Every year, hurricane season makes Floridians wonder why we ever call our home the "Sunshine State." Hurricanes are dangerous enough as it is but without the proper preparations, it is easy for them to become financially destructive and even fatal. The insurance defense lawyers at the Law Offices of Michael B. Brehne, P.A. offer a few simple steps you can take to make you feel a little less uneasy as hurricane season approaches.

1. Make Sure To Have The Right Insurance

The most important step in preparing for a hurricane is having the proper insurance whether it be for a home, business, or property. Oftentime, people believe that insurance will always be on their side, however this is not always the case. Many insurance companies are hesitant with property damage reimbursements and will deny your insurance claim.

In an instance where your claim is denied, you may want to hire an insurance defense lawyer who will assist you in gaining the compensation necessary for an unpredictable occurrence.

Having hurricane insurance is necessary if you live in a hurricane-prone area and must be bought separately from your standard homeowner and renters insurance. Once the hurricane has made it on the news, it is far too late to try and acquire hurricane insurance, so this must be done in advance.

2. Secure Your Windows And Check Your Roof

The high winds of a hurricane can easily shatter the glass on your windows which is why it's important that you secure them. If you live in a hurricane-prone area, you may consider purchasing permanent shutters to prevent storm damage to your windows, but boarding up windows with plywood is a simple and cost-effective alternative.

The roof of your house is another area that can be prone to damage if not properly checked. Before a storm, check to make sure the roof has no prior leaks or loose shingles. If anything were to happen to your roof, an insurance dispute lawyer can assist you in filing a roof damage claim.

3. Plan An Evacuation Route Ahead Of Time

Sometimes hurricanes get to the point where the wreckage is too far along to repair, and at that point, it is safe to assume you must evacuate the area. Hurricanes can become fatal with high speeds of wind and heavy rain. It is important to plan an escape plan for intense storms. By planning this ahead of time, you will know right away the nearest shelters and be able to have an idea of what you'll do with your pets as well.

4. Bring In All Outside Furniture And Secure Your Porch

Whether it's on the porch, patio, backyard, balcony or near the front door, it is important to bring inside all of your outside furniture. If left outside, furniture may get damaged, or worse, it may damage other parts of the property or other people's property.

Another essential step to remember while you're out there collecting furniture is to secure anything that looks like it may fly off of the house. A porch or carport may become loose with the high winds and tear a hole in the side of your house if you are not careful.

5. Keep Hurricane Supplies On Hand

It is essential to keep supplies readily available if a hurricane is heading your way along with non-perishable snacks just in case stores close down or you are unable to leave your home.

  • Water for cooking, cleaning, drinking and for your pets
  • Containers in case you need to store important electronics or documents so they don’t get wet
  • First-aid kit
  • Extra pillows and blankets
  • Shutters or wood to board up any doors or windows
  • Games and toys for kids and adults because you may get bored waiting for the electricity to come back on
  • Tools in case you need to secure your home any further
  • Flashlights and candles
  • Pet-care and child-care items

Hurricane Preparedness Infographic By Insurance Dispute Attorneys In Orlando