Preparing your home for an emergency

Florida is a great place to call home. Warm weather attracts many people to the state. The same warm weather and great location also provide a place that is prone to weather emergencies. Making sure your home is prepared makes it less stressful when an emergency arises. Having the correct amount of home insurance is also a stress reliever. At Runnels Insurance in Brandon, FL, we are locally owned and operated and have been providing friendly and efficient service since 1991. 

Many emergencies that threaten Florida are weather-related.  Hurricanes are a regular yearly occurrence. If you live in an area that is likely to feel the effects of one of these storms, you need to be prepared to deal with it. Hurricane shutters can provide the level of protection that homes in Florida need or having hurricane-proof windows is never a bad idea. 

High winds often cause power outages. When the power is out, that can affect your water and sewer lines. It is imperative that you have access to clean water both for drinking and other necessities. Having at least a week’s supply of freshwater is good planning. If you need water for your toilet to flush, filling your bathtub with water when a storm is expected can be a lifesaver. 

Investing in a generator can mean the difference between sweltering in the summer heat and having a working ac unit. It can also help to preserve the food in your fridge and freezer. Making sure that you have enough fuel for a week is also important. 

If your area is prone to flooding, your family should have an evacuation plan so that the entire family knows where you will be evacuating to. You also should have your important papers in a weatherproof container, so they will be available to you if you need them. 

In Brandon, FL, Runnels Insurance is your local independent insurance agent.