Identifying the steps of recovery after a hurricane or storm.
When a hurricane is expected to hit your area, identifying the steps of recovery are just as important as steps of preparation. Not knowing the precautions to take after a storm can lead to additional damage to you and your home. Max Guard Hurricane Windows is here to provide a comprehensive checklist of steps to take after a storm hits.
Stay Alert
If you have access to radio, internet, or television, keeping up with local news can reduce any confusion or anxiety impacting those affected by a major storm. These resources provide real-time updates and advisories for anybody who may be seeking help or guidance.
Check for Damage
Damage after a storm is not always obvious. Whether it be a cracked window or a gas leak, all damage must be identified and reported. Start with the inside of your home and check for any flooding, leaks, or outages. Once you have been given the OK to go outside, check the perimeter of your house for any potential damage. For insurance purposes, be sure to document all damage by taking photos and creating a detailed list of these items.
File an Insurance Claim
A severe storm can affect multiple people in your area, meaning that many people will be reporting damage at the same time. As soon as you notice the damage done to your property, file an insurance claim. Doing this sooner rather than later can allow an insurance adjuster to come to your home in a timely manner, as they usually assist customers on a first-come, first-served basis.
Avoid the Outdoors
Between fallen power lines and trees and contaminated flood water, being outdoors after a hurricane can be extremely dangerous. If you must leave your house for whatever reason, avoid damaged power lines; they may be energized and can spark items in their surrounding areas. Make sure to report any damaged power lines to local authorities. Additionally, try to avoid driving through flooded waters – they may be deeper than they seem.
Take Food-Safety Precautions
Spoiled and contaminated food is one of the main reasons why people get sick after a hurricane. If you have experienced a power outage, it is likely that perishable items that were refrigerated or frozen may have gone bad. Make sure to inspect your food, and if you have even the slightest doubts about a food item, it is best to just throw it away. Always remember: when in doubt, throw it out! If you are unsure about your food or kitchen appliances, refer to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s food safety tips.
Conduct Emergency Repairs
If there is any damage which can become a threat to your safety, such as a broken window, it is okay to conduct temporary repairs to prevent further damage. But always be sure to not clean up too much, or to permanently repair the damage yourself. Insurance adjusters must see the raw, untouched damage in order to provide you with the best results to settle your claim.
Need Window Replacement After a Hurricane? Let Max Guard Help
We understand that damage from a hurricane can be stressful and devastating. Along with hurricane preparedness, our professionals at Max Guard Hurricane Windows can help you recover from a storm. Contact us today at (561) 276-7100 to get your windows replaced or installed.
