Hurricane Preparedness Tips: Preparing Your Home for Hurricane Sandy

Although it remains uncertain where Hurricane Sandy will make landfall next week, meteorologists are confident that the storm will impact New England. Hurricane Sandy, which has been classified as a category 2 hurricane, is currently on the northeast side of the Bahamas, bringing with it winds of up to 80 miles per hour, according to The Boston Globe. From how to prepare your home before this potential storm arrives, to the steps you should take after it passes, use the hurricane preparedness tips we've put together to help keep you and your loved ones safe in the event that Hurricane Sandy hits our area.

Photo credit: NOAA.gov

Before Hurricane Sandy Hits

• To begin preparing, put together an emergency kit containing basic items your household may need in the event of an emergency, and develop a communication plan so you and your family members know how to contact one another when disaster strikes.
• Stock up on supplies like bottled water, canned goods, flashlights, nails, tarps and plywood. Be sure to have a manual can/bottle opener and a battery-operated radio handy.
• Take time to check to make sure your home inventory is up-to-date. Your inventory should include a list of your possessions, their approximate value, and photographs of the items if possible.
• Be sure you and your family members are aware of your community's hurricane evacuation routes and where you to go in case you need to evacuate.
• Secure your property, covering all windows and doors, and moving outdoor furniture to another location, like your garage or basement. 
• If time permits, trim all trees and shrubs around your home to help them become more wind resistant.

During the Storm

• Listen to your battery-operated radio for important information and updates.
• Move to an interior room in your home that is away from windows and glass doors, be sure that all doors that open to the outside are closed and secured, and keep curtains and blinds closed.
• If you hear winds begin to subside, don't assume the storm has passed; this could actually be the eye of the storm and winds could pick up again soon after.
• If necessary, lie on the floor under a sturdy object like a table. 

After a Hurricane

• Do not leave your home until authorities in your community confirm that it's safe to return outdoors.
• If you need to inspect your home for damages, wear sturdy shoes and protective clothing in case there is broken glass or other dangerous debris in your path. Take pictures of the damage for insurance purposes and if you have safety concerns, hire a professional to inspect your home.
• If power has not been restored to your home, use flashlights instead of candles.
• Avoid drinking tap water until authorities have deemed it safe.

Hopefully Hurricane Sandy passes by New Hampshire without leaving any damage behind, but in case disaster strikes, it's crucial to be prepared. Reviewing our hurricane preparedness tips and developing an emergency plan with your family will help keep everyone safe in the event of a natural disaster. At Hunkins & Eaton Insurance Agency, your safety is important to us. We are always available to assist you with safety information as well as coverage and claims questions. For additional information, please call our offices at 800-427-3975. In case of an emergency during non-business hours, please call 603-444-4824.

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