Allstate Offers Tips for Surviving Storm

With Hurricane Irene quickly approaching, Allstate New Jersey Insurance Company reminds New Jerseyans to take some quick and simple steps to prepare. These easy steps can go a long way in minimizing property damage and protecting families. 

Allstate New Jersey encourages everyone to develop a plan by understanding their insurance coverage and developing an evacuation strategy and suggests you consider some storm preparation tips, including:

Things You Can Do Well in Advance of a Storm
♦ Conduct a home inventory of your possessions. It is helpful to keep track of model numbers and stores where items were purchased. Store your inventory, including photos and videos, in a safe place away from your home.
♦ Prepare an emergency supply kit that includes things such as a three-day supply of water and ready-to-eat, non-perishable food for every family member and pet; a battery-powered flashlight and radio with extra batteries; a first-aid kit and manual.
♦ Assess your property to ensure landscaping and trees do not become wind hazards and remove any diseased or damaged limbs from trees. This will help keep them from blowing around during a storm.
♦ Pre-select a garage or carport to park your car in or an area of higher ground to move your car to in case of flooding.
♦ Ensure you have hurricane shutters or  ¾-inch outdoor plywood boards for each window of your home. Install anchors and pre-drill holes for the plywood so you can put it up quickly in the event of a storm.
♦ Install head and foot bolts on doors for extra protection.

Things You Can Do Right Before a Storm
♦ Secure buildings by closing and boarding up windows. Remove outside antennas.
♦ Bring all lawn furniture, outdoor decorations, trash cans, hanging plants and anything else that could be picked up by the wind inside. Anchor objects that cannot be brought inside.
♦ Move your car to a garage, a carport or an area of higher ground in the case of flooding.
♦ If you must leave your car outdoors, park as close to a building as possible.  Move your car away from trees or poles that may topple onto it.
♦ Make sure you fill your car's gas tank.
♦ Get emergency cash.
♦ Turn your refrigerator to its coldest setting.

For more information, go to: http://www.allstate.com