Hurricane season is upon us. Take the time to prepare your family for an emergency. To find more information and tips, go to www.ready.gov. To receive emergency alerts and information from the Town of Elon, register for the notification system, Elon Connect. For Alamance County Alerts, register for A.C.E Alerts.
Below are some very important safeguards to prepare for Hurricane Season.
- Make sure you have adequate insurance coverage. Know exactly what your insurance policy covers. Homeowners policies do not cover flooding. You can only purchase flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program. However, there is typically a 30-day waiting period before flood policies take effect, so don’t wait until a storm is approaching to purchase coverage. If you live in a rental property, your landlord’s insurance only covers the building. None of your personal belongings are insured unless you purchase your own renter’s policy.
- Compile important documents. Gather important paperwork, including insurance policies, medical records, and prescriptions. Be prepared to bring copies with you if you must evacuate.
- Create a home inventory. Go room to room and write down your brand name, description, estimated value and date of purchase of items in your home. It is also helpful to compile receipts, appraisal documents and serial numbers. Take videos or photographs of your belongings. Store your home inventory and related documents in a safe, easily accessible place online, on your smartphone, on your computer or in a fireproof box or safe deposit box.
- Identify potential hazards around your home. Hanging tree branches, loose shingles, patio furniture and other outdoor objects can cause damage or injuries in a storm. Make repairs or secure large objects to reduce the threat.
- Review contact information. Make sure you have up-to-date contact information for your insurance agent and insurance company. Also, make sure your insurance agent and company have your accurate contact information.
- Keep cash on hand. If the power goes out, credit and debit cards many not work. You’ll need cash to replenish supplies.
- Have a battery-powered radio. If electricity is out and cell towers are down, radios are the best way to know what’s going on.
- Have plenty of water. Widespread power outages could make tap water unsafe to drink. The rule of thumb is to have a gallon of water for every family member and pets.