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Are you prepared for a Hurricane?

We are in hurricane season, and your Lock insurance independent insurance agent reminds you that thousands of folks failed to take even basic precautions before past storms rolled ashore and blew or washed away millions of dollars in property. Don’t be one of those unfortunate people when the next hurricane blows through.

Here are some valuable pre-storm planning tips:

• Listen to a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) weather radio for critical information from the National Weather Service (NWS).
• Stock or replace your disaster supplies.
• Bicycles, lawn furniture, and any other items outside that can be picked up by the wind should be stored indoors.
• Close your windows, doors, and hurricane shutters. If you do not have hurricane shutters, close and board up all windows and reinforce doors with plywood.
• Turn your refrigerator and freezer to the coldest setting. If the power goes out, keep them closed as much as possible, so food will last longer.
• Turn off propane tank.
• Unplug all small appliances.
• Fill your car’s gas tank.
• Create an evacuation plan. Your household members should rehearse the evacuation plan to minimize confusion and fear during the event.
• Find out about your community’s hurricane response plan. Not only should you plan routes to local shelters, but you also should register family members with special medical needs.
• Make arrangements for the care of your pets.
• Obey evacuation orders. Avoid flooded roads and washed out bridges.

For even more information, visit the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) website for hurricane preparedness at http://www.ready.gov/hurricanes.

Don’t forget that a significant amount of hurricane damage arises from flooding, not from high winds. Flooding can be caused by wind-driven waves and storm tides or massive amounts of rain overflowing rivers, streams and local lakes. For full protection against both wind and water, you will need to obtain a flood policy in addition to your homeowners insurance. Not to worry: Lock insurance is your Trusted Choice agent stands ready to assist you. Also be sure to ask for additional safety planning tips and a full review of your current insurance, with options for other potential coverage gaps and needs. We have a multitude of services designed specifically to provide you peace of mind when it comes to risk of loss of your valuable and treasured possessions.

Are You Ready for a Hurricane

Hurricane season starts June 1 and ends Nov. 30 for the Atlantic Ocean

The peak threat of hurricane activity is from the middle of August through late October for the United States.  For the 2011 hurricane season, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration stated last week that the Atlantic basin is expected to see an above-normal hurricane season this year, according to this seasons outlook issued by NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center.

 Across the entire Atlantic Basin, NOAA is predicting the following ranges this year;

• 12 to 18 named storms (with winds of 39 mph or higher) of which,
• 6 to 10 could become hurricanes (with winds of 74 mph or higher), including
• 3 to 6 major hurricanes (Category 3, 4 or 5; winds of 111 mph or higher)

The impact of hurricanes is not only limited to the coastline, flooding rainfall, debris and strong winds often pose a threat to inland areas as well. Being prepared is critical, therefore, individuals and families should be ready, before a storm is even forecasted.

 Every residence should have a hurricane package with the following supplies:

• Water: 1 gallon of water daily, per person, enough for at least 3-7 days
• Food: A 4-7 day supply of nonperishable foods, canned foods, snack foods, any specialty foods for infants or the elderly.
• Cooking tools, fuel, paper plates and plastic utensils.
• First Aid Kit, Prescription Drugs and Medicines
• Hygiene Items, Toiletries
• Flashlights and extra batteries
• Battery operated or hand cranked Radio/TV
• Fully charged cell phone and a traditional (not cordless) telephone
• Blankets, Pillows
• Cash and Credit Cards
• Seasonal clothing; sturdy shoes, rain gear
• Important documents in a waterproof container; Insurance, medical records, bank account numbers, social security card, etc…
• Vehicles filled with fuel
• Pet care items: Supply of food and water, proper identification, immunization records, medications, a carrier or cage and their leash and collar, and having a plan for your pets.

Most of all make sure your Insurance is active, once a storm is in the box close to Florida you will not be able to get Home insurance or coverage for your vehicle. My name is Don, please contact me with any questions.

Don Westerfeld 5/29/2011 7:39:00 AM