Welcome back, folks!

Today we are going to discuss what YOU can do to protect yourself when the inevitable natural disasters and extreme weather events occur.

We know when natural disasters or extreme weather occur, you need to evacuate for the protection of you and your family. We’ve also expressed the importance of having Flood Insurance on your house! So… you know to evacuate and your home is covered if anything were to happen to it.

What do YOU do when there is a major storm warning? We have put together a before, during, and after list for you to use at your disposal.

Before to the Storm:

• For tropical storms, know the difference between a hurricane watch and a hurricane warning. A hurricane watch means that a hurricane may arrive in 24 to 36 hours. A hurricane warning means that a hurricane will arrive even sooner, as in less than 24 hours.
• Plan your evacuation route in advance of the storm. Expect heavy traffic.
• Print out directions for evacuation route or bring a phone charger in case the battery runs out.
• Stock up on drinking water and several days of non-perishable foods. Foods should be edible without heating (i.e. tuna fish, protein bars, nutritional supplements etc.).
• Have a supply of batteries, flashlights, and a portable radio in good working condition.
• Test your generator if you have one. These can come in handy.
• Review how to shut off utilities – water valve, gas main, and electrical panel -.
• Put gas in your car in case you must leave immediately. Some gas stations may run out of gas so get it quickly!
• Inside your home, check that doors and windows are closed and locked. Putting boards over them is a good idea. Be sure to bring in garbage cans, bicycles, furniture, grills, etc.
• Stay tuned in to the news/weather stations so you are aware of updates, changes to evacuation plans, and any State of Emergency situations affecting your town. Lots of roads could be closed.

During the Storm:

• Listen to the radio for important storm information and instructions.
• On your smartphone or tablet, monitor weather extremity. You can visit scdot.org for continuous updates. Keep in mind about battery usage.
• If/when you evacuate, leave as soon as possible and alert someone outside of the storm area where you will be going.
• Keep windows and doors securely shut during the storm. Windows left open to high winds can force the roof to blow off.
• If at home, stay inside, away from windows, skylights and glass doors. Basically, stay away from all glass openings. Even if the weather appears to have calmed, do not go outside. The “eye” of the storm can pass very quickly, leaving you outside when the strong winds restart.
• While phones still work (and are charged), check in with vulnerable neighbors and friends to keep them calm and assured…or maybe they will keep you calm and assured!

After the Storm:

• Inspect your property for damage. Wear protective clothing and be cautious as debris may be scattered around the property. There is no such thing as being too careful.
• If you have any claims to report, contact Crescent Coast Insurance by calling (843) 399-0822 or visit crescentcoastinsurance.com to report to your carrier directly.

What would you guys like to hear next? Drop an idea in the comment section!