Peak of hurricane season here, multiple storms forming

Does a hurricane need to make your home a bull’s eye before you prepare? People who prefer being the calm before the storm are restocking their hurricane supplies this week – before weather watches and warning throw everyone else into frenzy. Peak hurricane season starts now.

The American Red Cross has a hurricane preparedness checklist with supplies you should have on hand. Emergency managers have stressed for years that people need to take care of their own needs for at least three days following a major storm. That may be tough for some people this year with the troubled economy. If you are among the fortunate who can reach out to neighbors, maybe you can increase your stockpile for sharing. A disaster supply kit should cover your needs for three days because it typically takes that long for emergency services to get to a storm-damaged scene.

Put a weather radio on your shopping list. These radio receivers will alert you to approaching weather conditions, such as tornadoes that pop up unexpectedly. A weather radio can be a lifesaver, and although the sound of the alarm blaring in the middle of the night has knocked me out of deep sleep, it also reminds me of how smart I was to purchase it. They are available from many retail outlets and online.

Check your insurance policy for the amount of your hurricane deductible. Homes valued at $100,000 and higher have a minimum 2 percent hurricane deductible. Read more on how hurricane deductibles work so you know what to expect if you should suffer damage.  Remember that your homeowners insurance policy does not provide coverage for flood damage, so talk to your insurer about purchasing flood insurance from the National Flood Insurance Program. Some private insurers also offer excess flood coverage if what you purchase from the federal program is insufficient.

Hurricane Danielle is not expected to threaten the U.S., and neither is Earl who is following close behind. But there will be another storm coming, and if it comes this way, being ready for hurricanes is the best place to be.