Spring in Hollywood, Florida, is a time of renewal, with vibrant colors returning to the landscape and the promise of warm, sunny days ahead. However, for homeowners in this beautiful coastal region and across Broward County, spring also signals the crucial time to prepare for the looming Atlantic hurricane season, which officially begins on June 1st. Proactive preparation is the most effective way to safeguard your home, your loved ones, and your financial well-being against the potentially devastating impacts of these powerful storms.
This isn’t just about boarding up windows a few days before a storm threatens. True hurricane preparedness is a multi-faceted process that should begin well in advance. Spring offers the ideal window to take essential steps, including reviewing your insurance coverage, fortifying your property, and assembling a comprehensive emergency plan. By acting now, you can mitigate potential damage, reduce stress during a storm event, and ensure a smoother recovery afterward.
Early Preparation: Laying the Groundwork for Safety
Waiting until a hurricane is in the forecast is a recipe for stress and potentially inadequate preparation. Spring provides ample time to tackle key tasks methodically:
- Review and Update Your Homeowners Insurance Policy: This is arguably the most critical step. Don’t assume your current home insurance policy provides adequate coverage for hurricane-related damage. Carefully review your declarations page and policy documents to understand your coverage limits for wind damage, water damage (separate flood insurance is usually required), and additional living expenses (ALE) if you need to evacuate. Pay close attention to your hurricane deductible, which is often a percentage of your dwelling coverage and can be significantly higher than your standard deductible. Contact Finney Insurance to discuss your current coverage and make any necessary adjustments to ensure you have the protection you need. Now is the time to ask questions and understand your policy inside and out.
- Create or Update Your Home Inventory: A detailed inventory of your personal belongings, including photos and videos, is invaluable when filing an insurance claim after a storm. Walk through each room of your house, documenting your possessions. Store this inventory securely, both physically (a hard copy in a waterproof bag) and digitally (cloud storage). Update it annually, especially after significant purchases.
- Assess Your Property’s Vulnerabilities: Take a critical look at your home’s exterior. Identify potential weaknesses that could be susceptible to hurricane-force winds and heavy rain. This includes:
- Roof: Check for loose or damaged shingles, tiles, or metal panels. Ensure your roof is securely attached.
- Windows and Doors: Inspect for cracks, leaks, and proper sealing. Consider the benefits of hurricane-resistant windows or installing storm shutters.
- Garage Door: Ensure your garage door is reinforced and can withstand high winds. Garage door failure is a common point of entry for hurricane-force winds.
- Landscaping: Trim trees and shrubs around your home to prevent branches from damaging your property during high winds. Secure or remove any loose outdoor items like patio furniture, grills, and decorations.
- Gather Essential Supplies: Don’t wait for store shelves to empty. Start gathering essential emergency supplies now and replenish them as needed throughout the season. This includes:
- Non-perishable food and water (at least a 3-day supply per person and pet).
- A manual can opener.
- Flashlights and extra batteries.
- A first-aid kit and necessary medications.
- A battery-powered or hand-crank weather radio.
- A whistle to signal for help.
- Dust masks to help filter contaminated air.
- Plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter-in-place.
- Moist towelettes, garbage bags, 1 and plastic ties for personal sanitation.
- Copies of important documents in a waterproof bag (insurance policies, identification, medical information).
- Cash, as ATMs and credit card machines may not work during a power outage.
- Pet supplies (food, water, medications, carrier).
Practical Tips for Homeowners During Hurricane Season:
While early preparation is key, being ready when a storm approaches is equally important:
- Stay Informed: Monitor local news and official weather reports from the National Hurricane Center. Understand the potential threats and evacuation orders.
- Follow Evacuation Orders Immediately: If authorities issue an evacuation order for your zone, don’t hesitate. Evacuate promptly to a safe location.
- Secure Your Home: If you are not in an evacuation zone or have time before evacuating:
- Board up windows and doors with plywood or install storm shutters.
- Bring in all outdoor items.
- Secure boats and other watercraft.
- Turn off propane tanks.
- Unplug appliances to prevent power surges.
- Know how to turn off your electricity and water mains if necessary.
- Charge Electronic Devices: Ensure your cell phones, laptops, and other essential electronic devices are fully charged. Consider having a portable power bank.
- Know Your Evacuation Route and Shelter Locations: Familiarize yourself with designated evacuation routes and identify nearby shelters in advance.
- Have a Communication Plan: Establish a communication plan with your family so you can stay in touch before, during, and after the storm. Designate an out-of-state contact person if local communication is disrupted.
Finney Insurance: Your Partner in Hurricane Preparedness
At Finney Insurance, we are your neighbors, and we understand the unique challenges that hurricane season brings to Hollywood and Broward County. We are committed to helping you protect your most valuable asset – your home. Our experienced agents can:
- Review your current homeowners insurance policy and ensure it provides adequate hurricane coverage.
- Explain your hurricane deductible and other important policy details.
- Discuss the importance of flood insurance and help you obtain a separate policy if needed.
- Answer your questions and provide guidance on hurricane preparedness best practices.
- Be a trusted resource for you throughout the hurricane season.
Spring is the time to take action. Don’t wait until a storm is on the horizon. Contact Finney Insurance Corporation today for a comprehensive insurance review and let us help you spring into safety, ensuring your Hollywood home is as prepared as possible for the upcoming hurricane season.
Disclaimer: This information is for general guidance only and should not be considered legal or financial advice. Always follow the guidance of local emergency management officials during a hurricane threat. Contact Finney Insurance for a personalized review of your insurance policy.
