Emergency Preparedness You Should Know this Hurricane Season in Mexico

The hurricane season is nothing new for anyone who lives or works in Mexico. Hurricanes and other tropical storms often complete their life cycles in the ocean without ever making landfall. However, if they do touch land, you must be well prepared and be ready to ride out the storm!

Although the hurricane season in Mexico officially lasts from June to November, the months of July through September see the emergence of the vast majority of storms. These storms can result in a number of hazardous conditions, including flash floods, high winds, and strong rip currents.

Regardless of whether you currently live in Mexico or are thinking about moving here in the future, follow these steps to prepare for a hurricane and keep yourself and your loved ones safe:

Firstly, be sure that you and everyone in your home have a plan in case of an emergency. And with that in mind, make sure that every one of you can respond appropriately to the following four questions:

• How will you be notified of emergencies and alerts?
• Have you made any plans for a shelter?
• Have you made any evacuation plans?
• How do you intend to stay in touch with one another during and after the storm?

Next, make sure you register with the embassy or consulate of your home country. You are eligible to participate in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) if you are a resident or citizen of the United States. This will allow you to receive notifications, updates, and other information on hurricane activity in the area. Get in touch with Registration of Canadians Abroad if you are a citizen or resident of Canada to utilize the same service.

Make sure that your travel documents are kept in a safe location. Check that they are updated so you can quickly grab them when needed. You might want to keep them in a watertight container or bag for added peace of mind.

Prepare yourself for a hurricane by stocking your home with essential items — think, a hurricane kit. So what should you keep in this kit? We recommend water and food for at least 72 hours, battery-powered radio, flashlight, first aid kit, extra batteries, dust mask, plastic sheeting and duct tape, wrench or pliers, and local maps.

Keep an eye on the US National Hurricane Center for the latest storm activity and emergency response information. You could also check out the site for the Servicio Meteorológico Nacional.

If you own a home in Mexico and do not have a Mexican homeowners insurance policy, you should secure one as soon as possible to protect your financial investment. If you already have insurance, you should review the documents related to your policy to see whether it includes hurricane coverage. West Coast Global Insurance Services has made it easy to protect your investment from the risks of hurricanes and tropical storms. Visit their website here to learn more and to get a free no hassle quote, for the most reliable Mexican Insurance coverage available throughout Mexico.

West Coast Global Insurance Services is dedicated to continuously researching our industry for the most comprehensive, best-priced insurance policies available in Mexico.