Being Prepared for Hurricane Season
June 1 through November 30
Dear Valued AJM Customer,
The 2012 Hurricane Season is upon us, officially beginning June 1, 2012 and continuing through November 30, 2012. AJM wants to help you be prepared and informed about how to protect your home and family should your area experience a damaging storm.
According to the National Hurricane Center (www.nhc.noaa.gov/prepare), “Hurricane hazards come in many forms, including storm surge, heavy rainfall, inland flooding, high winds, tornadoes, and rip currents. The National Weather Service is responsible for protecting life and property through issuance of timely watches and warnings, but it is essential that your family be ready before a storm approaches. Furthermore, mariners should be aware of special safety precautions when confronted with a hurricane.”
There are several things you can take care of now to help prepare you and your family ahead of the storm:
* We recommend that you take some time to review your Homeowners policy to make sure it is up-to-date and includes coverage in the event of a hurricane or any of the conditions listed above. The last thing you want to do is wait until a storm is approaching, or for a “Watch” or “Warning” to be issued, as insurance companies will NOT bind new or increased coverage that includes property or auto physical damage coverage during the time an advisory has been issued and typically also 48 hours after it is lifted.
* Know the difference between a “Watch” and a “Warning” as issued by the National Weather Service.
* “Watch” – lets you know that weather conditions are favorable for a hazard to occur. Literally this means to be on guard, to watch the weather conditions and talk with your family about your protective plans.
* “Warning” - requires immediate action, as it means that the weather hazard is imminent, for example a hurricane is approaching the area, or a tornado has been spotted. This means you must act, get your family to safety.
* Have contact information (local emergency management, fire/rescue, hospitals, insurance agent), a disaster supplies kit (water, non-perishable food, first aid kit, etc) and a plan in place. The National Hurricane Center website is an excellent resource on how to prepare. Please visit http://www.nhc.noaa.gove/prepare/ready.php for a sample action plan, list of contact information, disaster supplies, and how to construct a family emergency plan.
Everyone needs to be prepared for the unexpected… we want to help you do just that. To be sure your insurance coverage fits your needs in the case of a disaster, please contact us at AJM by calling 856-795-4020.
For more information on understanding the risks and major hazards associated with hurricanes, as well how to be prepared in the event of a storm, visit The National Hurricane Center website: http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/prepare/ .