When A Hurricane Threatens: Here’s How To Prepare For Whatever Comes Your Way

A hurricane’s brutal destruction or flooding is not something easily forgotten, and there is no question that North Carolina has seen its fair share of major hurricanes.

From Floyd to Fran in the late 90s, Irene in 2011, Matthew in 2016 and Irma in 2017. As Hurricane Florence continues to grow and predicted to hit the North and South Carolina coast residents are paying close attention. We rank among the top states for direct hurricane strikes and Irma’s storm track has North Carolinians heading to stores for supplies in preparation for what may come our way.  

Your insurance during emergencies

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina takes steps to ensure your health care coverage needs are continuous and offers flexibility in the event of a storm. When the N.C. Governor or President of the United States declares a major disaster; Blue Cross may waive requirements for customers affected by the storm, as long as a state of emergency is in place. For example, this might include:

• Ability to refill prescriptions early or replace lost or destroyed prescriptions
• Access to health care services at any available facility regardless of network status and without prior approval

The hurricane kit

North Carolina doesn’t get major hurricane action every year, but why take chances with preparation? Take it from the thousands of people affected by hurricanes every season – it’s always better to be prepared. Being prepared also leads to the ability to assist others. It’s easy to procrastinate. But make this a priority – perhaps make it a fun weekend project with the kids to get your kit together.

 

 

In a large plastic bin, consider storing:

• Nonperishable food (enough for each person, for at least three days – don’t forget a can opener if your kit includes canned goods)
• Water (one gallon per person, for at least three days)
• Flashlights and/or lanterns, and extra batteries for these
• Portable battery charger for devices (like your smartphones and tablets)
• First Aid Kit (don’t forget any prescription medications)
• Tarp
• Waterproof Tape
• Multi-tool that includes a wrench to turn off utilities
• Cash
• Copies of critical information (insurance cards, identification, bank account info, etc.)
• Any special supplies for your kids (diapers, games, etc.) and your pets
• Medications, insurance cards, prescriptions

Things to consider (before the storm hits)

• Topping off your vehicle’s gas tanks
• Decide where to go if you need to evacuate, and make sure your family knows the plan
• What to do with your pets
• Refill prescriptions

It may take an hour or two to get your kit together, but you’ll be so glad you did.

Additional Resources

Actions to take during a hurricane watch or warning

Follow Local News Coverage 

BCBSNC emergency disaster preparedness

Atlantic Ocean – named storms

Hurricane strikes by date

Feature photo credit: Hurricane Irma path update: Map from the NOAA National Hurricane Center

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