We Know How Bad Hurricanes Can Be. Are You Prepared?

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.

Know What Your Insurance Covers and How Much You Need

Homeowner’s insurance 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. 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.
Review your insurance policy once a year to make sure you have enough coverage to rebuild based on current construction costs.
Work with an independent building contractor to get a precise estimate, and talk to your agent about your building’s unique features.

Flood Damage from Hurricanes Isn’t Covered by Property Insurance

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

Act Now to Reduce Damage Later

Install storm shutters.
Remove yard debris, like dead tree limbs, that could become flying missiles.
Have a safe place to park your cars and/or store your boat.
Make sure you, your family, and/or employees know how to shut off utilities.
Back up computer records and store them at least 50 miles offsite.
Gather important papers, including inventory lists and insurance information to take with you if you must evacuate.

In the Path of a Hurricane?

Indoors

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.

Driving

Avoid washed out and wet roads that can hide downed electrical lines or underlying currents that can carry your vehicle away.

Other Resources

Getting the right insurance protection for you:

To view PDF files, you'll need the Adobe® Acrobat® Reader, free for download from Adobe.