A Message from the Insurance Commissioner

Hurricane Season is upon us! Are your home and belongings protected in case a storm hits? The Atlantic hurricane season begins June 1. That’s the time when a hurricane or a tropical storm is most likely to form in the Atlantic Ocean due to the rise in water temperature. As a result, North Carolinians -- especially those who live near the coast – may feel the destructive power of high winds, torrential rains and massive flooding.

Don't be a victim!

The best time to prepare is now – protect yourself and your valuables before the seasons begins. It is imperative to understand your home’s vulnerability so you can know how to shore up.

1. Do you have flood insurance? Even if you don’t live in a flood zone, your home may experience flood damage due to rising waters.  It takes 30 days for a flood insurance policy to take effect, so contact your agent to enact your policy now.
2. Update your insurance.  Check your insurance policy ahead of the storm to see what is covered. Know where your insurance documents are located and take them with you in case you need to evacuate.
3. Do you have an evacuation plan? Plan your route now and have an alternative. Leave when ordered to do so and communicate your plan with someone who is not in the storm’s path.
4. Don’t forget your pets! Most local shelters do not permit them, so make sure there is a safe place for them as well.
5.  Is your home protected? Keep trees around your home trimmed to prevent damage from broken branches. Have the proper materials in advance to board up your windows to protect them from flying debris. Bring loose outdoor items such as patio furniture inside. Secure all doors on your property. Remember the garage door is usually the most vulnerable. Move your car inside a garage or to another secure location. Know where to take shelter in the interior portion of a well-built structure in case high winds or a tornado suddenly strike.
6. Do you know how to access storm information?  Tune to your trusted local news source – whether it is television, radio, phone apps or social media – and listen closely to local officials for guidance. You can also access information from weather.gov or ready.gov.
7. Put together an emergency kit.  Check emergency equipment such as flashlights, generators and storm shutters. Have food, water and medicines ready to take with you in case of an evacuation.
8. Make a home inventory. Take pictures of your home, valuables and other items to have on hand to show your agent in case of damage.

It has been said “preparation time is never wasted time.” I encourage you to take time now to prepare for the upcoming hurricane season so you won’t be caught off guard and lose the things most precious to you. For more information, visit https://www.ncdoi.gov/disaster.

Mike Causey

N.C. Insurance Commissioner and State Fire Marshal