It is never too early to start planning for hurricane season in Louisiana. With June only a few months away, now is the perfect time to start prepping. To help prevent the worst from happening this season, concerned residents and business owners should take the following steps to protect their homes, businesses and families from hurricane damage.
Hurricane season preparedness checklist
Louisiana residents should consider the following five tips to better prepare for Hurricane Season 2020:
- Know the local hurricane risk: Hurricanes not only impact coastal regions but can reach inland for hundreds of miles. Research the immediate area’s hurricane risk to better understand the dangers.
- Form an evacuation plan: It can be hard to face the reality of an evacuation, but families still need to prepare for it. Locate a friend or family member who lives in a safer region and form a plan. Remember to account for pets and put the plan in writing.
- Get disaster supplies: Make sure to store three days’ worth of supplies for everyone in the family. Include non-perishable food, water, medicine, cash, batteries, and tools like a battery-powered radio and flashlight. A solar-powered USB charger might also come in handy.
- Schedule an insurance review: Those who believe their property is at risk for damage this season should contact their insurance carrier to thoroughly examine their coverage and ensure their protection. It’s also an opportune time to shop around for competitive rates or improved coverage.
- Fortify home and community: For those planning to endure the storms in their home, make sure it is up to code and in good repair. Obtain plywood, steel or aluminum panels to board up windows. Assisting neighbors with their preparations will also help protect personal property — severe winds can tear houses apart and send debris all over the neighborhood.
Safety is the number one priority
There are no guarantees when it comes to hurricanes, but following these guidelines will help Metairie residents prepare for the upcoming hurricane season. For those who have questions regarding insurance claims or need assistance navigating the paperwork, reach out to a local lawyer for help.