As Hurricane Milton approaches Florida's west coast, the Reinsurance Association of America (RAA) is advising brokers to guide their clients on key preparation steps to minimize damage and expedite recovery.
Clients should prioritize safety by following local authorities' evacuation orders. It's important to identify evacuation routes and nearby shelter locations before the storm makes landfall. Brokers should remind clients to include their pets in these plans, ensuring that they know which shelters accept animals.
Emergency supplies should be updated, including essentials such as keys, identification, bottled water, batteries, non-perishable food, medications, and cash, as credit cards may not work after the storm. In addition, vehicles should be fully fueled to avoid potential gas shortages in the aftermath.
Clients are encouraged to secure their homes by covering windows with shutters or plywood and moving unsecured items, like patio furniture, indoors. The association also noted that it is also critical for clients to document their property by gathering insurance policies, taking photos of belongings, and storing important documents in waterproof containers. Vehicles should be moved to higher ground or used as evacuation transportation to avoid flood damage.
Emergency bags should be placed near the exit to ensure quick access during evacuation. After the storm, clients should be advised to seek help from local aid workers, not just for essential supplies but also for emotional and medical support.
Once the storm has passed, clients will need guidance on safely inspecting property for damage and determining when to file insurance claims. Further information on post-storm procedures will be made available by the RAA.
Currently classified as a hurricane in the western Gulf, Milton is forecasted to make landfall between Wednesday afternoon and early Thursday, with the strongest consensus predicting a direct hit on Tampa Bay.
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