Private Risk Advisor

The old adage “the calm after the storm” does NOT ALWAYS apply after a hurricane has caused significant damage.  

Understanding that we are all focused on making advance preparations for Hurricane Irene’s arrival, several I spoke with yesterday asked me what they should be doing AFTER the hurricane passes.   While many of these suggestions are common sense, I offer them as a reminder, and encourage you to know in advance what to do after the storm has passed.  

• If you have evacuated, wait until authorities tell you it’s safe before returning home.

• Be alert for tornadoes.

• Stay away from flood waters.

• Use a flashlight. Do not light matches or turn on electrical switches.

• Sniff for gas leaks. If you smell gas or suspect a leak, turn off the main gas valve, open windows and evacuate. If you have any concerns, have the gas system checked by a professional.

• Do not touch wires or outlets.

• Check for frayed cords and for cracked or broken prongs and plugs.

• Turn off the main electrical circuit switch. Be careful to stand on a dry surface and do not touch the metal handle of the switch box. Use a piece of heavy rubber, plastic or a piece of dry wood to open the metal door and throw the switch. Share your concerns with a licensed electrician.

• Watch for holes in the floor, loose boards or hanging plaster.

• If your home has been flooded, check for snakes and other animals that may have entered the property.

• Before you start cleaning up debris, prepare an inventory of all damaged or destroyed personal property. If you can, videotape or photograph the damage.

• Make temporary repairs to prevent further damage.

• Clean up any flammable or poisonous materials that may have been spilled.

• Dispose of all spoiled food immediately. If you have insurance coverage for spoiled food, document your losses.

• Hold off on permanent repairs until you’ve received approval for reimbursement.

• Save remnants of damaged or destroyed property for your insurance company adjuster, and do not sign agreements with contractors or anyone else until you have a chance to meet with your insurance adjuster.

• Keep a written record of everyone you talk to about your insurance claim, including the date of the conversation and a summary of what was said.

• Keep all receipts.

• Your pre-disaster home inventory will be of great assistance to you at this point. After you’ve examined everything and determined the extent of damage, call your insurance agent “as soon as possible” to file a claim.