Orlando, Fla.—Now that we are finally in the process to slowly start going back to normal after the health emergency caused by COVID-19, we need to start getting ready for Hurricane Season 2020, especially those of us with homes in Florida.

In order to prepare for the season, which officially begins in June 1st, we were recently granted the opportunity to buy tax exempt hurricane supplies to start the process early and avoid last minute shortages, and most importantly, the customary unscrupulous price gauging that occurs when choices are limited.

Normally, we talk about the different tasks that must be performed in order to prepare your property, to protect it from strong winds and heavy rain, plus the supplies necessary to sustain your family before the possibility of power outages, lack of drinking water, and non-drinking water needed to keep good hygiene, especially now during this pandemic time.  

A basic emergency supply kit should include:

Water – a gallon per person per day, for drinking and sanitation, or 10 gallons per person

Food – at least a 10 day supply of non-perishable food per person

Non-electric can opener

Pet food and extra water

Moist towelettes, garbage bags and paper towels

Prescription and over-the-counter medications

Cell phone with chargers and a backup battery

Propane gas

Batteries

Flashlights or solar lamps

But, to begin this hurricane season with the right foot, it is important to highlight the importance of preparing your finances as well.

SOME FEMA RECOMENDATIONS INCLUDE

• Keep cash for fuel and supplies in a safe place, in the event that ATMs become inoperable after a hurricane. Create a budget for disaster-related expenses. 
• Estimate costs of insurance deductibles, possible mandatory evacuations and essentials like food, clothing, shelter, gas and emergency medical assistance.
• Documenting finances before an emergency will save you time and stress when registering for disaster assistance, if necessary.
• Build an emergency fund. Creating a habit of saving regularly to be financially prepared for hurricane seasons can be a lifestyle saver.
• Review your insurance coverage. Make sure your policy covers all your family specific needs. Homeowners insurance does not typically cover flooding, so you may need to purchase flood insurance.
• Keep safe copies of important documents like stock and bond certificates; IRA or 401(k) account numbers; bank statements; and tax records, including W2s and important receipts. Consider wrapping them in plastic to protect against water damage. Upload digital copies of important disaster-related expenses.
• Take care of your urgent financial issues. Contact lenders, creditors, and banks to let them know of the situation in case of a hurricane warning. Also, make a list of places that may provide financial assistance in case you need it after the disaster.

Other important investments you must keep well secured and protected during these kind of weather emergencies are your vehicles, boats, and RV’s. Also, if you have rental properties, now is the time to review your landlord insurance coverage.

Let your local insurance specialists at Orlando Insurance Center help you save in the purchase of insurance bundles before the next storm hits.  Give us a call today at (407) 680-1214— for an initial consultation and quotes from among 20 different insurance carriers who support us! 

Office Manager

iraida [at] orlandoinsurancecenter [dot] com

407-680-1214 ext. 500