Gallagher: Time to Prepare for Potential Storm

With Hurricane Isabel spinning in the Atlantic and heading toward likely landfall somewhere along the southeastern United States, Florida Chief Financial Officer Tom Gallagher is warning homeowners that it is critical now to prepare for a potential strike.

“Being prepared can save lives, property and a lot of heartache,” Gallagher said. “With Isabel fast approaching, I’m urging Floridians to take action to protect themselves, their homes and their businesses.”

To track the storm and to get tips on how to prepare for a storm, visit the Department of Financial Services’ website at www.fldfs.com and click on “Storm Watch.”

Gallagher said Floridians concerned about their homeowners’ coverage or who are in the process of buying a home should call their agent immediately. According to Gallagher, many insurance companies will not write or update policies if the storm is within a certain boundary. Citizens Property Insurance Corporation, the state’s property insurer of last resort, will continue to write and update policies until a storm warning or watch is in effect.

Homeowners who need flood coverage, however, may have reportedly waited too late to get coverage for this potential storm. Flood insurance, provided through the National Flood Insurance Program, takes 30 days to activate.