Hurricanes are strong natural calamities that can lead to disastrous effects and long-term impacts. When the storm is over, people mainly worry about their safety and start the process of recovering from it.

In our last post, we reminded you that being too prepared for a hurricane is impossible. In previous posts, we shared hurricane preparedness tips and tips on preparing.

In this post, we want to share some things to do after a hurricane hits.

Safety First

Your safety and the safety of your loved ones are paramount. Even though the storm has passed, hazards like downed power lines, flooding, and structural damage remain.

• Stay indoors until it’s safe. Wait for official word that it’s safe to go outside. Even after the storm has passed, dangers like flooding, debris, and downed power lines may be present.
• Avoid floodwaters. Floodwater contains other materials such as sewage, chemicals, and other solid materials that are washed by floodwater. Remember that one should not wade through or drive a vehicle through flooded areas. Only 6 inches of fast-moving water can easily throw a person off balance, and one foot of water can, in the same way, carry away a car.
• Watch out for debris. After a storm, sharp objects such as broken glass, kitchen knives, and other debris may lie on the ground.

Assess the Damage

As soon as the danger has passed, start evaluating the situation and determining the extent of the destruction of the home and property. It is vital to keep a record of the losses in case of filing an insurance claim.

• Inspect your home and property. Check for major defects laid bare by the storm, including a defective foundation, damaged shingles, and broken glass. First, rinse any accessible organic matter from the surfaces of the hands using clean water and ensure that there is no water damage and no mold on the surfaces of the hands.
• Look for structural issues, such as foundation cracks, missing shingles, or broken windows. Also, check for water damage and any signs of mold growth.
• Take photos and videos. Document all the damage carefully. It’ll be essential when you file insurance claims. Take pictures of your home’s exterior and interior, and don’t forget to include any damaged personal belongings.

Contact Your Insurance Company

After assessing the damage, it’s time to contact your insurance company.

• Report the damage. Contact your insurance agent as soon as possible to report the damage. Make sure to share the documentation you’ve collected, such as photos and videos.
• Understand your coverage. Don’t assume you know what’s in your policy. Look it over to get a clear idea of what’s covered and what your deductible is.
• Keep records. Record all communication with the insurance company, whether phone calls or emails. Also, keep any receipts for expenses related to the storm, like temporary repairs or lodging.

Seek Assistance

Recovering from a hurricane can be overwhelming, but help is available.

• Contact local authorities. Your local government can help remove debris and provide temporary housing and other necessary resources.
• Apply for Federal Aid. If the hurricane has been declared a federal disaster, you may be eligible for assistance from FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency). Visit their website or call their hotline to apply.
• Reach out to non-profit groups. Organizations like the Red Cross and The Salvation Army provide food, shelter, and other support.

Dealing with the aftermath of a hurricane can feel overwhelming, but taking the proper steps right after the storm can help your recovery. Focus on staying safe, documenting the damage, and getting help when needed. With some time and effort, you can start to rebuild and bring things back to normal.

Other helpful articles:

How to Secure Your Garage During a Hurricane

What’s the difference between a hurricane and a tropical storm?