you have any questions regarding coverages or if you are impacted by a storm. Contact Our Office via phone: 917-262-5200 or email: ContactUs@theprmspromise.com