As if we need another disaster in the wake of the mind-numbingly depressing BP oil spill, experts say this year’s hurricane season could be a doozy. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration scientists predict an “active to extremely active” season, with a 70 percent chance of 14 to 23 named storms, 14 of those becoming hurricanes.

Not only that, but three to seven of the hurricanes this season — which runs from Jun. 1 to Nov. 30 — could feature winds of at least 111 mph. For comparison, the average season features 11 named storms, with two hurricanes.

What to do if you’re in hurricane country
Don’t throw caution to the wind if you live in hurricane country. Here are some tips for getting ready from the Insurance Information Institute:

• Stock up on home insurance. Make sure you have enough insurance to rebuild your home and replace all your belongings. Call your insurance agent if you’ve done any renovations, and check your additional living expenses coverage, which pays for added costs of living away from home.

• Make sure it’s the right home insurance. Standard home insurance doesn’t cover flood damage. You can get flood insurance from the federal government’s National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and through private carriers if you need coverage above what the NFIP provides. Look into extended replacement cost and guaranteed replacement cost policies, which protect against rising construction costs in case of major disasters.

• Inventory your stuff. Check out the III’s free web-based software at KnowYourStuff.org. A complete inventory will help you get the home insurance or renter’s insurance coverage you need and ensure a smoother claims process.

• Hurricane-proof your home. Install storm shutters, make sure exterior doors have at least three hinges and one-inch deadbolts, and replace your old garage door with one featuring wind-impact and pressure protections.

• Plan how to flee. Plan and practice with your family how you’ll gather your important stuff and your pets if you have to run.
Another disaster is probably the last thing you want to think about, but the better prepared you are, the better you’ll weather the storm.

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