The Atlantic hurricane season can bring dangerous storms with little warning. The National Weather Service will issue a hurricane warning when sustained winds of 74 mph or higher are expected in a specific area, typically within 24 hours or less. A hurricane watch is issued when there’s a potential for hurricane conditions, usually within 36 hours. During a hurricane watch, it’s important to act quickly to protect your family and property. At South Carolina Federal Insurance Solutions, we understand how vital preparation is and we’re committed to helping you safeguard what matters most. To help you stay prepared in the event of an evacuation, we’ve gathered a few key tips to get you started.
Prepare a Family Disaster Plan
- Don’t wait for an evacuation order – plan ahead and arrange to stay with friends or relatives who live inland or on higher ground.
- Visit Know Your Zone to learn about your area’s evacuation zones. Map out multiple evacuation routes from your home and share these plans with your family.
- Save important contacts into everyone’s phones.
- If you have pets, create a list of pet-friendly hotels or shelters along your evacuation routes.
Build an Emergency Kit
Prepare a kit with essentials that can support your family for at least three days that includes:
- Water (1 gallon per person, per day)
- Nonperishable food items
- First-aid kit
- Flashlight with extra batteries
- Battery-powered radio
- Phone chargers and backup power sources
- Personal hygiene and care items
- Basic tools and supplies
- Important documents (home inventory, list of medications, insurance policies, passports, extra cash, etc.)
- Medications and special items for infants or seniors
Be sure to include essential supplies for your pets, too! Visit the South Carolina Emergency Management Division website for tips and a helpful checklist. Also, consider packing a small bag with personal keepsakes or comfort items that each person would want to bring if case of evacuation.
Prepare Your Home
- If you live in a low-lying, flood-prone area or in a mobile home, assess your risk and begin preparation early.
- Make any necessary repairs to strengthen your home against high winds and heavy rain.
- Install storm shutters or securely fasten plywood over all windows, skylights, and doors.
- Clear your yard of loose objects, trim trees and shrubs, and clean out gutters and drains to prevent blockages and water buildup.
- Take photos of your home – both interior and exterior – in case you need to file an insurance claim.
Prepare Your Vehicle
- Make sure the gas tank is filled and your battery is fully charged.
- Inspect oil levels, windshield wipers, headlights, and tire condition to ensure your vehicle is road-ready.
- Store car chargers for essential electronic devices.
- Take interior and exterior photos of your vehicle in case you need to file an insurance claim.
- If you aren’t evacuating, park your vehicle in a garage or on high ground away from trees and power lines, and use a protective cover.
Prepare Your Boat
- Decide in advance where you’ll store your boat during a storm – preferably out of the water and in a secure location.
- If you plan to evacuate with your boat, securely cover it and remove any loose items that could be damaged or become hazardous in high winds.
- Inspect the trailer and tires to ensure they’re in good condition.
- Take photos of your boat and trailer for insurance documentation.
Remember, possessions can be replaced but you and your family cannot. Coastal storms and hurricanes can bring devastating financial and emotional impacts. The insurance professionals at Insurance Solutions are here to help you prepare and minimize the financial aftermath. Contact us for more information.
