Are You Ready for Hurricane Season?

Start by taking stock of what you own. Walk through your home and document your belongings with photos or video. This inventory can make a real difference when filing an insurance claim or seeking tax deductions for losses. Store your inventory list, medical records, and key insurance documents in a waterproof container or a safe deposit box. SECU offers safe deposit boxes at most branches.¹ Contact your local branch if you need one.

Next, review your current insurance policies. Make sure you have adequate coverage for both wind and flood damage. Homeowners insurance does not usually cover flood damage. Typically, you will need a dedicated flood insurance policy to cover flood losses — either through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or private flood insurance. Keep in mind that flood insurance coverage may have a waiting period after purchase, so don't wait until a storm is in the forecast.

Need help reviewing your coverage options? Find an SECU insurance specialist or call (833) 599-7328 to get started.²

Emergency response can be delayed after a severe storm. Having a kit ready now can help your family stay safe and self-sufficient while help is on the way. Store enough supplies for three to seven days for each person and pet, and make sure every family member knows where the kit is kept.

Your kit should include:

• Water - one gallon per person per day for up to two weeks
• Non-perishable food - two-week supply
• First aid kit, flashlight, and extra batteries
• Prescription medications, glasses, toiletries, and personal hygiene items
• Battery-powered or hand-crank radio (with NOAA weather capability)
• Cell phone with charger, and fully charged battery backup for phones
• Fire extinguisher, wrench or pliers to turn off utilities, and a manual can opener
• Blanket or sleeping bag (one per person)
• Seasonal clothing and sturdy shoes
• Extra house and car keys, cash, and change
• Important documents: driver's license copy, Social Security card, and bank records
• Face coverings, hand sanitizer, and sanitizing wipes

Water, electricity, and gas are essential, but they can become hazards during a storm.

• Know how to shut off water, gas, and electricity at the source before an emergency happens.
• Report outages directly to your service provider.
• Never try to turn the gas back on yourself. Always call a trained professional.
• If the power goes out, turn off and unplug appliances and computers. Leave one light on to signal when power is restored.
• Avoid candles; they're fire hazards. Do not use a gas stove for heat.
• Never run a generator or use an outdoor grill indoors or in a garage. Carbon monoxide poisoning can be deadly.
• Stay away from downed power lines and report them to your local electric company.

When a storm is approaching, take action before conditions get dangerous.

• Bring your pets inside.
• Close and lock doors, windows, air vents, and fireplace dampers.
• Move lawn furniture, grills, garbage cans, and other outdoor items inside or tie them down securely.
• Fill bathtubs, sinks, and jugs with clean water in case regular water supplies are disrupted. Rinse containers with bleach before filling.
• Get your emergency kit ready and move to an interior room with few windows.
• Monitor TV, radio, and official news sources for updates and instructions.
• Place sandbags around entry points (not against exterior walls) to help redirect flood water.

If local authorities call for an evacuation, be ready to move quickly.

• Fill your gas tank or charge your vehicle ahead of time.
• Leave early; don't wait until conditions become dangerous.
• Take one vehicle, when possible, to reduce traffic.
• Plan and communicate a family meeting place before you need it.
• Try to stay with family or friends first, then a hotel/motel. Shelters are a last resort.
• Use major roads and any routes recommended by local officials.
• Take your pets and your emergency kit.
• Bring extra cash. ATMs and financial institutions may be closed or unavailable.
• Lock doors and windows and unplug small appliances before leaving.

If your home or vehicle was damaged:

• Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to file a claim and arrange for a property assessment. Find your insurance carrier’s contact information by visiting our Insurance Claims page or the North Carolina Department of Insurance website.
• Document everything first. Take photos of all damage before making any repairs.
• Make only temporary repairs until your insurer has assessed the damage. Save all receipts.
• If your home is uninhabitable, your homeowners policy may cover additional living expenses while it is being fixed. Check with your insurer before renting a temporary living space.
• Find more information from the NC Department of Insurance by visiting ncdoi.gov/consumers/disaster.

Want to make sure you have the insurance coverage you need before storm season hits? Talk to an SECU insurance specialist. Call (833) 599-7328 today.