Hello Friends!
Hurricane Season is upon us and I want to be sure I help you prepare in order to minimize any inconveniences. I like to provide you with this information annually to keep it ready at your fingertips and to help you plan properly. Your safety is always a top priority!
HURRICANE DISASTER & PROCEDURES
Have a Plan
The key to safely and properly handling any emergency/disaster is pre-planning and staying calm during and after the event. Being prepared is every individual’s responsibility. Don’t rely only on management or the authorities. Advanced planning allows for fewer mistakes and greater safety for you, your family, and your home.
Hurricane Storm / Watch / Warning
When living in Louisiana, the chances of experiencing a hurricane or heavy storm are always possible. It is important to know and follow proper procedures to safeguard yourself and the property you live in and minimize potential risk and damage.
A Hurricane Storm Watch is when Hurricanes are possible in the specified area of the watch, usually within 36 hours.
A Hurricane Storm Warning is when Hurricane conditions are expected in the specified area of the warning, usually within 24 hours.
Hurricane / Disaster/ Procedures
Your First Priority is to have an emergency preparedness plan, a storm kit and a checklist (pages 5&6 of that plan link).
The Louisiana Governor’s Office put together an incredibly detailed preparedness plan which you can access by clicking on these two hotlinks above. It is 28 pages.
I can’t stress enough the importance that you to click that link (print it out, if possible) read it thoroughly and take the suggested steps.
Stay tuned to the local news media and follow all recommended precautions and instructions. For more details go to www.GetAGamePlan.org and download their free GetAGamePlan app.
Because we get advance warning for Hurricanes, many people choose to leave town. If you leave, you still should secure your property prior to leaving.
Before the storm:
- Keep a supply of water, non-perishable food, and batteries.
- Have a solar powered, hand crank or battery-operated radio & flashlight.
- Pack your phone charger.
- Make sure you have a non-electrical can opener.
- Secure all outside items. Bring in the swing sets, playhouses, outdoor furniture, small planters, items on balconies, garbage cans and anything that could turn into a flying object during high winds.
- Secure your dwelling against damage. Take all recommended precautions by the local news media and storm bulletin publications.
- If you have pets, they should be secured. If it is not safe for you outside, it is not safe for your pets, either. If you are leaving the property, do not leave your pets behind.
- Get some cash early in case ATM machines are not functioning.
- Pack your credit card.
- Fill your vehicle gas tank before the storm arrives.
- Clean out catch basins near your house to allow for better drainage.
- Gather important documents: birth certificate, driver’s license, social security card, insurance papers, etc.
- Create or locate a First Aid Kit.
- Make sure to have a 2-week supply of medications on hand.
During the storm:
- Remain indoors.
- Listen to radio for information from local authorities (99.5 FM) or follow a weather app.
- Avoid all downed electrical and telephone wires.
- If you use a generator, do not operate it inside or under a carport or overhang.
- Fill a bathtub and containers with water in event water is turned off.
- Evacuate when necessary.
If you evacuate:
- Turn off the main breaker to your dwelling.
- Turn off the main water supply to your dwelling, if unit is separately metered. If it is not separately metered, turn off at each fixture, including laundry area.
- Lock and secure your property.
- Take your personal records, medications, identifications, insurance policies.
- Remove perishables from refrigerator/freezer or put them in a strong plastic bag before placing them back into refrigerator/freezer.
Since Hurricanes are so unpredictable, it’s up to us to be diligent in our preparations. Although no one wants to even think about another Katrina or dealing with ripping out flooded carpet from their home, education is our best friend. So, should your dwelling be flooded in the next storm, here is a link to read on 10 tips regarding “What to Do If My House Floods”.
Preparedness and safety is a top priority as we all know how quickly weather can change in South Louisiana. Remember that I’m here for you, should your damages require you to file a claim with your insurance company. Holding insurance companies accountable to their insureds is a responsibility I’ll gladly take off your shoulders. We have a “No Fee Guarantee” and over 20 years’ experience dealing with insurance companies over storm related damages. I’ve attached a flyer you can print out and post in your home in a handy location. Feel free to share it with your friends and family as well.
I’m Jim Hall, your Lawyer for Life!
