The Sunshine State, unfortunately, also happens to be the hurricane capital of the U.S. Florida sees an average of seven hurricanes each year.
Now that the country is one month into the Atlantic Hurricane season, it may be a good time to be vigilant of the dangers your home may face.
Hurricanes can be devastating
Hurricanes can batter your home with powerful winds and torrential rains. This can lead to:
- Water damage: Powerful and slow-moving hurricanes can cause heavy rainfall. This may result in heavy flooding. A flood may jeopardize the structural integrity of your home, waterlog your personal belongings and your vehicle or even contaminate drinking water sources. Damp conditions from flooding are also known to cause mold growth which may increase the risk of health problems.
- Wind damage: Hurricanes can bring powerful gusts that could damage the roof of your home or even peel it off and send it flying. Strong winds can also pick up debris which may crash into windows, shattering them. Meanwhile, hurricane winds could also knock over power lines and uproot trees that could possibly topple onto your home.
While hurricanes can severely damage your home and even endanger your health, there are ways you and your family can get ready.
Prepare yourself for a storm
If you know that a hurricane is coming, there are some options available to you that may reduce the risks. Consider:
- Preparing an emergency kit with food, water, clothing and other survival essentials
- Moving vehicles to high ground
- Boarding up windows and reinforcing doors
- Clearing out your home’s gutters and drains
- Securing your valuables and electronics somewhere safe and elevated
As Florida makes its way through another hurricane season, it is important to take measures to protect yourself, your loved ones and your home from danger. However, it is still important to know that if a storm causes damage to your home, you may be able to seek compensation.