FLA. CFO: “PREPARE NOW FOR HURRICANES”

After an un-precedented hurricane season last year and experts predicting the formation of more than 13 named Atlantic storms this season, Florida’s Chief Financial Officer Tom Gallagher has issued a warning to prepare now. The official start of hurricane season was June 1 and it ends Nov. 30.

Gallagher advised Floridians to take steps to strengthen their homes to better protect their families and properties and reduce the level of catastrophic losses. “It pays to better protect your home from a hurricane,” Gallagher said.

He also suggested nine storm-preparation tips: 1) Don’t wait until the last minute to buy coverage. 2) Know whether your policy pays the “replacement cost” or “actual cash value” for a covered loss. 3) Be sure you know what your deductible is for hurricane losses. 4) Consider your law and ordinance coverage. 5) Inventory your household items, including receipts, purchase dates and serial numbers. 6) Write down the name, address and claims-reporting telephone number of your insurance company, which may differ from your agent’s contact information. 7) When a hurricane threatens, take action to protect your property. 8) Remember to withdraw money BEFORE a pending natural disaster. 9) Keep materials such as plywood and plastic on hand in case you need to make temporary repairs after a storm.