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Brace Yourself: Hurricane Season Is Here! Important Facts and Tips for Hurricane Awareness

As the winds start to pick up and the skies darken, it's crucial to be well-informed and prepared for the potential impact of these powerful storms. You may have some questions and we have some answers. First thing first – what is a hurricane? 

Understanding Hurricanes:

Hurricanes are intense tropical storms characterized by strong winds and heavy rainfall. They typically form over warm ocean waters and are classified by their sustained wind speeds. Here are some key terms to know:

Tropical Depression: A storm with maximum sustained winds of up to 38 miles per hour (mph).

Tropical Storm: A storm with maximum sustained winds between 39 and 73 mph.

Hurricane: A storm with maximum sustained winds of 74 mph or higher.

Eye: The center of a hurricane with calm weather and sometimes clear skies.

Eyewall: The ring of intense thunderstorms surrounding the eye, where the strongest winds and heaviest rainfall occur.

Hurricane Season:

The Atlantic hurricane season officially runs from June 1st to November 30th. However, it's important to note that hurricanes can occur outside this timeframe, so remaining vigilant throughout the year is crucial, especially if you live in hurricane-prone regions.

Preparedness Tips:

a) Create an Emergency Kit: Put together a well-stocked emergency kit that includes essential items such as non-perishable food, water, batteries, flashlights, a first aid kit, medications, important documents, and a battery-powered radio.

b) Develop an Evacuation Plan: Familiarize yourself with evacuation routes in your area and create a plan for your family. Identify safe locations to go to if evacuation is necessary, such as shelters or the homes of family or friends outside the storm's path.

c) Secure Your Property: Trim trees, secure loose outdoor objects, and reinforce windows and doors. Consider investing in hurricane shutters or impact-resistant windows to protect against high winds and flying debris.

d) Stay Informed: Monitor weather reports and updates from local authorities. Have a battery-powered or hand-cranked radio on hand to stay connected if the power goes out.

e) Insurance Coverage: Review your insurance policies, including homeowner's insurance and flood insurance, to ensure you have adequate coverage for hurricane-related damages.

During a Hurricane:

a) Stay Indoors: Seek shelter indoors and avoid windows, skylights, and glass doors. If you're in a multi-story building, stay on the lower levels away from the windows.

b) Listen to Authorities: Follow instructions from local authorities, including evacuation orders, and cooperate with emergency responders.

c) Emergency Communication: Keep your mobile phones charged and limit non-essential phone usage to conserve battery. Use text messages instead of calls as they can often get through during high network congestion.

d) Water Safety: Avoid walking or driving through floodwaters, as they can be deceptively deep and hide dangerous debris. Remember, "Turn Around, Don't Drown."

Conclusion:

Hurricane season can be a challenging time, but with proper preparation and awareness, you can significantly reduce the risks and ensure the safety of yourself and your loved ones. Stay informed, make a plan, and be ready to act if necessary. By taking these precautions, you'll be better equipped to face any hurricane that comes your way. Stay safe!

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I have had a last 5 months to forget. During this Covid pandemic so many people have negative memories of the year gone by. One bright memory to remember is the caring, kindness, and efficient attention showed to me by Karen S.  at the Philadelphia Contributorship. I am thankful and...

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In August, at age 79, we bought our dream house. In October we learned the sewer system was comletely destroyed and a sinkhole had formed under our house. We had only had our insurance with the Philadelphia Contributionship for 2 months when this happened. I checked our coverage with Karen...

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During the most recent storm, I experience property damage. I called my insurance carrier and was quickly assigned to Laurie D, she went out of her way to ensure I understood the process. She demonstrated patience and compassion when explaining the process and next steps. Additionally, after giving me very...

Sherwin A. Williamstown, NJ 08094

I have had a last 5 months to forget. During this Covid pandemic so many people have negative memories of the year gone by. One bright memory to remember is the caring, kindness, and efficient attention showed to me by Karen S.  at the Philadelphia Contributorship. I am thankful and...

Yovanny M. East Stroudsburg, PA 18301

In August, at age 79, we bought our dream house. In October we learned the sewer system was comletely destroyed and a sinkhole had formed under our house. We had only had our insurance with the Philadelphia Contributionship for 2 months when this happened. I checked our coverage with Karen...

Tori H. Camp Hill, PA 17011

During the most recent storm, I experience property damage. I called my insurance carrier and was quickly assigned to Laurie D, she went out of her way to ensure I understood the process. She demonstrated patience and compassion when explaining the process and next steps. Additionally, after giving me very...

Sherwin A. Williamstown, NJ 08094

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