The extreme damage incurred by the Galveston area is only now being comprehended over two months after Hurricane Ike. Recovery efforts are underway but the immediate steps to be undertaken in the event of damage to your home are crucial and need to be handled with care. If you live in the Gulf Coast area and have to deal with a damaging tropical storm or hurricane, whether you are in Corpus Christi or Lafayette, there are a series of things you must do in the aftermath. Here are some hurricane recovery tips:
In the event of a hurricane or extreme damage to your home, do not risk electrocution. Check electronic equipment for water damage and watch for damaged power lines. Open all of your home’s doors and windows to let air in and ventilate the area. Use bottled water and throw away any food and condiments that may have gone bad in the refrigerator if the power went out for an extended period of time.
When it comes to damage to your home and property, only make temporary fixes that will later be fixed using your insurance settlement. Doing so will allow the insurance company’s inspector to see the full extent of the damage and help you with your overall claim. After a storm, contact your insurance agent as soon as possible, photograph damage and keep all receipts and detailed records of your costs. FEMA assistance can be received by calling 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) or by going to www.FEMA.gov.