Preparing ahead of time makes a significant difference when a hurricane threatens your area. Once you have completed your general storm preparations, it is essential to understand what actions to take when the National Weather Service issues a hurricane watch or hurricane warning for your location. The following hurricane tips explain what to do before, during, and after a storm so you can protect your family, property, and peace of mind.

First, it is important to understand the difference between a hurricane watch and a hurricane warning. Knowing this distinction helps you respond quickly and confidently. A hurricane watch means hurricane conditions are possible within the next 48 hours. At this stage, preparation becomes critical.

Hurricane Watch: Conditions Possible Within 48 Hours

To begin, review your evacuation routes and identify multiple options in case roadways become congested. At the same time, listen closely to guidance from local officials by monitoring trusted local radio, television, or emergency alert systems. These hurricane tips help you stay informed as conditions change.

Next, review your disaster supply kit and restock any missing items. Additionally, tailor your supplies to meet the needs of your household, including children, elderly family members, individuals with disabilities, and pets. For example, include medications, medical equipment, comfort items, and extra food or water. Taking these steps early allows you to act calmly rather than rush later.

Hurricane Warning: Conditions Expected Within 36 Hours

When officials issue a hurricane warning, hurricane conditions are expected within 36 hours, and immediate action becomes necessary. First and foremost, follow evacuation orders issued by local authorities. These orders are based on safety and risk assessments, so taking them seriously is one of the most important hurricane tips you can follow.

Meanwhile, check in with family and friends using text messages or social media. Communication plays a key role during emergencies, and letting others know your plans helps everyone stay connected and informed. In addition, continue following your hurricane preparedness timeline based on when the storm is expected to arrive and how it may impact your area.

Final Hurricane Tips for Staying Prepared

Ultimately, preparation, communication, and awareness work together to keep you safe. By understanding alerts, following official guidance, and using proven hurricane tips, you can reduce stress and make better decisions before, during, and after a storm.

Always stay up to date with The National Weather Service.

Home Safe Home

Spring cleaning season is here. As you create your plan for cleaning indoors and outdoors, place safety at the top of your checklist. Take time to poison-proof key areas of your home. After all, “Home Safe Home” truly means “Home Sweet Home.”

Keep all cleaning products out of reach of children and pets. Oven cleaners and drain openers pose the highest risk. Many cleaners come in bright colors or sweet scents, which can cause children to mistake them for drinks. Secure over-the-counter and prescription medications as well. Household chemicals and medications can cause serious harm. Fortunately, you can prevent most poisonings with proper storage.

Utility Room

Laundry detergent packets offer convenience, but they also create serious risks. Always store them out of reach of children. Last year, exposure to these packets poisoned more than 6,000 children. The detergent inside is highly concentrated and dangerous.

Symptoms can include severe vomiting, breathing trouble, and loss of consciousness. Some children require ventilator support. Although the packets resemble candy, they can cause life-threatening injuries. In case of an emergency, save the Poison Control Center number—800-222-1222—in your phone contacts.

Garage and Garden

Store hazardous products such as gasoline, paint, antifreeze, pesticides, and bug spray securely. Keep these items away from children and pets at all times. Store garden tools and equipment safely to reduce the risk of injury.

Consider installing storage cabinets or shelving in your garage or garden shed. Organization helps prevent accidents before they happen. Regularly review these spaces and remove hazards that may go unnoticed. Taking a few extra steps can turn a dangerous area into a safer one.

March 20, 2020 | Tower Hill Insurance

Stay Alert for COVID-19 Scams

On March 6, 2020, the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) issued an alert urging individuals and organizations to remain especially alert for scams related to the coronavirus (COVID-19). During times of uncertainty, cybercriminals often take advantage of fear, confusion, and the desire for timely information. As a result, cyber actors may send emails containing malicious attachments or links that direct users to fraudulent websites. These scams often aim to steal sensitive personal or financial information or persuade victims to donate to fake charities or causes.

How Scammers Target Victims

Fraudulent emails and messages often appear legitimate. They may include official-looking logos, urgent language, or familiar names to gain trust. Now is the time to exercise heightened caution when handling any email, text message, social media post, or phone call related to COVID-19. Messages with pandemic-related subject lines, unexpected attachments, or unfamiliar hyperlinks should be treated with suspicion. Similarly, social media pleas, unsolicited texts, and phone calls requesting personal information or donations should raise red flags.

Cybersecurity Precautions to Follow

CISA recommends taking the following precautions to protect yourself and your family:

1. Be Cautious with Emails and Links

Avoid clicking on links or opening attachments in unsolicited emails, even if the message appears urgent or claims to come from a trusted source. Cybercriminals often rely on social engineering tactics to pressure recipients into acting quickly without verifying the sender.

2. Rely on Trusted Information Sources

Use government websites and recognized public health organizations for accurate, up-to-date information about COVID-19. These sources provide fact-based guidance without requesting personal or financial information.

3. Protect Personal and Financial Information

Never share sensitive details such as passwords, Social Security numbers, or banking information in response to unsolicited requests. Legitimate organizations will not ask for this information through email or text messages.

4. Verify Charities Before Donating

Fraudulent charities often emerge during crises, using emotional appeals to solicit donations under false pretenses. Always verify a charity’s authenticity before giving. The Federal Trade Commission provides resources to help consumers identify and avoid charity scams.

5. Review CISA Insights on Risk Management

CISA offers guidance on risk management during COVID-19 to help individuals and organizations recognize evolving threats and take appropriate precautions.

Stay Vigilant

Following these steps is an important way to protect your personal information and reduce your risk of falling victim to COVID-19-related scams. Staying informed and cautious helps ensure you and your loved ones remain safe during this stressful time.

Adapted from www.ncua.gov/