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Hurricane
The only thing friendly about a hurricane is its name.
Are you prepared?
Respect what hurricanes can do—and know what your insurance covers
We've all seen the dramatic effect hurricanes can have—both the initial wind and rain and the floods that follow. But there are steps you can take to stay safe and reduce damage to your property in the event of a storm.
- Make sure you have enough insurance coverage
- Take steps to reduce your risk
- Have a safety plan
- If disaster strikes, call 1-800-275-1915
Know what your insurance covers and how much you need
Your insurance policy typically covers the cost to repair common hurricane damage—including damage to roofs and walls, cars and your inventory or belongings. If you can't live in your home, Safeco will pay additional living expenses as provided in your policy-typically for up to 12 months. Review your policy for detailed coverage explanations.
Business owners should also consider business income insurance which covers the costs to replace lost profits, payroll and operating expenses if you are shut down while repairs are being made.
You should review your insurance policy once a year to make sure you have enough coverage to rebuild based on current construction costs. We recommend you work with an independent building contractor to get a precise estimate, and make sure you talk to your agent about your building's unique features.
Flood damage from hurricanes isn't covered by property insurance
It's important to know that neither home nor business insurance covers flood damage from a hurricane. Your agent can help you purchase a policy through the National Flood Insurance Program .
Reduce potential damage before a hurricane hits
- Install storm shutters
- Remove yard debris, like dead tree limbs, that could become flying missiles
- Have a safe place to park your cars or store your boat
- Make sure you, your family or employees know how to shut off utilities
- Back up computer records and store them at least 50 miles off-site
- Gather important papers including inventory lists and insurance information to take with you if you must evacuate
A few tips if you are in the path of a hurricane
- If you are in a building, avoid elevators.
- Stay inside and away from windows, skylights and glass doors.
- Know your community's evacuation plan and if asked to evacuate, do so immediately.
- When driving, avoid washed out and wet roads that can hide downed electrical lines or underlying currents that can carry your vehicle away.
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