Hurricane Hacks With DC Linton

Hurricane Hacks is a weekly segment that features tips on how to stay safe before, during and after a storm.

A new segment is published every Wednesday. The first episode was published August 7, 2024.

Hurricane Hacks Episode 1: Insurance

Hurricanes can bring a variety of hazards across North Carolina, with flooding from heavy rain being the most common. Don’t wait until after you have a loss to check your insurance — review your homeowners' or renters' policies to ensure you have the right coverage if you're hit with a destructive storm. Below are some tips to help you prepare for this season.

Review your policy to ensure you're adequately covered.
If you need to make appropriate changes do them now. (Many providers take 30 days before changes are effective).
Know your deductible.
Check your homeowner's policy limit and make sure the amount is enough to rebuild your home.
Understand your hurricane/windstorm deductible.
Understand what disasters your insurance policy covers—and those it doesn't.
Determine the value of your possessions with a home inventory.

By following these steps, you can protect your property and ensure a smoother recovery process after a hurricane. Stay informed and prepared. For more information and assistance, please contact Beaufort County Emergency Services. “Your safety is our priority.”

Hurricane Hacks Episode 2: Sheltering

During Hurricane season, it is crucial to be prepared for needing shelter, whether at home or in a designated emergency shelter. Here are some essential tips to help you prepare for this season.

Sheltering at Home

Know Your Evacuation Zone
Prepare an Emergency Kit (water, non-perishable food 5-days, flashlight batteries)
Documents- Gather IDs, insurance papers, chargers for electronics
Plan for Pets

Sheltering in a Public Place

Make this your last resort - contact family and friends first

Stay informed to identify where shelters are located.
Have at least five days of personal supplies (meds, personal hygiene items, electronics chargers etc.)
Adhere to all emergency sheltering rules.
Consider special needs and vulnerable populations-plan for medical necessities for 5 days.

By following these steps, and preparing in advance, you can better ensure your safety and that of your family during hurricane season. Stay informed and prepared. For more information and assistance, please contact Beaufort County Emergency Services. “Your safety is our priority.”

Hurricane Hacks Episode 3: Pets

Preparing for a hurricane is crucial, especially when you have pets to care for in Beaufort County, a region often in the path of these storms. Ensuring your pets' safety and well-being during such events requires careful planning and proactive measures.

Here are a few tips for the Hurricane Season:

Make a pet-specific emergency kit including essentials like food, water, medications, a leash, carrier, waste bags, and toys or blankets. Ensure you have enough supplies to last at least a week.
Identify Pet-Friendly Shelters: Research and locate pet-friendly shelters or hotels in and around Beaufort County.
Update Identification: Ensure your pets have up-to-date ID tags with your contact information. If your pet is microchipped, confirm that your contact details are up-to-date in the microchip registry.
Plan for Evacuation: Have a clear evacuation plan that includes how you will transport your pets. Practice loading them into carriers or vehicles so they are accustomed to the process, reducing stress during an actual evacuation.
Keep Vaccinations Current: Make sure your pets are up-to-date on vaccinations and have their medical records easily accessible. Some shelters require proof of vaccination for entry.
Comfort Your Pets: During a storm, try to calm your pets by staying with them, speaking softly, and providing familiar items like toys or blankets. Your calm demeanor can help ease their anxiety.

By taking these steps to prepare for a hurricane with your pets in mind, you can help ensure their safety and reduce the stress emergencies can bring. Being prepared is not just about survival—it's about keeping your entire family, including your pets, safe and secure. For more information and assistance, please contact Beaufort County Emergency Services.

Hurricane Hacks Episode 4: Emergency Kit Essentials

During Hurricane season, it is crucial to have an emergency supply kit ready to use, whether at home or in a designated emergency shelter. Here are some essential items to have in your kit.

Water – 1 gallon per person, per day, for 7 days
Food – Non-perishable and canned food for 7 days
Hand sanitizer, or sanitizing wipes
Battery powered or hand crank radio with extra batteries
Cell phone with charger
First aid kit
Flashlight with extra batteries
Manual can-opener for food and miscellaneous tools to turn off water
Prescription medications, glasses, and hearing aids
Seasonal clothing, and sturdy shoes
Personal hygiene supplies
Important documents i.e. insurance policies, drivers license, social security card, bank account records
Cash on hand

Hurricane Hacks Episode 5: Generator Safety

If you own a portable generator, you know how useful it can be during a hurricane.

Here are some tips to prepare for the season and use it correctly to stay safe.

Use Outdoors only: operate your generator outside, away from windows, doors, and vents to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
Keep Dry: Place the generator on a dry surface, under a canopy with a well-ventilated area.
Never use in enclosed spaces like garages, even with the doors open
Cool before refueling: Let the generator cool down before refueling to prevent fire hazards from spilled fuel.
Use the right extension cords: Only use heavy-duty, outdoor rated cords, sufficient gauge to handle the generator’s power output.\