Hurricanes can cause overwhelming destruction, leaving homes and communities in disarray. In 2023 alone, the U.S. experienced 28 major weather disasters, totaling nearly $93 billion in damages—a clear reminder of the unpredictability and intensity of severe weather.

As a property owner, the aftermath of such events can be filled with uncertainty and difficult decisions. So, what should you do after a hurricane? This guide offers practical advice to help you safely assess damage, manage debris, and begin restoring your home.

What To Do After a Hurricane: 7 Tips for Safety and Property Restoration

Here are seven practical tips and steps for navigating storm recovery efficiently while safeguarding your home and well-being.

1.Implement Immediate Safety Measures

After the winds have subsided and the rain has stopped, it can be tempting to start surveying the damage immediately. However, it’s best to prioritize your safety before taking any further steps.

Here are some reminders worth heeding to prevent injury or further danger.

• Avoid Standing Water. Standing water can be extremely dangerous as it may conceal downed power lines or sharp debris. Always steer clear of flooded areas until they are assessed and deemed safe.

• Turn Off Gas Pipes. If you smell gas or suspect a leak, immediately turn off your home’s main gas valve to prevent fires or explosions.

• Use Generators Safely. Always operate generators outdoors and keep them at least 20 feet from windows, doors, and vents to avoid the potential hazard of carbon monoxide poisoning.

2. Ensure It’s Safe To Return Home

If you have evacuated, wait until local authorities confirm it’s safe for you to return. Hidden dangers, such as downed power lines or unstable structures, may still be present even after the storm has passed.

When you do return, carefully inspect your property for signs of structural damage, cracks, or flooding. Unstable buildings may collapse without warning, so it’s best to avoid entering them if you have any doubts.

While it’s understandable to want to retrieve your belongings as soon as possible, safety should always come first in these situations.

3. Manage Debris With Caution and Assess Damage

Once it’s safe to begin cleaning up, take the following precautions while handling debris:

• Always use gloves, sturdy boots, and long-sleeve shirts to avoid injuries from sharp objects and hazardous materials.
• Assume all downed power lines are live. Report them immediately to your utility company.
• Be mindful of displaced wildlife like snakes or rodents that may seek shelter in debris.
• Use proper lifting techniques to avoid back injuries. Lift with your legs, not your back.
• Stay away from buildings with visible structural damage, such as weak roofs or walls.
• Debris may include unknown hazards, so if you can’t identify it, don’t touch it.

This is also an excellent time to inspect your home inside and out for visible damage, like structural issues or water intrusion. Document any problems thoroughly with photos and videos to support insurance claims.

Remember that certain types of damage, such as hidden structural weakness or flooding, may not be immediately noticeable. There are helpful resources on assessing hurricane damage online, but a professional can offer expert evaluation.

4. Address Electrical and Gas Hazards

Electrical and gas systems are highly vulnerable to damage during hurricanes, so extra caution is needed. Avoid using electrical devices that have come into contact with water, as they can cause electric shocks or fires. If you suspect a gas leak, immediately turn off the gas valve and contact a professional to inspect it before resuming use.

5. Avoid Contact With Contaminated Floodwater

Floodwater can carry harmful contaminants, such as sewage or chemicals, and pose serious health risks. Because of this, it’s critical that you avoid direct contact with floodwater to minimize your risk of infection or illness.

Until local authorities confirm that tap water is safe, use bottled water for drinking, cooking, and cleaning. Moreover, discard any perishable food items that have been without refrigeration for over two hours to avoid foodborne illnesses.

6. Care for Your Physical and Mental Health

Dealing with the aftermath of a hurricane can be emotionally overwhelming and physically exhausting. As you begin the restoration process, it’s essential to prioritize your health and well-being. Ensuring you have access to safe drinking water and nutritious food can help you maintain your strength through the long recovery ahead.

It also helps to take regular breaks, talk to loved ones, and get all the help you can get if you’re feeling overwhelmed. Property restoration is a long process, so caring for yourself will help you better handle the challenges of rebuilding.

7. File Insurance Claims and Plan for Long-Term Recovery

Report any damage to your insurance company as soon as possible to begin the claims process. Documenting damage early and thoroughly will help ensure you receive appropriate compensation for repairs or replacements.

As you rebuild, it’s wise to consider upgrading your home’s resilience to future storms. Considering enhancements such as storm shutters or roof reinforcements can reduce damage in the future.

Ultimately, use this experience as an opportunity to improve your emergency preparedness. Create a plan, stock up on supplies, and ensure your family knows evacuation routes and procedures. Preparing now can give you peace of mind and ensure readiness for future emergencies.

8. Enlist qualified professionals and industry experts

When planning your property damage recovery, it is crucial to verify the credentials of the professionals working on restoring your home or business. Here’s how to ensure you’re working with reliable experts:

• Verify Industry Certifications: For handling water or mold damage, check that professionals hold certifications like IICRC (Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification). This ensures they follow industry standards and guidelines.

• Confirm General Contractor (GC) Licensing: Ensure anyone involved in reconstruction work has the proper state and local licenses to operate as a general contractor. Licensing requirements may vary, so double-check regulations in your area. Make sure the licensing is also in good standing and has not lapsed or been revoked by the governing body that issues them.

• Request a Current Certificate of Insurance: Always ask for proof of insurance from a licensed insurance entity. This certificate should cover liability and workers' compensation to protect you from potential claims or damage during repairs.

Get the Help You Need To Restore Your Home

The recovery process can be physically and emotionally demanding, but knowing what to do after a hurricane helps you stay safe and get your home back in order soon. Take your time – both immediate cleanup and long-term rebuilding require careful attention to ensure your safety and well-being.

When the task becomes too overwhelming and you need assistance, know that the experts at Restoration 1 are here for you. As a full-service restoration company, we’re equipped to handle water or storm damage and mold, no matter its severity. Our team works diligently and efficiently to help you rebuild and move forward.

Find Your Nearest Restoration 1 and contact your local team. Let our experienced experts guide you through the recovery process, from damage assessment to complete restoration.