Understanding Hurricanes

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  A hurricane forms over ocean waters initially as a tropical depression, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, that develops into a tropical storm when the winds reach 55 mph. Once an eye forms and winds reach 74 mph, the storm develops into a hurricane. Scientists created the to measure the intensity of hurricanes. Ranging from category 1 to category 5 on the Saffir-Simpson Scale, hurricanes pose a threat to life and property.
  
  

Before the Storm

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  Once officials announce a hurricane watch, listen to local radio and television reports for storm status updates. Begin preparations to protect your property as soon as officials upgrade to a hurricane warning. Board up your windows or secure hurricane shutters if you have them. Put away any loose items outdoors including grills, lawn furniture and toys. Turn off your electricity and water if instructed to do so in order to prevent accidents during the storm. When lightning strikes power lines and races into wall sockets of your home, it causes power surges. Any appliance or electronics hooked up to an outlet can overload. Bursting water pipes flooding homes can cause significant damage to the structure and foundation. Unplug all appliances to avoid surges from outside lines when you restore power to the house.
  
  

Prepare Yourself

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  Prepare an evacuation plan, and have a disaster kit ready by your door that includes a radio and batteries. Choose a family meeting place so you can reunite if you need to evacuate. Stock up on food, water and batteries, baby items and medicines; have enough gas in your car in case you must leave. Establish points of contact with relatives and friends in case family members are separated. Cell towers may not be operational after a hurricane.
  
  

During the Hurricane

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  Stay inside your home at all times during the hurricane unless you have no other choice. Put as many walls and obstacles between you and the storm as possible. Stay away from windows and doors in case the wind blows out glass or causes doors to open violently. If you notice your ceiling shows signs of breaking apart, get under a sturdy table or into an interior closet. Remain indoors as the hurricane's eye--the calm center of the storm--passes over: The hurricane will regain strength after the eye moves on.
  
  

Hurricane Insurance

• Hurricane insurance may cover fire, vandalism, debris removal, replacement of property and repairs. Depending on your policy, insurance may cover living expenses if you need temporary shelter. A professional insurance agent will tell you the difference between hurricane and flood insurance and what you need to do to protect your property. Hurricane insurance generally excludes flood damage but covers wind and water damage if the damage was caused by rain falling into the home through a wind-damaged area.