Hurricane Preparedness 101
A hurricane poses a great threat to life and property. In light of the devastation caused by Hurricane Harvey and the possibility that Hurricane Irma may affect South Floridians here is a list to help protect not only your life and property but your legal interests as well:
Make sure important documents such as SSA cards, insurance, birth certificates, etc., are stored in a safe place, use a zip lock bag and e-mail copies to yourself
Store enough food and water to sustain yourself and your family for at least three days
Make sure you fill the tank in your car
Store any loose items in your front and back yards somewhere secure like a warehouse, storage unit, or inside your home
Keep your pets inside your home
Place ID tags on your pets
Refill your prescriptions
Prepare your home with shutters and surge protectors
Withdraw cash from the bank
Dispose of household and yard trash before the storm
Prune trees on your property
Know where the nearest Hurricane Shelter is located
If you need to evacuate, remember to bring your bedding, water, prescriptions, personal hygiene products, snacks, and extra clothing
If flooding threatens your home, turn off electricity from the main breaker
Report price gauging by dialing, 311
If your home suffers damages, contact your insurance carrier immediately
If you are affected by a natural disaster chances are you’ll need an attorney to defend your insurance claim, be weary of lawyers soliciting your business, make sure you hire someone you trust
If you have a family attorney, contact them instead to discuss recourse and legal rights after a natural disaster. If you don’t have a family attorney, do your research and speak to someone you trust. It is imperative that you and your family create a disaster kit and discuss safety procedures prior to the storm.
If you or a loved one needs further assistance or is adversely affected by the storm please do not hesitate to contact our office at Dania S. Fernandez & Associates, P.A. 305-254-4492.
Sincerely,
Nathalie Santos, Esq.