All too often homeowners fail to prepare for a storm before it happens. In the midst of hurricane season, we have some helpful tips for weathering a hurricane in the event that our area is affected. As your agent, our number one tip for you is to take inventory of your valuables in your home. Homeowner claims are processed twice as fast when insureds have a home inventory handy. Snap some pictures with your cell phone camera to have them readily available.  Below are a few more suggestions to protect your home and your family this hurricane season:

• First and foremost, talk to your agent and be clear on what is covered, and whether or not you have the right insurance protection for you and your family.
• Be sure to program all emergency numbers in your mobile phone, including your agents!
• With that said, be sure that all cell phones are adequately charged in case of power outages
• Stock up on emergency supplies like water & nonperishable foods, first aid kits, flashlights, batteries, battery powered radios, medicines, etc.
• Take in any loose patio furniture and equipment that could be damaged and/or blow away and cause damage.
• Turn your refrigerator to the coldest setting to avoid food spoilage in case of an electric outage
• Before the challenging weather, be sure to repair loose shingles, boards, shutters, and down spouts on your home. With strong winds and heavy rains, these are potential hazards.
• Sign up for local weather alerts and pay close attention to any updates.
• Don’t forget about your pets! Do your due diligence in finding pet-friendly hotels or temporary shelters in the event you must evacuate your home.
• Be sure to have filled up your vehicle with gas.
• In the event you must evacuate, do so as soon as possible.

New England weather can be unpredictable, with these useful tips; we can properly prepare for damaging storms, and help prevent an insurance claim. September is National Preparedness Month! With all of the wind and rain coming our way lately, now is a good time to evaluate your emergency plans in the case of a major storm.