Staying Prepared for Hurricane Season

As Hurricane Beryl recently proved, hurricane season is upon us once again. During this time of year, ensuring both your physical safety and financial stability is paramount. At Linscomb Wealth, we recognize the importance of being prepared, so we've crafted this reference guide to help you navigate the uncertainties of hurricane season. By taking these proactive steps, you can protect your family, home, and financial well-being.

1. Create an Emergency Plan

• Evacuation Routes: Know the safest and quickest routes out of your area.
• Communication Plan: Establish how family members will stay in touch and where you will meet if separated.
• Emergency Contacts: Compile a list of important phone numbers, including local emergency services, family members, and your financial advisor at Linscomb Wealth.

2. Build an Emergency Kit 

• Water and Non-Perishable Food: Stock enough for each family member, including pets.
• Medical Supplies: Include first aid items, prescription medications, and any necessary medical equipment.
• Important Documents: Keep copies of important documents such as identification, insurance policies, and financial records in a waterproof safe.
• Vehicle Preparation: Fill your car's gas tank to ensure you can evacuate if necessary. If you have an electric car, make sure its battery is fully charged.
• Other Essentials: Gather flashlights, batteries, a multi-tool, blankets, hygiene items, and a portable phone charger with respective cables.

3. Secure Your Home

• Reinforce Windows and Doors: Install storm shutters or plywood to protect windows. Ensure doors are secure.
• Clear Outdoor Areas: Remove or secure outdoor furniture, decorations, and any loose items that could become projectiles.
• Check Your Roof: Ensure your roof is in good condition and repair any loose shingles or tiles.
• Elevate your belongings: Move important personal belongings or keepsakes to a second floor or as high as possible.
  
  

4. Review and Update Insurance Coverage

• Policy Limits: Ensure your coverage limits reflect the current value of your home and belongings.
• Flood Insurance: Standard homeowners insurance typically does not cover flood damage. If you live in a flood-prone area, consider purchasing flood insurance, keeping in mind that there is usually a 30-day waiting period before it takes effect.
• Document Inventory: Take an inventory of your possessions, including photos and receipts, to facilitate the claims process.

5. Protect Important Financial Documents

• Digital Copies: Store digital copies of important documents in a secure cloud-based service.
• Hard Copies: Keep physical copies in a waterproof and fireproof safe.
• Contact Information: Have your financial advisor and insurance agent's contact information readily available.

6. Develop a Financial Emergency Plan

• Emergency Fund: Maintain an emergency fund with at least three to six months' worth of living expenses.
• Cash on Hand: Keep some cash in small denominations in case ATMs and credit card systems are down.
• Bill Payments: Set up automatic bill payments to ensure continuity during an evacuation or power outage.

7. Stay Informed

• Weather Alerts: Sign up for local weather alerts and notifications from trusted sources.
• Evacuation Orders: Follow evacuation orders promptly to ensure your safety and that of your family.

Take it from me, a Houston wealth advisor and wife of a meteorologist: hurricane season can be daunting. However, with careful planning and preparation, you can minimize its impact on your life. Always remember that being proactive is key when it comes to disaster preparedness. Stay informed about weather updates and any potential threats in your area. Take the necessary steps now so that if a hurricane does strike, you are ready both physically and financially.

For personalized financial guidance, reach out to your advisor or contact our team. For expert insights into hurricane preparedness, be sure to bookmark this helpful resource from the National Weather Service.