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Prepare Your Home for Hurricane Season

09 September 2024

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5 min

Prepare Your Home for Hurricane Season

Hurricane season in Puerto Rico can be a time of great concern for everyone. However, proper preparation can make a big difference in protecting your home and family. That’s why FirstBank is giving you some key tips to protect your home during hurricane season, including the importance of having adequate insurance.

1. Review and reinforce the structure of your home

As part of your preparation, we advise you to first conduct a detailed inspection of your home. Make sure your roof is in good condition and free of leaks. A damaged roof can be an easy entry for water, causing serious damage to the structure of your home. Consider hiring a professional to assess and repair any damage. In addition, reinforce your doors and windows by installing storm shutters or protection panels. This will help minimize any damage caused by strong winds and heavy rainfall. 

2. Keep your yard clean and safe

During a storm or hurricane, loose objects in your yard can become dangerous projectiles. Be sure to trim your trees and plants to reduce the risk of branches falling on your residence or vehicles. Store your patio furniture, tools or toys in a safe place. Clear your drains and gutters to prevent flooding, as debris and leaves can block the flow of water, causing buildup that could damage your home. 

3. Protect your home with adequate insurance

Having a homeowners insurance is essential to protecting your investment. Homeowners insurance helps cover repair and rebuilding costs in the event of hurricane damage. FirstBank Insurance offers homeowners insurance designed for the specific needs of residents in Puerto Rico. A good insurance may not only cover damage to the structure, but also damage to personal property, private property, water damage, damage to third parties, and additional lodging costs if your home becomes uninhabitable. You can get more details and leave us your contact information here and one of our Authorized Insurance Representatives will contact you. 

4. Create an emergency kit

Prepare an emergency kit with essential supplies, such as drinking water, non-perishable food, flashlights, batteries, medicines, and a first aid kit. Make sure you have enough water and food for at least three days. You should also include copies of important documents, such as IDs, insurance policies, and medical documents. Keep them in a secure, easily accessible location. This will come in handy for insurance claims in case your property is damaged or lost. A detailed inventory can speed up the claims process and ensure you receive the proper compensation for your losses. Having an emergency kit can make a big difference in the event of a disaster. 

5. Make a family preparedness plan and conduct drills

If there are seniors in your home, young children or people with disabilities, make sure you factor their special needs into your emergency plan. This may include extra medications, medical equipment, special foods, and items for resting. Also, consider your pets’ needs by making sure you have enough food and a safe place for them to go.
 

Conducting hurricane drills with your family can also be very helpful. Make sure everyone knows what to do and where to go in case of an emergency. Practice turning off the gas, electricity and water if necessary. If you have to evacuate your home, it’s vital to have evacuation routes already planned. Know the safe routes and have a plan to get to a safe place. 
 

Not only should you know the routes, but also keep your vehicle filled with enough fuel to be used at a moment’s notice. It’s also helpful to have a contact person outside your risk zone, so you can communicate with them and inform them about your situation.
 

Communicate this plan to everyone in your family, and make sure everyone knows what to do in case of an emergency. 

6. Apply for a personal loan for additional preparations

Preparing your home for the hurricane season may require an additional investment. If you need financing to make improvements to your home, such as installing storm shutters, reinforcing the roof or buying essential supplies, consider applying for a personal loan. FirstBank offers personal loans with flexible terms that can help you get ready for hurricane season. From structural improvements to the purchase of generators, batteries, solar systems and other emergency equipment, these loans can cover a variety of needs. Start your application process here.
 

Without a doubt, preparedness is the key to protecting your home and family during hurricane season. By following these tips and making sure you have adequate homeowners insurance, you can minimize risks and be better prepared for any eventuality. Don’t wait until the last minute. Take action today and make sure you’re ready to face hurricane season with confidence!

For more information on homeowners insurance and personal loans, visit FirstBank. Prepare and protect what you value most!


 

Prepare and protect what you value most!

The insurance products offered are not a bank deposit, are not insured by the FDIC or by any other federal government agency, nor are they guaranteed by FirstBank or any of their subsidiaries and may decrease in value. Obtaining insurance is optional and could be canceled at any time. Subject to the terms, limitations and conditions of the policy.


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The contents in this section are provided for informational and educational purposes only and do not apply to all types of situations. The contents should not be construed as any type of advice or suggestion to take (or refrain from taking) any particular action, as it does not include or take into account all factors that may be relevant to your individual needs.