How to Financially Prepare for the Next Tropical Storm is a feature by Storm Preppers. Storm Preppers is a disaster management, tropical weather and climate change site that prepares readers for tropical storms and hurricanes.
It’s the height of the Atlantic Tropical Season and the Atlantic Ocean is hot and active. Tropical weather systems are forming rapidly and moving swiftly through the Caribbean and into the Americas. There have already been a couple of devastating storms, that have left people picking up the pieces of their homes and their lives.
One of the overarching themes on the Storm Preppers website is the importance of being prepared. There are several articles which implore the importance of stocking up on food and water; preparing homes and properties and making plans. But there is another way that you can prepare for hurricane storm.
Get your finances in order.
To financially prepare for the next tropical storm, there are five important steps that you can take now. Ideally, these should be done before the season starts in June. However, if you take these steps, you can put yourself in an excellent position to deal with any tropical storm expenses that may come in the future.
1. Start an Emergency Fund
Yes. Your emergency fund can be used to keep you afloat in the event of a natural disaster. This fund is extremely popular because of the value it provides when called up. It is important to be disciplined with this account as you fund it. Be committed to adding a specific amount each month and the fund will grow. Remember! It’s for emergencies only.
2. Check Your Insurance
The type of insurance that you have should cover your home from all types of damage. It is important to note that flood insurance is not always included in the main home policy, so you will have to purchase that separately. When reviewing your policy, check your coverage limits, deductible and confirm what will be covered in the event of a disaster.
3. Secure Important Documents
Your important documents should be secured in a water-proof container that’s kept in a safe place. This can be as easy as storing documents in resealable bags and they putting them into an air tight container. Another option is to create digital copies of the documents. Examples of important documents are passports, birth certificates and property deeds.
4. Keep Cash on Hand
In addition to the funds accumulated in your emergency fund, having cash on hand is a smart move. In the aftermath of storms, when electricity and basic utilities, may be non-existent, ATMS and credit card machines will be useless. Cash is king and hard cash will enable you to purchase much needed supplies and food.
5. Make of List of Where to Find Financial Help
After particularly devastating storms, there are several agencies which may step in to offer financial help. This help may come in the form of disaster funding; disaster loans; and financial assistance grants. It should be noted that some of these financial lifelines have eligibility requirements.
To financially prepare for a tropical storm, you must be proactive. When you put your plan in place before the hurricane season starts, you will be prepared for whatever may come your way. If you want to learn how to prepare for tropical storms, visit Storm Preppers to get free advice and guides.