The weather is an unpredictable part of life that we all have to deal with. Since we cannot be sure of when and where a dangerous storm can hit, that requires us to be prepared for when it does. Whether it is a windstorm like a tornado or a winter event like an ice storm, we need to be properly prepared for storm season and how it could affect our lives, home, and finances here in Oklahoma.
Fortunately, there are some things we can do to ensure we are ready for the next major storm that comes our way, and the team at Allegiance Credit Union offers these tips to help you prepare for the upcoming storm season in our area.
It is important to have the things you need gathered and assembled for when a storm hits our area. Be sure to include important things in an emergency kit like plenty of fresh water, easy and convenient non-perishable food for a few days, all necessary medications, a first aid kit, a flashlight, a radio, and batteries for both. It’s also important to have your bank account info as well as debit/credit cards and cash on hand so you can get what you need if the storm causes extended outages or issues.
Consider this emergency supply kit checklist.
One gallon of water for each person per day
Supply of non-perishable food items
Manual can openers and plastic utensils
First aid kit with over-the-counter medication
Flashlights and plenty of batteries
Pet food and supplies
Toiletry items and moist towelettes
Storm season reminds us that some things are too valuable to leave to chance. Fortunately, Allegiance Credit Union offers the use of a safe deposit box for members, which is an invaluable service when it comes to keeping important documents and other items safe during storm season. Giving you the peace of mind knowing your valuables are safe in an Allegiance safe deposit box during an Oklahoma storm is just another way we take care of our members.
It is important to document your home and personal property, and taking videos of everything really helps prove value in the case of a loss. Go to each room and take a video of the items and note the estimated value and when they were purchased, if possible. It’s also a good idea after the storm to document any damage that may have occurred that will involve insurance companies or a claim on your homeowners' insurance, so there is no question about the before and after condition and the damage caused by the storm.
If you know in advance of the impending storm, making an effort to protect your property is a smart idea. Consider covering windows with plywood or shutters, parking vehicles in the garage or away from trees, and be sure to move or secure loose outdoor items such as lawn furniture, plants, and grills that can become dangerous when tossed around by storm winds. The better you prepare for a storm in advance, the less damage and loss you are likely to have.
An important way to prepare for storms is to make sure you have enough insurance on your property and belongings. Make it a point to evaluate coverage each year before the beginning of storm season to confirm the coverage of your homeowner insurance policies. Yearly inflation means that the coverage you had last year may not be sufficient for this storm season. Allegiance Credit Union offers the convenience of homeowners insurance for members through a partnership with MemberHaven Insurance.
Homeowners do not need to deplete their savings to protect their loved ones before the storm season arrives. Financing the project through a specialized Storm Shelter Loan provides a cost-effective way to fund the project. Property owners can enjoy low-interest opportunities and flexible repayment terms. You’ll also gain the peace of mind that comes with knowing you have a safe place on the property.
At Allegiance, we provide Storm Shelter Loans to our valued community members. If you are considering improving home safety by adding a storm shelter, contact us today, and let’s get the process started!
Being prepared for a storm is not just a task for Oklahoma homeowners. Everyone should ensure their safety as well as that of important documents and valuable items during storm season. For those who are still future homeowners, now is the time to consider a renters’ insurance policy to protect your belongings while you are renting a place to live. A renters’ insurance policy will cover your personal property or the contents of the rented space in the event of a damaging storm as well as other situations such as theft. From safety deposit boxes to assistance with finances during emergency storm situations, Allegiance is here to help, so be sure to reach out if we can help!
Your friends at Allegiance Credit Union care about your safety during storm season and want to make sure you and your assets are always protected. From keeping your valuables secure in a safe deposit box to assisting with all of your homeowner’s insurance needs, we are here to help on sunny days and during stormy weather. We invite you to contact us today to learn more about how you can be prepared for life’s storms and all the different ways the team at Allegiance can help with your journey!