Hurricane Season in the Carolinas

It is not secret that hurricanes can devastate the Carolinas. Since 1851, 47 hurricanes have hit North Carolina and 31 have made it to South Carolina. As we’ve seen in the past, we can even feel the affects inland. One of the most important things you can do is to check with your insurance agent here at High Rock Insurance to make sure your home is covered. If you’re unsure, or want to inquire about adding homeowners insurance, Contact Us. Hurricane season is approaching and preparedness is one of the ways you can keep you, your loved ones, and your possessions safe!

Make sure to check your home’s exterior and not-frequently-visited places to ensure you are not prone to leaks. Was your roof affected last year? Maybe you’re missing some shingles and have noticed small leaks when it rains. Have you noticed your basement or crawl space pooling with water? Don’t ignore this! These are important places to keep dry in order to maintain your homes integrity and to avoid repercussions of hurricanes season, even something as simple as mold.

Next, it is highly advised to keep current a hurricane preparedness box. Consider adding a flashlight, batteries to fit the light, water, peanut butter, crackers, other non-perishable food items, a change of clothes, and a first aid kit equipped with; bandaids, gauze, and alcohol pads. Some more modern things to consider would be a portable charger. You can find these at most stores like Walmart or Target. These will help in an emergency if you were to lose power and needed to charge your phone! Include a USB with it and make sure the portable charger is charged once you get notice of a hurricane approaching. Another item to consider is a battery-charged fan to keep cool if your home were to lose power. More obsolete things to add may include board games, books, and coloring materials to bypass time. Another key item to include is cash. When a power outage strikes, it is not possible to use debit or credit cards. Make sure you have enough cash for more than one tank of gas, and various supplies you may need to pick up. If you already have a box, check expiration dates and functionality of items. It is one thing to make the box, it is another to be able to utilize its contents! Your safety and peace of mind is our priority.

Red Cross advises that you and your family, or tenants in your home, prepare for hurricanes by creating a safety plan! This includes what to do and where to go if a hurricane were to make it to your area. Also, be aware there is a difference between homeowners insurance and flood insurance. Be aware of which you have, and which you may need. Additional tips via the Red Cross can be found here.

The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1st through November 30th. North Carolina State Researchers are predicting a normal hurricane season. Be prepared today so you are not regretful tomorrow, and it all starts with your coverage.