Hurricanes are very powerful, tropical storms that produce heavy winds, excessive rain and towering waves.

Typically, the southern and eastern coastal regions of the U.S. are most vulnerable to these storms. However, as many of us have experienced in the past, New York can be susceptible to tropical storms as well.These storms damage homes and can put families in devastating circumstances.

So, what's the difference between a Hurricane Watch and Hurricane Warning?

Hurricane Watch: Issued when there is a possibility of hurricane conditions within 24-36 hours.

Hurricane Warning: Issued when conditions are expected in a specified area within 24 hours or less.

You should begin following the preparation steps below when a watch is issued..

Know what to do before, during and after a hurricane. Select an option below.

Before

• Put together an Emergency Supply Kit.
• Turn on your TV, radio, smart phone, laptop, tablet, etc. for emergency information or instructions.
• Choose a location where family members will meet if separated during the storm.
• Plan an evacuation route. This should be the quickest route to a safe location.
• Appoint an out-of-town relative to be your "family contact". After a disaster, anyone not at home should contact this person.
• Keep trees trimmed to prevent them from coming in contact with your roof.
• Keep roofs and gutters free of leaves, branches and other debris.
• Keep valuable papers and other important items in secure places.
• Inspect your roof, including the valleys and around chimneys. Look for curling shingles or any maintenance needed to ensure you will not have any leaks due to the heavy rains.
• Remove animals from harm's way and into shelter.
• Fuel your car in case you need to leave your home.
• Obtain items such as plywood that you'll need to secure your home.
• Close all doors and secure all windows.
• Any object that could become flying debris should be moved from your yard and secured in your garage or home.
  

During

• Turn off and unplug all utilities, appliances, and electronics.
• Obey evacuation instructions from local authorities.
• If at home, stay inside and away from windows and glass doors.
• Identify the safest rooms in your house and wait out the storm there. The safest rooms would include the basement or any room with the fewest number of windows. Make sure you still have access to your Emergency Supply Kit.
• Do not go outside even if the weather appears to have calmed. To ensure the storm has passed, turn on your TV, radio, smart phone, laptop, tablet, etc. or contact the local authorities.
  

After

• Return home only when local authorities have advised it is safe to do so.
• Before entering your home, check for any structural damage.
• Upon entering your home, look for hazards such as loose wires, damaged gas lines and submerged electrical appliances.
• Have all utilities and electrical appliances checked by a professional before use.
• Keep all circuit breakers turned off until power has been restored.
• Boil all drinking water.
• Clean up any glass or other debris from the storm to prevent any further injury and/or damage. Wear proper shoes and gloves when cleaning up.
• Dry and bleach all materials in your home to prevent the growth of mold.
• Protect your property from further damage by using plywood, tarps or other materials to cover broken windows or holes in roofs.
• Make a list of your damaged property and do not dispose of it. Do not throw anything away as your insurance adjustor needs to inspect damaged items.
• Save receipts for any money you spend related to the loss. Your insurance company may need these to settle your claim.
• It's important to contact your NYCM Insurance Agent right away to report any damages to your property. You can also contact us directly at 800-234-6926. Customer Service is available 24/7/365.