The arrival of Tropical Storm Debby serves as a reminder to always be prepared when it comes to travel as extreme weather can affect plans. As the 2012 hurricane season gets started, with Debby being the fourth storm, travelers should prepare by getting travel insurance in advance and know how to stay safe during massive summer storms.
Tropical Storm Debby is slowly making its way across the Gulf of Mexico and the panhandle of Florida. The storm has created torrential downpours, flooding, high winds at up to 65 miles per hour and even some tornadoes. Debby is expected to die down as it makes its way up north, but this early tropical storm is a good reminder that people should know how to stay safe if a stronger storm comes along and travelers should have their travel insurance ready in advance.
CSA Travel Protection, a company that provides travelers insurance and emergency services to travelers released their advice on staying safe and preparing for a tropical storm or hurricane. They offer helpful tips for before, during and after the storm hits.
There are several preventative measures that people should take when a storm is approaching. People should have evacuations plans and a place to evacuate to if necessary. If traveling, travelers should ask property management about where the safest nearby locations are. Listen to local media stations so you're aware of evacuation orders or other important information. People should have water and food stored for at least a few days for emergency purposes. Keep in mind that not all hotels and roads may be open during a hurricane, so know which routes and accommodations will still be available.
There are also several tips for those who find themselves in the midst of a hurricane. The most important thing to do is to remain calm. If electricity is working, continuously monitor local media for up-to-date information. If an evacuation order goes into effect, leave immediately. If not, stay away from windows and doors and stick to a room on the lowest lever of the building as high winds affect higher altitudes most. Don't let the eye of the storm fool you. The middle of the storm may seem peaceful, but it could be coming back for round two. Wait for an official confirmation that the storm is really over.
Once the storm is over, stay indoors until officials say the storm has ended. If you had to evacuate, wait for an official to say that it is safe to return. Wait to hear if tap water is safe before drinking it. Check for gas leaks and open windows and leave the building if you smell gas. Make sure electrical installations are intact and not burning or sparking. Lastly, check for damage to water and sewer pipes. If there is damage, don't use the bathroom or tap water and call a plumber.
CSA and Robert McWhorter, president of Elite Travel in Decatur, Alabama recommend that travelers get travel insurance and get it before it's too late. McWhorter told WAFF that travel insurance can reimburse you if a flight or hotel reservation is canceled due to the weather. However, he recommends getting insured before booking a trip, as you won't be able to get it when you know that a storm is coming near your trip date.
For more information about travel insurance, visit www.csatravelprotection.com.
This article is copyrighted by Travelers Today, the travel news leader
