Our home Delmarva is no stranger to storms. The next day or so Delmarva will experience heavily winds, rain and flooding. There is a high possibility of downed trees, powerlines, and power outages.
Here are some things to keep in mind and help prevent claims and what you should do if you have a claim.
Homeowners/Property:
Make sure you have cleared all rain guttering and down spouts are pointed away from your home or property.
Have dead tree limbs, or trees removed.
Have loose shingles replaced as soon as possible.
Secure all lose chairs, trampolines, or other items in your yard that could be blown in the heavy winds.
Keep limbs from overhanging or touching your roof or siding.
Know where your breaker box is and how to reset in the event that you have a power outage and the breakers trip.
Auto:
Do not park under trees or limbs.
Do not park in low lying areas that are known for standing water. Do not drive into standing water.
Keep your window clean and when visibility is bad reduce speed. Stay off the roads if at all possible or slow down or stop to allow heavy rains to pass.
Here are some basic steps to prepare before a storm.
Have charged phones, flashlights, extra batteries.
Know where fire extinguishers are located.
Have some cash on hand.
Have medicine as well as enough food and water for a few days. Have important documents in a safe place including your insurance policies with the claims reporting number.
For more preparation tips see the American Red Cross Preparedness tips.
What to do if you have a claim.
Most importantly stay safe.
Next if you can take steps to prevent further damage. And save any receipts for temporary repairs.
Call power companies or utility companies to report downed lines.
Report the loss directly to the claims reporting number on your ID card or policy as soon as possible. Here is a list of most of our carriers claims reporting lines: CLAIM NUMBERS Apps are available with most companies to report claims on as well.
While now is not the time to make changes or purchase insurance storms serve as a great reminder why having proper insurance in place is so important.
