Hurricane Preparedness in Florida

Hurricanes are terrifying and potentially devastating natural disasters. These severe tropical storms typically bring torrential rainfall and powerful winds, often leading to significant property damage and financial losses. Property owners need to prepare for hurricane season to help mitigate potential losses properly.

Best Hurricane Preparedness List

Use the following non-exhaustive list to help prepare for hurricane season:

• Gather emergency supplies. Store water in plastic containers (such as soft drink bottles) and aim for at least one gallon of water per person per day. Stock up on nonperishable food items, such as canned foods.
• Assemble a first-aid kit. The kit should include adhesive bandages, sterile dressings, gauze pads, antiseptic wipes, gloves and nonprescription medication, such as pain relievers and antacids.
• Obtain emergency power sources and tools. Equip yourself with battery-powered weather radios, flashlights and batteries. Keep a cell phone with a charging cord and a fully charged power bank. Jot down a list of family and emergency contacts on paper in case you must borrow someone else’s phone.
• Put together important documents. Put essential documents in a fireproof and waterproof storage box. This should include medical information, proof of address, deeds/leases, passports, insurance policies, and extra cash.
• Review your insurance policies well in advance. Review your homeowners insurance policy to ensure it covers hurricane-related damages. Consider flood insurance, as standard homeowners insurance typically doesn’t cover flood damage. Many flood policies take 30 days to become effective, so don’t wait to inquire about this coverage.
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What Insurance Should Florida Homeowners Have to Prepare for Hurricanes?

The following are essential insurance considerations for Floridians:

• Homeowners insurance can assist in covering damage to your property, personal belongings and other structures based on your policy. If you reside in an area prone to hurricanes, you may have a hurricane deductible that would apply to specific property damage caused by hurricanes.
• Flood insurance is often necessary to cover damage caused by flooding after a hurricane, which is generally not included in a standard homeowners policy. This coverage is essential to safeguard against any flood-related damage caused by hurricanes.
• Windstorm insurance is a type of coverage designed to financially protect against damage caused by strong winds, including those during hurricanes.

Hurricane Insurance in Zephyrhills, FL

Contact Gene Smith Insurance to review your insurance policies to ensure you are adequately prepared for hurricane season.