Hurricane Earl...

September 1, 2010

You have heard the news... a Hurricane is coming...

What does that mean for Cape Codders? Tape the windows, stock up on water, batteries, lanterns, food and games...

Many Cape Codders remember Hurricane Bob and the damage he did. I was only 8 years old, but I remember driving around Falmouth with my dad after Bob hit to survey the damage. The Shining Sea Bike Path was destroyed, boats were washed up all over Falmouth, tidal surges flooded homes, houses were damaged, trees were down, power was out... In fact, according to Wikipedia Hurricane Bob caused $1 billion in damages in Massachusetts!

Here are a few images from Hurricane Bob.

Vineyard Haven Flooding at the Five Corners, Martha's Vineyard, MA

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Menauhant Road Bridge after Hurricane BobThe beach eroded and sand covered the road.

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The path of Hurricane Bob

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View of Hurricane Bob from above

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Now these images are posted to educate...
It's been almost 20 years since a major storm hit Cape Cod. Many weather reporters and forecasters enjoy the hype of a pending storm, but it's important to heed when there's a hurricane warning. Better safe than sorry.

Red Cross puts out a Hurricane Safety Checklist. It can be found here.

A few tips taken from the checklist:

What to do?

  • Fill up with gas
  • Put away outdoor furniture
  • Have an evacuation plan
  • Know that your HOMEOWNER policy DOES NOT cover FLOOD

What to buy?

  • Water
  • Food
  • Flashlight
  • Batteries

What happens after?

  • Listen to the radio
  • Drive only if necessary
  • Keep away from power lines
  • Inspect your home for damage

Homeowners INSURANCE Recommendations

  • Before the storm, find a copy of your insurance policy and review it
  • After the storm, survey the damage to your home
  • Is your home liveable?
  • Is the damage more than your windstorm/hurricane deductible (typically 1%, 2% or 5% of Coverage A)?
  • Prevent further damage (board up a window, cover the roof with wood or a tarp, etc).
  • Take pictures of the damage - this is especially helpful when there are many claims. Insurance adjusters won't be able to come right away if there are MANY claims due to a hurricane. Pictures with the date and time are invaluable.
  • If the damage is MORE than your windstorm/hurricane deductible, you may need to submit a claim, however know that your local agent might be busy taking many claims. Your local agent may place claims in the order of NEED. If someone can't live in their home, that person will come before someone who wants to have their fence, swimming pool, garage or shed repaired.
  • Have the necessary information handy when you call your agent:
    • Copy of your policy
    • Date damage happened
    • Brief description of damage
    • Best way an insurance adjuster can reach you (home phone, cell phone, email, etc)
    • Offer to email pictures you took of the damage
    • Be respectful: of course it is upsetting to have your home and belongings damaged, realize your insurance agent is working for you and is doing their best to take care of your needs as fast as possible.

I will end with an old saying about hurricanes...

June, too soon.July, stand by.August, if you must.September, REMEMBER!October, ALL OVER!