Hurricane Irene: Allstate Tips to Get Ready

With Hurricane Irene on its way, Allstate New Jersey Insurance Company has tips to help people keep their homes safe and to minimize property damage during the storm.

Spokesperson Danny Jovic said people must look at their insurance coverage and determine what he calls an evacuation strategy.

• Conduct a home inventory of your possessions, including model numbers and stores where items were purchased. If there is time, store valuables, including photos and videos, in a safe place away from your home (an example would be a bank safety deposit box).
• Prepare an emergency supply kit with, at minimum, a three-day supply of water and ready-to-eat, non-perishable food for every family member and pet; a battery-powered flashlight and radio with extra batteries; a first-aid kit and manual.
• Assess your property to ensure landscaping and trees do not become wind hazards. Remove any diseased or damaged limbs from trees. 
• Fill up your vehicle's gas tank.
• Pre-select a garage or carport to park your car in or an area of higher ground to move your car to in case of flooding. If you must leave your car outdoors, park as close to a building as possible, but as far away from trees or poles that could topple onto it.
• Ensure you have hurricane shutters or 3/4-inch outdoor plywood boards for each window of your home.
• Install anchors and pre-drill holes for the plywood so you can board up windows quickly in the event of a storm.
• Install head and foot bolts on doors for extra protection.
• Remove outside antennas.
• Bring all lawn furniture, outdoor decorations, trash cans, hanging plants and anything else that could be picked up by the wind inside. Anchor objects that cannot be brought inside.
• Make sure to get emergency cash to have on hand.
• Turn your refrigerator to its coldest setting.