National Hurricane Preparedness Week—which is scheduled for May 9-15 this year—encourages individuals to evaluate their personal hurricane risks and implement measures to keep themselves and their homes protected during a hurricane.

Hurricanes have become an increasingly prevalent concern throughout many Southern states and along much of the East Coast. In fact, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration reported a record-breaking 30 named storms during the 2020 hurricane season—resulting in 430 deaths and totaling $47 billion in overall costs.

As the 2021 hurricane season approaches, prepare yourself and your household with these tips.

BEFORE A HURRICANE

• Review your community’s hurricane risk level. The location of your home can determine potential wind and flood hazards.
• Register for email updates from the National Weather Service and any available local alert systems to be aware of hurricane warnings or evacuation orders in your area.
• Develop a hurricane response plan and practice it regularly with members of your household.
• Prepare a hurricane kit with nonperishable food, water, medicine, emergency power sources, a first-aid kit and important documents.
• Limit your home’s hurricane exposures by keeping drains and gutters clean, installing storm shutters on windows and doors, and storing vehicles in a safe location.
• Review your homeowners policy with your insurance professionals to ensure you will be covered in the event of a hurricane.

AFTER A HURRICANE

• If you evacuated your home, don’t return until local officials confirm it is safe to do so.
• When returning home, wear protective clothing and stay away from pools of floodwater, wet or damaged electrical equipment and downed power lines.
• Photograph all property damage, and save receipts for any recovery expenses stemming from the hurricane to help file an insurance claim.