What to Do After a Hurricane

By the Mercury Team

Whether you’ve lived near the Gulf and already know how to prepare for a hurricane, or you just moved to the East Coast and don’t yet know what to expect, these storms are part of living near a large body of water. Whether it’s a minor tropical storm or a Category 3 or 4, knowing what to do after a hurricane is essential to staying safe, protecting your property, and starting the recovery process. Our comprehensive guide walks you through each critical step, from returning home safely to figuring out how do insurance claims work and starting the cleanup process.

Stay Informed and Follow Official Guidance

Knowing what to do after a hurricane has passed begins with staying informed. Even after the storm has passed, dangers can linger. Continue to monitor local news channels, your NOAA Weather Radio, or emergency alert systems for updates on road conditions, power outages, and safety instructions. Even though you may be eager to assess damage or begin repairs, your safety and that of your loved ones is more important. In the event of an evacuation, wait until local authorities say it’s safe to return home.

Prioritize Safety Upon Returning Home

Once you do make it home, you’ll want to keep the following in mind:

Avoid Hazards

Be on the lookout for downed power lines, broken glass, and debris. Avoid standing water that could be electrically charged or contaminated.

Check for Gas Leaks

Evacuate immediately if you smell gas or suspect a leak. Do not light matches, turn on appliances, or use your phone near the area. Call your gas company once you’re safely away from the suspected leak.

Prevent Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Many people rely on generators during power outages, but improper use can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning. In fact, between 2011 and 2021, 770 fatalities occurred from generator malfunctions. While it’s nice to be able to power lights, fans, or fridges, always use generators outside at least 20 feet from doors and windows. Never run a generator inside your home, basement, or garage.

Document and Report Any Damage

If you need to know how to file an insurance claim after a hurricane, start by inspecting your home and vehicle for visible damage before you clean up. Take photos and videos of all affected areas to document the extent of the damage.

Also, be sure to save all receipts for emergency repairs, lodging, or food if you’ve had to evacuate. These can often be reimbursed by your insurance provider. Let your family and friends know you’re safe, and check on neighbors who may need assistance, especially the elderly or disabled.

Contact Your Insurance Company

Once you’ve assessed damages, contact your homeowners insurance or car insurance provider as soon as possible.

Mercury customers can report their loss or damage online anytime through Mercury’s automated digital experience by submitting a claim at Mercury Insurance Claims or by calling the claims hotline at (800) 503-3724. Here’s how to start the claims process:

• Contact Mercury immediately about your loss.
• Be ready to provide your policy number.
• Don’t move your vehicle or any debris that may be related to your claim.
• Prepare a detailed inventory of any damage to your vehicle.
• Provide photos or videos to your claims representative.
• Keep records and receipts for additional expenses that might have been incurred and give copies to your claims representative.

If you’re looking for cheap home insurance or car insurance to prepare for future disasters, now is a good time to evaluate your options. Ensuring you’re adequately covered before a storm hits can make a world of difference during recovery. For instance, homeowners insurance doesn’t usually cover weather-related flooding, but flood insurance is available through the National Flood Insurance Program. If you live in a high-risk area, consider purchasing a policy.

Check If Your Vehicle Was Flooded

Floodwaters can cause serious and sometimes irreversible damage to vehicles. If you suspect your car has been flooded:

• Avoid starting your car, as this will cause more damage if there’s water in the engine.
• Check for water lines or sediment inside the vehicle.
• Start drying out your car as soon as possible using a wet or dry vacuum and dry towels.
• Open all doors and windows to allow ventilation.
• Check the oil and transmission fluid dipsticks for signs of water contamination.
• Contact your insurer before making any changes.

Avoid Buying a Flood-Damaged Car

If you’re in the market for a replacement vehicle, be cautious. Flood-damaged cars often enter the resale market after hurricanes. Avoiding a bad purchase is one of the smartest hurricane recovery tips, especially when dealing with the financial stress of a natural disaster. Here’s how to protect yourself:

• Watch out for a musty, moldy aroma in the interior. Also, look for strong air fresheners since sellers may use these to help cover up the smell.
• Look for rust on screws in the console or other areas where water usually wouldn’t reach unless the car has been flooded.
• Check for rusting inside the vehicle and under the interior carpeting.
• Use the car’s Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to run a history report through the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB).
• Go for a test drive and listen for abnormal noises, such as a grinding noise from the brakes or a squeak over bumps.
• Get a pre-purchase inspection from a mechanic or dealership to ensure the vehicle is in working condition.

Clean Up Safely and Watch for Hazards

Hurricane cleanup safety is critical. Floodwaters can contain hazardous chemicals, sewage, and sharp debris. When cleaning up:

• Wear protective clothing, including gloves, boots, and long sleeves.
• Disinfect all surfaces that came into contact with floodwater.
• Watch for displaced animals or insects, including snakes, rats, and mosquitoes. Use insect repellent to avoid bites and possible disease transmission.

Understand Water Safety

Hurricane damage can compromise your home’s water supply, leading to contamination with bacteria or other harmful substances. If you’re unsure whether it’s safe to drink, boil it for at least one minute or use bottled water. Be sure to check with your local municipality for any potential parish or county boil orders.

Seek Relief and Assistance

The federal government, state programs, and local nonprofits can provide relief. If you’re in a declared disaster area, you may be eligible for FEMA disaster aid. This assistance may include grants for temporary housing, home repairs, or other needs. Other local organizations and religious groups are often on the ground to provide food, clothing, and cleaning supplies.

Take Care of Your Health

Disaster recovery can be physically and emotionally exhausting. One of the most often overlooked but important hurricane recovery tips is to pace yourself. Stay hydrated, take regular breaks during cleanup, and don’t try to do everything at once.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed, talk to a mental health professional. Many communities offer free crisis counseling after natural disasters.

Conclusion

These hurricane safety tips can help your family and property stay as safe as possible when disaster strikes. It’s also important to get the right insurance before the hurricane to help keep your home and vehicle protected during a hurricane. If you’re looking for cheap car insurance or a more comprehensive homeowners insurance policy, Mercury offers reliable coverage at an affordable rate.

Contact us today for a fast, free quote!