Are You Ready For Hurricane Season?

It's hard to believe, but the 2021 hurricane season is nearly here! Hurricanes are one of the few natural disasters that give us a small window of opportunity to prepare for their arrival, and get out of their path if needed. Instead of waiting until a storm is bearing down, take some time now to make sure that your home and family are prepared in the event that a hurricane is headed your way.

Know Your Zone:

Do you live in a mandatory evacuation zone? Do you know if your home is located in a flood zone? Knowing this information can help you make educated decisions about what your family's plan should be during a hurricane. Check out the Floridadisaster.org link to their Know Your Zone map for updated information on flood and evacuation zones. 

https://www.floridadisaster.org/planprepare/know-your-zone-know-your-home/

Have a Pet Plan:

If you are a pet owner, having a plan for your pets in the event you have to evacuate is important. Many evacuation shelters do not allow pets so make arrangements in advance for somewhere to go that will allow you and your fur babies stay should you have to leave. Include your pet supplies in your disaster supply kit and make sure you have any medications that your pet needs.

Make a Disaster Supply Kit:

Having supplies ready before a storm is coming is just smart. We've all seen (and probably stood in) long grocery store lines when it looks like you're in the path of a hurricane. Having a disaster supply kit ready in advance can cut your last minute supply runs down to a minimum, and using a checklist like the one shown here can make putting your kit together easy.

Do You Need Flood Insurance:

Did you know that flood damage is the most common and damaging natural disaster in the U.S.? And where there is rain, there can be floods! So do you need flood insurance? Most insurance policies do not cover flood damage, so if you haven't added a specific flood policy, chances are good that you don't have coverage. We recommend that you contact your insurance provider and ask about flood insurance coverage and visit the National Flood Insurance Program website at  https://www.floodsmart.gov/ for more information about insurance options and risk level maps.

Whether you live next to the water or miles inland, knowing your zone, being prepared and having a plan could possibly save your life! June 1st will be here before you know it, don't wait to be ready!