Recovering from a Hurricane

Protecting you and your family

• Check people around you for injuries. Begin first aid or seek help, if necessary.
  
  
• When you go outside, watch out for downed power lines.
  
  
• Beware of fire hazards such as broken gas lines and flooded electrical circuits.

Protecting your property

• Make temporary repairs. Keep all receipts for work done on your property. Most insurance companies cover reasonable expenses.
  
  
• Notify your insurance agent or company representative as soon as possible. If you have vacated the premises, make sure your representative knows where to contact you.
  
  
• Take pictures of damaged property and keep notes. Use pictures and inventory lists to help your insurance agent and adjuster assess the damages.
  
  
• Don't be rushed into signing repair contracts. Deal with reputable contractors. If you're unsure about a contractor's credentials, contact your claims adjuster, Better Business Bureau or Chamber of Commerce for referrals. Make sure the contractor you hire is experienced in repair work - not just new construction. Be sure of payment terms and consult your agent or adjuster before you sign any contracts.

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