Natural disasters are uncalled-for calamities. These have the potential to wreak havoc over the area. According to reports, a significant number of people have to suffer every year due to natural disasters such as hurricanes, tornadoes, earthquakes, hailstorms, and more.
In such testing times, a person’s first instinct is to prevent their family from any damage. In addition, they want to keep their home safe. Whether it is an earthquake or storm-prone area, the odds of getting your home damaged are on the higher side. Therefore, it is best to stay prepared for such emergencies.
Natural disasters bring panic. However, as a family, you must stand together and face the situation. Only preparedness and presence of mind can help you through and after a disaster.
This article mentions vital information to help you stay prepared. You can take these steps to take charge of the situation after the disaster passes. In simple words, it is a brief guide on how to ensure your family and home safety in post-emergency situations.
Well, then, what are we waiting for? Let’s cut to the chase and Read on!
- Ensure Everybody is Safe Around You
The first consideration after a natural calamity is the health and safety of your loved ones. You must have an emergency kit prepared for such situations. It is helpful to have one if you evacuate before the storm. You should keep medicines, canned food, and some batteries to evacuate safely.
All the essential papers should be kept in a fire-safe box to ensure you can keep them handy when leaving in a hurry. Many people hand-cranked radios to locate the nearby medical centers and shelter facilities. Likewise, if you get stuck in a calamity, such as a hurricane or hail storm, you should ensure that everybody in the house is safe. If there is a need, connect with medical facilities as soon as possible.
- Access Damage and File a Claim
The next step after getting medical aid is to assess the home damage. You should start from the outside and look into every nook & corner on the inside. You may also want to take photos of the damage to ensure that you have ample evidence. For instance, if a hurricane is in your area, you’ll see a lot of damage at home. The law firms for hurricane insurance disputes suggest filing a claim at the earliest time to help prove the damage. It is easier to get the deserving amount from the insurance companies. The adjuster from insurance companies tends to deny the damage or offer a meager settlement amount. Therefore, speaking with them through an attorney shall be helpful for you.
The photos, home documentation, and other essential papers shall be required to strengthen your case. Also, speak with hurricane insurance lawyers to know within how many days you should be filing the claim. There is a set period for the same. In addition, attorneys can help you understand the damages that your insurance policy covers, which the adjuster may try to act smart on.
- Make Temporary Repairs
After you have submitted the documents and taken pictures of all the damages, you must make repairs. Until you find a reasonable and good contractor, you can make temporary adjustments, such as putting a tarp over the roof to keep out the rain, wind, and sun. Similarly, if the doors are damaged, you must repair or add new hinges to keep the thieves away.
As a calamity hits the area, the chances of people trespassing and stealing stuff become common. Therefore, it is essential to make the temporary repairs as soon as possible. Likewise, if the home is not liveable, you should remove the valuable items and secure them in storage services. Most storage units in Darlington have secure locks, alarms, and other security features that can help keep your items safe from theft or damage. When you store your items in a storage unit, you can rest assured that they will be safe from the effects of natural disasters. Later, find a contractor and get the renovation done.
- Keep track of Expenses
It is necessary to get emergency repairs done to save the home from further damage. In addition, it is essential to make the house fit for living after a disaster. However, it is necessary to keep track of all the expenses. It would help if you kept the receipts and invoices safe with you.
If you have already filed a claim, it would be great to submit a copy of the bills with the attorney. They will use them to settle the case with the insurer. If you still need to file the lawsuit, the best is to keep the bills in a safe place. It helps claim damages or use them later when any government authority requires it.
Bottom Line
It is true that natural disasters are complex and create challenging situations for everyone. However, keeping calm and prepared will help you manage the situation well. We hope the above information acts as a guide if you or someone you know gets stuck in any such problem.
