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Create an inventory well before a storm strikes

• Use a video or still camera to create a visual record of your belongings
   that might be damaged or lost during a catastrophe.  Update this visual
   record periodically, especially after making improvements to your home
   or business or after making a major purchase or receiving a gift of
   significant value.
• Create a written list of your inventory to accompany your visual reference.  Retain  receipts for valuable items, if possible, and note makes, models, serial numbers,  dates of purchase and other relevant information in your list.
• Store visual and written records, or copies of them, away from your home or  business in a secure location, such as a safe deposit box.

Secure your property in advance of an oncoming storm

• Store outdoor furniture or signage inside your home or business.  In
   high winds, these items can become flying missiles.
• Close storm shutters over windows.  If you do not have storm shutters,
   you may want to install plywood or place masking tape over windows to
   minimize flying glass.
• Secure sheds and carports.  Sheds, carports, barns and other unstable structures may blow down in strong winds.
• Park your vehicles in a garage, if possible, rather than a carport.  If no garage is  available, park it way from trees whose falling branches may cause damage.
• Keep tree branches away from your home or business.  Make trees more
   wind resistant by removing diseased or damaged limbs.
• Be sure you have an emergency supply of food and water, as well as a first aid kit,  fully charged fire extinguisher, flashlights with fresh batteries, a portable radio with  fresh batteries, necessary items for infants or disabled family members, warm clothing, a cellular phone, if available, and emergency phone numbers.
• Fill your car with gas.
• Heed evacuation notices from public authorities, and make certain you know the  evacuation route.  If evacuation is not possible or advised, go to an established  shelter or sheltered location.
• Secure important documents, such as your home inventory and insurance
   policies, in a safe, accessible place.  Keep personal identification with you as it will  be needed to receive a claim check for insurance coverage.
• If you are evacuated, unplug all appliances before leaving your residence and shut  off electricity, gas and water to your home or business to help mitigate damages.
• Lock windows and doors.

Exercise caution when returning to your home or business

• Follow any safety directives issued by public authorities.
• Cover all damaged openings with heavy plastic until your insurance claim adjuster arrives.
• Do not touch any downed or loose wires.
• Do not attempt to remove branches or trees that have fallen on your home or business.
• If you smell gas, leave the premises immediately; do not attempt to find or fix the problem.
• Do not cook on a gas or charcoal grill inside your home.