The Calm Before the Storm – Hurricane Preparation Tips

Allstate believes preparing in advance of a storm gives homeowners the best chance to minimize risk and start on the road to recovery. Property owners need to keep their drains and sewer lines cleaned to avoid dealing with flooded basement disasters. Understanding your insurance coverage and preparing for the dangers of a hurricane by calling a water damage restoration minneapolis company early can help to minimize property damage and protect your family, says Allstate New York spokesperson Krista Conte. Allstate suggests considering the following steps to help you and your family prepare for a hurricane:

How to help protect yourself and your family in advance of a storm:

• Conduct a home inventory recording each of your possessions. It’s also helpful to keep track of model numbers and stores where items were purchased. Store your inventory, including photos and videos, in a safe place away from your home.
• Develop an evacuation plan that includes identification of safe areas, escape routes, meeting locations and plans for pets.
• Prepare an Emergency Supply Kit including a three-day supply of water, non-perishable food, radio and batteries, flashlight and first-aid kit.
• Remove any diseased and damaged limbs from trees to keep them from blowing around during a storm and causing property or automobile damage.
• Purchase materials such as ¾-inch plywood that can be used to reinforce your windows, doors and garage doors. Install anchors and pre-drill holes for the plywood so you can install them quickly in the event of a storm.
• Install head and foot bolts in doors for extra protection.

Minimize your losses:

• Review your home insurance policy and coverage limits with an agent. Know what you are and are not covered for in the event of a hurricane.
• If you have damaged roof, it is essential to hire a roof contractor for a roof repair service as soon as possible so that water does not seep into your home. If you need roof replacement services, make sure to do it before the rainy season kicks in. Contact this roofing contractor for professional roof replacement services. If fallen trees are the cause of your roof damage, you might also need to contact a Tree Removal service.
• Find out if you have comprehensive auto coverage for damage to your car caused by falling objects or flood. Calling a professional water damage company such as Splendor Flood Damage Restoration is the best way to mitigate the potential damage a flood might do to your property. Before any restoration starts, the company will send their technicians to assess the damage to your property. If you’re wondering whether hiring professional water damage services is worth it or not, see here the following benefits.
• Gather important documents such as insurance policies, birth certificates and identification. Make sure to place them in a waterproof container.

For more information on preparing for catastrophes, visit www.allstate.com/catastrophe.