As far as hurricane preparedness goes, most people are well aware of the effect that hurricanes can have on windows and trees. However, those of you who are in the process of obtaining a mortgage may be affected in other, more surprising ways:
- Certain businesses such as title companies may close for the duration of the hurricane to ensure safety of employees and property
- For the mortgage industry, this can lead to delayed closing times
- A delayed closing generally leads to an extension of contract as well as extended rate locks
- A second appraisal may be needed in order to verify that the property is still intact and in good condition
If any of these things happen, Morgan Financial will walk you through the changed process and have your loan closed as quickly and as smoothly as possible.
Hurricane season reaches its peak between mid-August and mid-October, and Hurricane Irma reinforces that fact as it rises from the Atlantic. While staying on top of your mortgage pursuits is important, safety and well-being during a dangerous hurricane is paramount and should be top priority. Here are the things you need to be sure to take care of as soon as possible and well before the hurricane makes landfall.
Stockpile Survival Supplies
You will need enough supplies for each person for 3 to 7 days.
Water
Each person will need one gallon of water per day, and it’s a good idea to have even more water on hand for general sanitation purposes such as bathing and flushing toilets. Purchase bottled water for drinking, but fill plenty of other containers with tap water well before the storm hits.
Non-Perishable Food
Canned food is best, and you should ideally have food that doesn’t require heating or cooking. Furthermore, make sure you have a manual can opener on hand.
Medical Supplies
If someone has a medical condition that requires special attention, be sure to fill prescriptions and have all necessary supplies for their safety and well-being readily available. Furthermore, gather other over-the-counter medications and make sure that your first aid kit is full of everything you need and more.
Prepare Your Hurricane Kit
Your hurricane and emergency kit should include:
- Matches and candles
- Flashlights
- Battery-powered radio
- First-aid kit
- Fire extinguisher
- Scissors
- Duct tape
- Clean clothes
- Sleeping bags and extra blankets
- Extra gasoline
Prepare Your Home
You will need to:
- Board up your windows
- Remove all outdoor items that could be picked up by the wind
- Get some extra cash
- Trim dead branches from trees
- Move furniture away from your windows
- Store important documents in waterproof containers
For more information and helpful tips, check out the Red Cross Hurricane Safety Checklist. You can never be too prepared, so hunker down and stay safe out there!
