Because 2020 isn’t chaotic enough, let’s be reminded that we live on the gulf coast and storms can develop overnight! It leaves us half skeptical and half anxious until landfall. In Houston, we’ve learned not to rule anything out. That’s why it is so important to be proactive and have a plan in place.
First and foremost, we need to make sure our property and belongings are covered. Once a storm is named in the gulf, a “freeze” is put on binding policies until it has run its course. Take the time to check your policies for emergency and catastrophic coverage’s, as well as physically looking around your home to see what is most at-risk for being damaged or lost in the case of a windstorm or flood.
Of course there’s the stocking of essentials – which has already been challenging enough in the midst of COVID. I’ve found that going to smaller stores, and not the well-known chains, has been the way to go to find TP, paper towels, and everything antibacterial in-stock. Remember to have foods that won’t spoil and won’t require much to prepare. Stock up on water and ice in an ice chest just in case the plumbing and fridge goes out!
What I always find myself forgetting is all of the things that require electricity! Having a stock of candles, fans, flashlights, & batteries, phone battery backups, radios, etc. can be a real lifesaver. A handy tip is to have camping supplies ready to go should you be without electricity, internet, or cable for a night or two. And never, NEVER, forget to have ways to entertain yourself in the meantime. I swear time moves slower during a storm.
Hopefully, everyone has a family or friend further inland they could go to in case of an intense hurricane. If evacuations become mandatory, it’s good to take a look at a map and consider alternate routes to where you’ll be going to avoid the heavy traffic. I recommend downloading the app Waze for the most accurate and up-to-date traffic conditions. It’s also incredibly important to consider how fast the storm is moving before you travel, to avoid being stuck on the road and in a potential life-threatening situation.
Remember – it is always better to be safe than sorry. You will never regret taking too many precautions! If you have any concerns on your home or auto insurance, Highpoint is always here to answer your questions. We are confident we can help you weather the storm.
Sydney Bourgeois, 365 Bond Coordinator
