TIPS AND TOOLS

Storm Prep 101

Storm Prep 101

If a hurricane strikes, we want you to be as prepared as possible. Sure, we can guarantee that your possessions will be restored, but we also want you and your family to be safe. Knowing a few tips on how to prepare for a storm and what to do in its aftermath can dramatically reduce your risk of harm and expedite the recovery process.

Please select a list below to get started.

PRE-HURRICANE CHECKLIST

HARDWARE ITEMS

  • Extra batteries.
  • Manual can and bottle openers.
  • Folding stove, oven mitts.
  • A battery-operated radio and/or television along with extra batteries.
  • Battery-operated lanterns and enough flashlights for each member of the family, plus extra batteries and bulbs.
  • Duct tape.
  • Lightweight fire extinguishers.
  • Wrench to turn off household gas and water. Keep it near the shut-off valves.  
  • Chain saw, gassed up, oiled and ready.
  • Generator.

HOUSEWARES

  • Plastic trash bags with ties and large, sealable plastic bags. Use them to protect important documents, furniture, clothing, blankets and pillows.
  • Paper towels, plates, bowls, cups, detergent and plastic utensils.
  • Toilet paper and personal hygiene supplies like shampoo, toothbrush, toothpaste, soap and tampons.
  • Baby supplies such as baby food, diapers and formula.
  • Matches in a waterproof container.
  • Camera film for ''before'' and ''after'' pictures.
  • Plain chlorine bleach or iodine.
  • Clean, empty containers for storing drinking water: at least one gallon per person per day.
  • Ice chests or coolers.
  • Pet supplies, such as cat litter, a scooper and any medicine.
  • Bug spray.

FOOD

  • Milk. Choose evaporated, dry powder or shelf-stable varieties.
  • Canned foods like vegetables, soups, fish, meats, fruits and fruit juice.
  • Peanut butter and jelly.
  • Bread, crackers, cookies, other baked goods.
  • Cereal and granola bars.
  • Dried fruits and nuts.
  • Bottled water.
  • Vitamins.
  • Instant drink mixes (coffee, tea, etc.).
  • Pet food and bowls.

PRE-STORM TIPS

  • Purchase the hardware items listed in the Pre-Hurricane Checklist ahead of time. If you wait until the last minute, some essential items may not be available.
  • Store your essential storm items in an easy-to-carry container.
  • Keep some cash on hand. Financial institutions normally close for at least two days after a direct hit. ATMs may be out even longer.
  • Complete a household inventory, and send the list to yourself by e-mail so that you'll be able to access it from other locations if you can't get back into your home.
  • Be sure to also have your Edison Insurance policy number handy.
  • Carry a list of important phone numbers with you, including the Edison Insurance claims number: (888) 683-7971.

POST-STORM TIPS

  • More people are injured in a storm’s aftermath than during the actual event so remain in a secure location until the authorities indicate that it is safe to venture outside.
  • Avoid downed power lines, sharp objects, and dangerous debris - these are the most common culprits.
  • Do not use power generators indoors or in any enclosed area.
  • Report your claim immediately by calling our toll-free claims number: (888) 683-7971.
  • Take photos of the damage prior to making temporary repairs.
  • ONLY if safe to do so, make temporary repairs as necessary to prevent further damage and protect your property.
  • Consider contacting a water extraction company to dry out your dwelling.
  • Keep detailed receipts and present them to the adjuster.