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Tips to Prepare Your Home
for Hurricane Sandy
With the storm fast approaching and New Jersey in its direct path, there are certain measures you should take to protect your home, your loved ones and your life. Here are some tips when it comes to preparing for a hurricane:
- Stay up-to-date on changing weather patterns
- Clear all drains and gutters to avoid flooding
- Check your sump pump often to ensure it is working properly
- Be sure to have a battery back-up for the sump pump in case the power goes out, and a shop vac to remove any excess water
- Check that your generator is running
- Secure all loose items from your lawn, ie: bring in garbage cans and tie down patio furniture
- Make sure your cell phone is fully charged
- Set refrigerator and freezer controls to coldest settings
- Fill your car's gas tank
- Get cash in case of an emergency
- Put fresh batteries in your flashlights and radio
- Stock up on bottled water and non-perishable food items
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Reporting Damage
If there is damage to your home, property or vehicle, the first thing to do is take plenty of pictures - to document exactly what happened. Once you've taken pictures, then it is time to fix the problem so you don't incur anymore damages! For example, if a tree falls on your roof and the estimator can't get there for another 3 days, it is best to take pictures and then have the tree removed and roof fixed, so the house is not further damaged from the elements.
If you need to file a claim and the weather conditions are such that a state of emergency is declared, our offices will likely be closed. Should you need to report a claim, please do so as quickly as possible. You may go to our website to get the information you need to call your insurance company directly to file the claim.
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What To Do If There Are
Downed Power Lines
Downed power lines are a serious hazard of any major storm. If you see signs of downed wires, maintain at least 50 feet from them and anything that is in contact with the wires. Here are a few other safety tips when dealing with downed power lines.
- Be especially wary of metal fences
- Keep your children inside and pets on a leash
- Be sure to never drive over downed power lines, even if they appear to be non-energized
- If a fallen wire is draped over a car, DO NOT approach the car or make a reckless rescue attempt. Wait for emergency personnel to arrive.
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