Weather Preparedness

Be Storm Ready

Being proactive and prepared is the best way to protect your home and your family. At Patriot Select, we prioritize your home and family’s safety, especially during hurricane season, which runs from June 1st through November 30th. However, severe weather can strike at any time, and Florida is no stranger to hurricanes, damaging storms, and lightning. By staying prepared and proactive, you can significantly reduce property damage and focus on what matters most: your loved ones.

Important Links-
FEMA, NOAA, Mike’s Weather

Storm

Review Your Homeowners Insurance Policy

  • Is your coverage up to date?
  • Have you made any upgrades or additions to your home?
  • Are you comfortable with your current deductibles?
  • Do you have adequate coverage to repair or replace your home?
  • Are the contents of your home covered? Is it replacement value or actual cash value?
  • Do you have Additional Living Expense (ALE) coverage if your home becomes uninhabitable?
  • Are you covered in the event of a flood? (Note:  floods are not covered by Homeowners insurance, and Federal flood insurance has a 30-day waiting period)

Prepare Your Home

  • Inventory and document the contents of your home.
  • Remove any damaged trees or limbs.
  • Clear yard debris.
  • Secure patio furniture and lawn ornaments.
  • Secure rain gutters and downspouts, and clear any clogged areas.
  • Retrofit and reinforce the roof, windows, and doors to reduce potential damage.
  • Install at least a one-inch deadbolt on doors that extends securely into the stud framing.
  • Reinforce garage doors.
  • Prepare your family for inclement weather and dangerous situations

Make an Evacuation Plan

  • Determine your evacuation zone and route.
  • Consider your pets when planning evacuation routes.
  • Keep your car(s) filled with gas.
  • Maintain an emergency contact list and share your plans with extended family.
  • Store insurance policies and important documents in a waterproof container.
  • Prepare an emergency supply kit.

Watch vs. Warning

“Watch”: Hurricane conditions are possible in the designated area within 36 hours.

“Warning”: Hurricane conditions are expected in the designated area within 24 hours.
Monitor the storm’s progress and heed storm advisories. Track storms at NOAA or through local news stations.

Preparing Your Home for Evacuation

  • Turn off power at the main switch.
  • Shut off water at the main valve.
  • Lock and secure all windows and doors.

After the Storm

  • Do not return home until it is safe.
  • Report downed power lines to the power company.
  • Wait for tap water to be deemed safe before drinking.
  • Discard spoiled food.
  • If your home sustains damage, notify your insurance carrier immediately to start the claims process. Keep records of all repair receipts to submit to your insurance carrier.

At Patriot Select, we’re here to ensure your peace of mind and provide the protection your home and family deserve. Contact us today to learn more about our insurance solutions and how we can help you stay prepared for whatever comes your way.