Be Prepared in Advance of a Hurricane

With hurricane season in full swing, your friends at OceanPoint would like to remind you of the importance of being prepared.

According to the Weather Channel, the number of hurricanes and tropical storms begins to increase slowly through July and then rises in August, peaking in September. However, despite these statistics, there is no way of predicting exactly when these natural disasters will strike. Among the biggest hurricanes the Northeast has experienced, Irene and Katrina arrived in August, Earl in September, and Sandy hit in October just 5 years ago.

To safeguard your home from the next big hurricane, please consider the following:
  • Review the limits of your current policy. Remember, the real estate value of a house is not the same as the cost to rebuild.
  • Research what disasters are covered by your existing policy. Be sure you are covered in the event of a hurricane.
  • Examine your current policy to see if you need to add flood insurance. This specialty insurance is a necessity for coastal properties.
  • Complete a home inventory. Keeping a record of your possessions, including receipts and photos when possible, will help make the claims process much easier.
  • Secure your home. Repair loose boards, shingles, shutters, downspouts, etc. If you live near the coast, purchase and store materials you may need to board up windows.
  • Assemble a Basic Disaster Supply Kit. Include water, non-perishable food, crank radio, flashlight, first aid kit, whistle, portable chargers, and a wrench for shutting off utilities.

In several states, including Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and Connecticut, insurance companies offer a special deductible for hurricane damage. A hurricane deductible applies to damage caused solely from a hurricane as categorized by the National Weather Service.

While hurricane deductibles are not mandatory, many insurers require them as a condition for coverage near the coast. As an agency that provides homeowners insurance to many coastal homes, OceanPoint also represents carriers who specialize in coastal coverage that do not require hurricane deductibles.

For more information on hurricane deductibles, or if you have any questions about your homeowners’ policy, please call OceanPoint Insurance at 401.847.5200.

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Insure Your Summer Fun with OceanPoint

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With summer finally upon us, many families are taking to the outdoors. No matter where your summer adventures take you, OceanPoint Insurance would like to remind you of the importance of reviewing your current insurance policies. To ensure they are providing the levels of protection you need, we encourage you to talk with your OceanPoint agent to make certain you are properly insured.

Summer Toys:

Most people understand the need for RV and motorcycle insurance, but did you know that recreational vehicles also require insurance? Take a look at the different vehicle coverage we at OceanPoint have available:

  • Jet Skis: Jet Ski insurance, though not legally mandatory, is simply a good idea due to the risks of the sport. Factors like hidden rocks or busy motorways put drivers at risk.
  • Motorcycles: Liability insurance is mandatory in RI and pays for damages or injuries you cause in an accident, as well as your legal defense if needed.
  • ATV’s: ATV insurance provides the coverage you need specifically for off-roading. Your policy will cover damage or injuries from an ATV accident, up to the limits of your policy.
  • Boats/Yachts: If you enjoy fishing, sailing, yachting, or cruising around on a powerboat, make sure you have boat insurance that covers your liability risk as well as your watercraft, equipment and passengers.
  • Motorhomes: Motorhome liability insurance is mandatory in RI and will cover the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle after an accident. Whether you are heading down the coast or traveling north to the mountains, be sure you are covered.
Summer Parties:

Before you host your next graduation party, cocktail party, or backyard barbeque, be sure to protect yourself and your guests. Listed below are some tips for keeping your summer party safe and avoiding claims on your homeowner’s insurance:

  • Before a party, take the time to make sure your yard (or party area) is free of uneven patches of ground, mounds and holes, and that entryways are clear of tripping hazards.
  • If you have a fire pit, be sure it is at least 10 feet away from any structure or combustible surface.
  • Always have a container of water nearby and a garden hose on standby before starting a fire.
  • Check gas grill hoses to ensure they’re not blocked, cracked or damaged before use.
  • Operate your barbecue on a level surface, away from your house, garage and landscaping. Never move the grill once it is lit.
  • Make sure no one swims alone. Never leave a child unattended in the water or pool area, and see that less experienced swimmers are always accompanied by a swimmer who has water life-saving skills.

To fully enjoy all your summer fun, make sure you have the insurance protection you need. If you have questions about your insurance policy call OceanPoint Insurance at 401.847.5200.

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