Hurricane season began on June 1. Now is the time for Florida residents to put together an emergency kit, create an evacuation plan, and take other steps to prepare.
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — In observance of Hurricane Preparedness Week, the Florida Department of Financial Services (DFS) is sharing essential tips and resources to help Floridians strengthen their disaster plans as the 2025 hurricane season kicks off.
While storms are a regular part of life in Florida, proactive planning can significantly reduce their impact and help you recover more quickly. Key steps such as assembling an emergency kit, creating an evacuation plan, and safeguarding your home can make all the difference.
By staying informed and taking timely precautions, Floridians can navigate hurricane season with confidence and resilience, ensuring a smoother transition back to normalcy after a storm.
**Hurricane Preparedness Tips**
1. **Secure Flood Insurance**: Standard homeowners' policies do not cover flood damage. If you live in a flood-prone area, contact your insurance agent to explore flood coverage options. Florida has over 30 private insurers offering flood insurance, and you may also qualify for the federally backed National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).
2. **Review/Update Coverage**: Your home and possessions may have increased in value or undergone improvements over the years. Review your insurance policy to ensure your coverage limits are adequate for current replacement costs.
3. **Add Extra Living Expense Coverage**: Many homeowners' policies include coverage for additional living expenses if your home becomes uninhabitable. This can help cover costs such as motel stays, dining, and storage during repairs. Confirm that these protections are in place.
4. **Act Before a Storm Approaches**: Insurance providers generally do not accept new applications or changes once a hurricane is near. Since most flood policies take about 30 days to become effective, securing or updating your coverage now is crucial before storm threats arise.
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