Hurricane safety tips and resources for individuals

Hurricanes can bring significant wind, rain and coastal storm surges which may lead to flooding and property damage. We are here to help you get back to business should you need to file a claim.

Here are some tips to help you prepare for the storm and keep your employees and property safe. Please follow local emergency personnel evacuation plans and routes to take.
 

Before the storm

1. Shut doors and tape windows and glass doors. Use storm shutters or plywood nailed to window frames to protect windows.
2. Close all interior doors to help reduce wind damage.
3. Move items inside (bikes, furniture) as they may blow around during the storm and cause damage. Do not store gas-powered articles inside your home; secure them outside.
4. Fill your car and generator with gas and keep extra fuel handy in approved containers and in a safe location.
5. Park your car in the garage.
6. Prepare your emergency kit and emergency plan.

During the storm

1. Stay indoors and keep away from windows. Move to an interior room if possible.
2. Listen to weather updates. Have a battery-operated radio handy in the event of a power outage.
3. Wait to go outside until there is confirmation that the storm is no longer a threat to your area.
4. Keep your refrigerator doors closed to keep food as cold as possible and prevent thawing in case the power goes out.

After the storm

1. Inspect gas, electrical and water lines for damage. Look for structural damage such as foundation cracks.
2. Document any property damage with photos and videos and save receipts for immediate repairs made to prevent further damage.
3. Stay out of damaged buildings until it is safe to do so.
4. Avoid touching power lines and assume all downed power lines are live.
5. Log all post-event clean-up efforts and expenses.
6. If there is flooding: 
   • Clean up pools of water.
   • Dry damp areas to prevent mold and mildew.
   • Move damp items outdoors when safe to prevent mold growth.
   • Move items away from damp areas.

Be sure to notify our claims team immediately if there is damage and protect the property while mitigating any future risk.

Weather resource center