If you think hurricanes and tropical storms are getting stronger every year, you are right. The oceans where they are born are warming up and the heat fuels these hurricanes and tropical storms. The stronger they are the more damage they can cause and put people in its path to even greater danger. Despite the ever changing nature of hurricanes, the best practices in hurricane preparation remain constant.
Preparations before a hurricane arrives in Miami
The heavy rain and winds that tropical storms and hurricanes bring can cause damage to buildings, block roads, and knock out power lines. A safety plan is essential for people with certain conditions, especially those who require medication.
Preparing for a hurricane in Miami is more than storing a few gallons of water in the pantry and hoping for the best. Start preparing early to avoid being caught unprepared.
Ensure you have the right insurance
The best thing to do first is to read over your homeowner’s insurance policy ahead of hurricane season to know what it covers and what it doesn’t in terms of hurricane damage in Miami. If you are unsure or having difficulty understanding the policy, it is a good idea to consult an experienced public adjuster in Miami. A public adjuster will protect your interest and make sure you recieve the right amount for your hurricane damage claims.
It is important to keep in mind that once the approaching hurricane has been deemed a threat, it is almost impossible for you to change it. Also, most homeowners insurance policies don’t include flood damage insurance. This coverage must be purchased separately. You should also keep in mind that hurricane wind damage will be subject to your deductible.
Prepare an evacuation plan before the hurricane arrives
A hurricane evacuation plan should be made before the storm actually occurs. You can stay calm and composed if you act early, rather than making emotional decisions based on fear which can lead to mistakes and at worst putting your life and your loved ones in the path of danger.
Be sure your evacuation plan includes the following:
- A safe evacuation route. If you have to evacuate, purchase a paper map in case digital communications fail or your smartphone battery runs out and there is power interruption.
- Accommodations should be arranged. If necessary, you can stay with family or friends who do not live in the danger zone and make a fallback arrangement with a shelter in case of emergency.
- When should you evacuate? Some people may want to evacuate sooner to make sure they have enough time to get to their destination. It’s fine to wait for official channels to issue an evacuation order, but some people may not want to wait especially those with elderly or special needs.
Prepare emergency supplies
It is crucial to have the following handy:
- Canned foods and water that can last for a week or two.
- Candles and emergency light with extra batteries.
- First-aid kit
- Disinfecting wipes
- Garbage bags
- Important tools such as knives, wrenches and pliers.
- Local map
Brace your home and prepare for flood waters
Hurricane damage in Miami caused by flooding is the most expensive and common type, so it’s important to take steps to protect your home and belongings from flooding. So it’s crucial to keep important documents and valuables stored in waterproof containers in a higher level away from the flood prone level of your home.
What to do after the storm
A storm can still cause severe hurricane damage in Miami even if you prepare perfectly for it. There is no getting around that.
As soon as the storm passes, you’ll have to deal with the challenges of recovery and regaining your normal life. Below are some tips for getting back to normal as quickly as possible.
If you don’t hear an official okay, don’t return. Wait until the authorities say it is safe to return if you evacuated.
Stay away from flood waters. Avoid wading through floodwaters, which may contain debris and downed power lines, whether you sheltered in place or evacuated.
Be careful what you eat and drink. Make sure tap water is safe before drinking it. Foods that are warm for more than two hours in the refrigerator should not be eaten.
Talk to an experienced public adjuster in Miami. The public adjuster will help you with processing the hurricane damage claims in Miami and make sure you get the maximum amount from your insurance provider. You’ll be able to repair your home faster if you do this soon.
Contact Alconero Public Adjusters who service the areas of Miami, FL, Fort Lauderdale, FL, Palm Beach, FL, for a FREE inspection at 855-642-5246.
