Hurricanes are rather stressful weather phenomena for any car owner; they can cause damage to people and property, so it is vital to prepare for disaster before being taken by surprise. Fortunately, there are many steps you can take to avoid being unprepared, as this can mean the difference between danger and safety. Furthermore, by ensuring the mechanical safety of the vehicle and preparing the necessary supplies, you can also position the car in such a way as to minimize damage and learn how to maximize the benefits that you can derive from the insurance policy.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Service the Vehicle
Step 1. Check the parts of the car that require regular maintenance
Replace any that look worn or worn; if some time has passed since the last service, it's time to get another one.
Step 2. Check and top up all fluids as needed
If you need to evacuate quickly, the vehicle must be able to travel safely. Basic fluids are engine, transmission, brake oil, battery fluid, coolant, and wiper cleaner.
Step 3. Replace the wiper blades
If you have to travel during a storm, good visibility is essential. The rubber blades of the brushes are rather easily damaged by the sun and the residues that are deposited on the windshield; try them to make sure they remove a large amount of water from the glass without breaking or slowing down.
Step 4. Inflate the tires to the optimum pressure
You can find this information on the tires themselves or check it on the vehicle's user manual. Note that the number on the tire indicates the maximum calibration pressure, so check the sticker inside the driver's door pillar for more information. Also inspect the spare tire and review the procedures for changing tires.
Step 5. Check with your vehicle insurance agency to find out if the policy provides coverage for damage from the elements
It is important to be aware of this, as well as to know what steps to take if the car is damaged and it is necessary to initiate a claim for compensation.
Step 6. Take photos of the interior and exterior of the vehicle before the storm arrives
They can be useful later in proving any damage caused by the hurricane. You can also consider having the vehicle undergo a full overhaul at a mechanic before the storm, so that you have authoritative documentation to show to the insurance company while also verifying that the vehicle is in good condition.
If your car is damaged, you can start the refund request process as soon as you are safe and able to write it
Method 2 of 3: Prepare the Car for Evacuation
Step 1. Fill the tank and spare cans to maximum capacity
Hurricanes can block access to filling stations and cause out of stock, so you should ensure you have the maximum possible amount of fuel well in advance to avoid long queues at filling stations, out of stock or technical problems.
Step 2. Remove all external and unnecessary accessories
If there are extra antennas, bike racks or other temporary items on the outside of the vehicle, be aware that they can quickly turn into deadly projectiles when very strong winds blow. Store them in a safe place where the wind cannot hit them, such as in the cellar, in the cavities or in a very sturdy outdoor shed.
Step 3. Prepare an emergency kit for the vehicle
The best thing to do is to put all the material in a sturdy and watertight container; However, avoid locking it, as you may need to access it quickly and you may lose your key or forget the combination of the lock. Instead, opt for a container with a quick-release mechanism or a hinge.
The essential items for a survival kit are: a set of car repair tools, Swiss army knife, spare fuses, signal flares, tire putty, an extra liter of engine oil, power steering fluid and antifreeze, sandpaper, duct and insulating tape, jack, battery emergency start cables, flashlight, spare battery, battery-operated radio, pen and paper, blanket, can opener, first aid kit, water and food supplies
Step 4. Prepare a bag with essential personal effects
Include a pair of spare clothes, shoes and socks, the bare essentials for intimate hygiene, spare glasses (if you use them), a mobile phone charger with car adapter, and some cash. Any bag will do as long as it's sturdy, easy to carry and safe, like a suitcase or gym bag. Keep it with you constantly, as you may not be able to go home to get some basic items.
Keep important documents - such as the vehicle registration document, insurance documents, property sheet and a copy of your identity card - in a sealable plastic bag inside the emergency bag
Method 3 of 3: Park Safely
Step 1. Park in an elevated area, close to buildings and away from debris that could fall if you are forced to stand still
Do not leave the car near unsafe or very high structures such as high voltage pylons, traffic lights, road signs or trees; all of these items could fall and cause costly damage. If possible, apply the parking brake.
Step 2. Keep the car in the garage if you can
If you choose to park it in the garage, protect the shutter and windows with sandbags and 1.5-2 cm thick plywood panels; remove the objects from the shelves and the attic by placing them on the ground.
Consider parking the car outside and parallel to the garage door to stop the wind and hopefully prevent the shutter from breaking
Step 3. Reinforce the windows
Use masking tape to completely cover the surface of the crystals with crisscross strips. Although this remedy does not prevent the glass from breaking, it makes cleaning easier by preventing the crystal from scattering into a thousand fragments if this happens. Make sure the roof and windows are perfectly closed.
Step 4. Cover the car
Electrical wiring is prone to corrosion when exposed to salt water; as a result, the transmission, engine and steering can stop working. Use a thick, padded tarp to protect the vehicle and prevent damage from water and flying debris.
Advice
- Keep up to date by listening to news from local and national radio stations to find out if you can drive your vehicle safely.
- Drinking water is the most important element you need to have during a storm; not only is it useful for vehicle maintenance, but it is indispensable for drinking. During emergency situations the minimum stock must be 3 liters per person per day.
Warnings
- Never handle petrol carelessly; avoid splashing, skin contact or inhalation. Store it in a cool, well-ventilated place, away from naked flames or bad weather (for example, store it in a shed outside your home); do not keep it at home or in the garage.
- You should never drive in a hurricane unless absolutely necessary. Normal cars can be washed out of water as deep as 30cm. Avoid flooded roads and estimate the depth of the water by observing other cars; if you have to cross a ford, dry the brakes by pressing the pedal gently and without taking your foot off the accelerator.
