Hurricanes: Facts and Tips
According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency* (FEMA), “a
hurricane is a tropical storm with winds that have reached a constant
speed of 74 miles per hour or more.” Hurricanes can cause extensive
property damage and loss of life. At Germania, we strive to ensure that
our policyholders are educated in case of a catastrophe. Below you will
find a few facts and tips that will help your family be more aware and
prepared. You can download a hurricane tracking chart by selecting the
link below.
Governor's Division of Emergency Management - Hurricane Preparedness - click here for full details.
If a hurricane warning is issued...
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Protect windows with plywood or
storm shutters. |
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Turn your refrigerator to its coldest setting
and keep closed. |
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Put vehicles in a garage or other shelter.
Make sure that your boats, trailers and farm equipment are secure.
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Move lawn furniture and lawn equipment indoors
or under cover. |
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Keep emergency phone numbers handy including
the phone number to your Germania agent. |
After the Storm
Check your property for damage. Contact your Germania agent to promptly
report damage. Follow immediately with a written claim to protect your rights
under Texas´ prompt-payment law. Make reasonable and
necessary repairs to protect your home and property from further damage.
Cover broken windows and holes to keep rain out. Do not make permanent
repairs before a claims adjuster inspects the damage. Keep a record of
your repair expenses and save all receipts. Photograph the damage. Try
to be present when the adjuster inspects your damage.
What's the difference...
A “Hurricane Watch” means a hurricane has become a threat to
coastal areas. Residents and businesses in those areas should monitor the
situation and be prepared to take precautionary action promptly if a hurricane
warning is issued. A “Hurricane Warning” indicates
that hurricane force winds, dangerously high water, and rough seas are
expected in a specific coastal area within 24 hours and precautionary
actions should begin immediately.
Did you know...
- Hurricane season lasts from June 1 through November 30.
- August and September are the peak months of the hurricane season.
- Hurricanes can last more than two weeks over open waters.
- Most hurricane-spawned tornadoes occur within 150 miles of the coastline.
- The Gulf of Mexico hurricanes produce more tornadoes than Atlantic
storms.
- A hurricane’s eye can be 20 to 30 miles in diameter.
Hurricane Tracking
Chart
Saffir-Simpson Scale
2009 Season Prediction
View Other Safety Tips
*Sources: Federal Emergency Management
Agency & National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
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