6 Steps to Take After a Hurricane Has Passed

Since 2000, Florida has been affected by 79 tropical or subtropical cyclones, including 59 major hurricanes (Category 3 or greater).¹  While Florida leads the nation in direct hurricane hits, the rest of the Southeast is no stranger to the devastation these storms can cause. No matter which state you call home, it’s important to have a plan should you ever find yourself impacted by a hurricane. Once a hurricane has passed, it's essential to take immediate action to ensure your safety and begin the recovery process. Here are six critical steps to follow:

1. Emergency Management

In the immediate aftermath of a hurricane, ensuring your safety and protecting your property should be top priorities. Follow these essential steps:

Ensure Personal Safety and Assess Injuries 

Your safety and well-being is the most important matter on this entire list. Begin by checking yourself and others for any injuries. Seek medical attention if necessary and be cautious of hazards like downed power lines, flooding, and debris.

Contact Local Authorities and Report Damages 

Notify local authorities such as the police or fire department about any damages or hazardous situations. This helps them coordinate response efforts and provide necessary assistance to those affected.

Secure Your Property to Prevent Further Damage 

Take immediate action to secure your property. Cover broken windows or openings to protect against rain and wind. Remove debris or fallen trees that pose a threat to your property or others.

By following these steps, you can prioritize personal safety and mitigate further damage to your property. Stay informed through official channels and adhere to additional instructions from local authorities.

2. Recovery and Cleanup

Once the immediate danger has passed, it's crucial to begin the recovery and cleanup process. Cleaning up and drying out your home quickly can help reduce injury or illness. Here are three essential steps to help you get started:

Document Damages for Insurance Claims

Carefully assess and document all the damages caused by the hurricane. Take photographs and make a detailed inventory of the affected areas, including your home, property, and belongings. This documentation will be invaluable when filing insurance claims.

Remove Standing Water to Prevent Mold Growth 

Hurricanes often leave behind significant amounts of standing water, which can lead to mold growth and further damage. Use pumps, buckets, or wet-dry vacuums to remove water. Ensure proper ventilation and use dehumidifiers to dry out affected areas promptly to prevent health hazards and additional property damage.

Dispose of Damaged Items Properly

After a hurricane, you'll likely have damaged items that are beyond repair. Dispose of these items safely and in accordance with local regulations. Separate them from regular household waste and consider recycling options for salvageable materials. Proper disposal helps with the cleanup process and promotes environmental sustainability.

Remember, the recovery and cleanup process can be overwhelming. Taking these essential steps will help you get back on track after a hurricane. If you need financial assistance during this challenging time, SouthState is here to support you. Contact us for guidance on insurance claims, loans, or any other financial needs.

3. Restoring Essential Services

After a hurricane, restoring essential services is a critical step in returning to normalcy. Here are three important steps to follow:

Contact Utility Companies to Restore Power and Other Services

Power outages are common in the aftermath of a hurricane. Report the outage to your local utility company and inquire about the estimated time for restoration. They will provide updates and necessary instructions. Prioritize the restoration of power to ensure a safe and comfortable environment.

Check for Potential Gas Leaks and Report Them Immediately

Hurricanes can damage gas lines, leading to potential leaks. If you smell gas or suspect a gas leak, evacuate the premises immediately and call your gas company's emergency hotline. Do not use electrical devices, open flames, or even switch on lights, as they can ignite the gas. Prompt action can prevent accidents and ensure safety.

Make Temporary Repairs to Prevent Further Property Damage

Assess the damage to your property and take immediate action to prevent further deterioration. Cover broken windows or damaged roofs with tarps or boards to keep out rainwater and prevent additional damage. Clear debris and fallen trees to ensure safe access to your property. These temporary measures can protect your home and belongings while you wait for professional assistance.

After a hurricane, safety should be your top priority. Taking these steps promptly will help restore essential services and minimize further damage.

4. Financial Assistance and Support

The financial impact of a hurricane can be daunting. Here are steps you can take to secure financial assistance and support:

Contact Your Insurance Provider

Notify your insurance provider about the damages as soon as possible. Provide them with the documentation you gathered during the initial assessment. Understand your coverage and inquire about the claims process and any assistance they can provide for temporary housing or repairs.

Explore Government Assistance Programs

Federal and state governments often provide disaster relief programs for those affected by hurricanes. Research and apply for any relevant programs that can offer financial aid for housing, repairs, or other essential needs.

Seek Financial Advice and Support from Your Bank

SouthState offers support and guidance for customers affected by hurricanes. If you need help managing your finances during this difficult time, our team is here to assist you. 

Recovering from a hurricane involves not only physical repairs but also financial stability. Taking these steps will help you navigate the financial challenges and ensure a smoother recovery process.
 

5. Community Support and Resources

Leveraging community resources can significantly aid in the recovery process after a hurricane. Here are steps to connect with and utilize community support:

Reach Out to Local Community Organizations

Many local organizations and non-profits offer assistance during disaster recovery. These can include food banks, shelters, and volunteer groups. Reaching out to these organizations can provide immediate support and resources during the recovery phase.

Participate in Community Cleanup Efforts

Community cleanup initiatives are often organized to help clear debris and restore public spaces. Participating in these efforts not only helps expedite the cleanup process but also fosters a sense of community and mutual support.

Stay Connected with Neighbors

Communicate with your neighbors and support each other during the recovery process. Sharing resources, information, and assistance can make a significant difference in overcoming the challenges posed by a hurricane.

“After a hurricane, community becomes our greatest asset. From local food banks to neighbors extending a helping hand, it becomes a shared effort to not only rebuild homes, but restore hope and strength for everyone,” said Renee Douglas, Senior Vice President, Director of Risk & Business Controls at SouthState.

Community support is invaluable during times of crisis. By staying connected and utilizing available resources, you can enhance your recovery efforts and contribute to the resilience of your community.

6. Long-Term Preparedness

While the immediate aftermath of a hurricane is critical, long-term preparedness is equally important to mitigate future risks. Here are steps to strengthen your preparedness for future hurricanes:

Evaluate and Improve Your Emergency Plan

Review your current emergency plan and identify areas for improvement. Ensure that it includes evacuation routes, emergency contacts, and a list of essential items. Conduct regular drills with your family to ensure everyone knows the plan.

Strengthen Your Property

Invest in improvements that can protect your property from future hurricanes. This can include installing storm shutters, reinforcing roofs, and securing outdoor items. Consult with professionals to identify the best measures for your specific property.

Stay Informed and Educated

Stay updated on hurricane preparedness guidelines and best practices. Attend community workshops and seminars and subscribe to alerts from local authorities. Knowledge and preparedness can significantly reduce the impact of future hurricanes.

By taking these long-term preparedness steps, you can enhance your resilience against future hurricanes and ensure a safer environment for you and your family.

If you need assistance or have any questions, SouthState is here to help. Contact us for support and guidance as you navigate the recovery process and prepare for the future.

Read more tips on how to prepare for future hurricanes or other natural disasters.


About the Author, Renee Douglas: Renee Douglas has 25 plus years in the financial institutions industry including auditing privately held and publicly traded companies. As Director of Mortgage Risk and Business Controls in conjunction with the first line of defense, she oversees the operational risks associated with residential lending including audits, quality control, and compliance.

 

¹Preparation and Recovery from Hurricanes - Technical Bulletin #02 (fdacs.gov)