Things to do before, during and after a tropical storm or hurricane

It is a reality that each year we could see an increase in the activity of atmospheric events, bringing with it a greater risk, due to our geographical position. In recent years, Puerto Rico has gained greater awareness of the hurricane season. We share a series of tips that you can implement, as part of your family emergency plan, to protect your life and your property against any activity produced by a storm or hurricane.

Before the storm or hurricane

1. Take all necessary precautions to protect your property. The three most vulnerable areas that we must protect from significant damage are:
   • The roof structure
   • The windows
   • Access doors (including the garage door)
2. Remove debris around the property that could become projectiles: If you live in low lands or flood zones, go to a shelter. Take only what’s necessary, such as clothing, important documents, and medications.
3. Review your insurance policies. Make sure your payments are up to date. It is important to check if you have coverage for hurricanes and for flood if you live in a flood prone area. Also make sure you have coverage for both the structure of your home and for you belongings. Keep handy a copy of your policy, loan number and banking entity if you have a mortgage. If you live in an apartment, know what coverage has been selected by the Board of Owners, as well as its limits.
4. Take photos and videos of your home before the emergency. This will help you in case of a claim for damages.
5. Have an emergency bag ready. Include clothes, canned food, flash lights, batteries, band-aids and medications in an emergency bag ready to use, along with a copy of important documents, such as birth certificates, passports and insurance policies. Store your bag near the front door or another area to which you will have easy access in case of an emergency. Inspect the contents every few months to make sure canned foods are not expired. In the event of a hurricane watch or warning, remember to also store your mobile phone and its charger when you are not using it in case you need to exit in a hurry.

During the Storm/Hurricane

1. Stay in a safe place. The most important thing during a storm is to protect yourself and your family. Stay away from windows and doors because the wind can seriously damage them.
2. Do not go out on the street. Stay away from rivers and streams.
3. Disconnect all unnecessary electronic appliances to avoid damages damage due to voltage changes to the equipment and reduce the risk of receiving an electric shock if your property gets wet or flooded.
4. Avoid fires. Select a battery flashlight instead of candles or gas lamps.
5. Use the phone only for emergencies. To keep communicated use text messages instead.
6. Protect your pets. Have food and water ready as well as a designated area for them indoors. Talk to a veterinarian if your pet needs special attention or medications during the event.

After the Storm/Hurricane

1. Assess if your property suffered any structural damage. Take photos and videos of all damaged property.
   1. If you are a client of Popular Insurance and have a claim, call 787-706-4111 or visit our offices at Popular Risk Services 1451 Ave FD Roosevelt Caparra Center Building, floor M, San Juan, Puerto Rico; If you are a client of Popular Risk Services and have a claim, call 787-731-6900 or visit our offices at 1451 Ave. FD Roosevelt Edificio Caparra Center, Piso M in San Juan. You can also access our Claims Section in our webpage to submit your claim. When submitting your claim you will need your insurance policy number, and loan number if you have a mortgage, a brief description of damages and a monetary estimate. Visit our insurance Frequently Asked Questions for more details on the claims process. Don’t forget to stay in touch with your insurance producer if you have any questions about your policy and doubts about the claim process.
2. Protect your property for further damages. If a window broke cover it with wood or other material, but do not dispose of damaged property until an insurance adjuster has inspected it. As long as it does not affect your health and safety, do not dispose of the damaged property until it has been inspected by an adjuster.
3. Do not get near fallen electric cables. Do not touch anything that is in contact with them. Cables could be energized.
4. Be very careful when turning on electric plants. Consult the equipment management guide and remember to perform the required maintenance to avoid any eventuality.

Prevention and planning are the best tools to guarantee the health and well-being of your loved ones. Visit popular.com/en/insurance/ and learn more about the policies we offer. If you want to learn about how to protect your life and property in the event of an atmospheric event, contact Popular Risk Services¹ today at 787-731-6900 or write to us at prssales@popular.com.

¹The information provided in these guides is for informational purposes only. Insurance products and services are offered by Popular Risk Services, LLC, a subsidiary of Popular, Inc. and an affiliate of Banco Popular de Puerto Rico. Insurance products are not deposits, are not insured by the FDIC or other federal government agencies, are not guaranteed by Banco Popular de Puerto Rico, and may lose value. *Sources: www.listo.gov and www.fema.gov.