The Restoration Team

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Hurricane Season Starts June 1

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Today, June 1st, is the start of the Atlantic Hurricane Season, and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is predicting a busier-than-usual season this year. We are anticipating 14-21 named storms, 6-10 hurricanes, and 3-6 that could possibly be a Category 3 or higher.

As we enter into this season of uncertainty and disaster, it is important to have a plan and make sure your home is prepared for the worst. Here are a few basic ways to get ahead of the curve before it’s too late:

Insurance

  • Make sure you know what your homeowner’s insurance covers

    • How basic is your coverage? Plans typically run from HO1 (most basic) to HO3 (most comprehensive)

    • Does your policy cover “replacement value” (replacing a lost product with a new one) or “cash value” cash for a depreciated asset

  • Policies take 30 days to go into effect so get ahead of it!

  • Get a full inventory of what is in your home - a helpful tip is to take a video walking through the entire home

  • Make sure you know what your deductible is. Although 1-3% does not sound like a lot, it may be

  • If you are renting, make sure to get a renter’s policy

Flood/Windstorm Insurance

  • Flood, windstorm, and homeowner’s insurance are NOT the same thing

  • You can find flood insurance policies through either private insurance companies or possibly through the National Flood Insurance Program (ran by FEMA).

  • If you live in certain Gulf Coast counties, you may be eligible for the Texas Windstorm Insurance Association

  • Revisit your coverage because inflation will change how far your insurance dollars will go

Your Home

  • Keep up with basic maintenance - homes with even minor disrepair can be more susceptible to storm damage

  • Consider getting your roof inspected

  • Clean out gutters so rain doesn’t seep behind your exterior roof fascia

  • Caulk all exterior windows to keep water out (plus it’s more energy efficient!)

  • If you would like to learn basic home repair skills, consider volunteering with The Restoration Team’s home repair program!

Trim Trees

  • Trim your trees to keep heavy limbs from falling on your (or a neighbor’s) home during a storm

  • Pruning internal branches help heavy winds pass through a tree rather than push against it

Stock Up on Supplies

  • Water (at least one gallon per person per day for several days)

  • Nonperishable food

  • Flashlights

  • Batteries

  • Battery-powered or hand-crank radio

  • First aid kit

  • Whistle (to signal for help)

  • Dust mask

  • Plastic sheeting/duct tape (to shelter in place)

  • Moist towlettes

  • Garbage bags

  • Wrench or pliers (to turn off utilities)

  • Manual can opener

  • Local maps

  • Cell phone (charged)

  • Gas Generator

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