As hurricane season begins, preparation is more than just a checklist—it's your best defense. At The Shanken Team, we believe in equipping our community with the resources, knowledge, and support they need to weather any storm. This guide outlines critical steps and resources available to homeowners and business owners before, during, and after a hurricane.

📋 Disaster Assistance Programs

Small Business Administration (SBA) Assistance

If your home or business is impacted by a hurricane, the SBA offers:

• Physical Damage Loans: Low-interest loans for repairing or replacing property damaged by hurricanes.

• Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL): Working capital loans for businesses suffering financial loss due to a disaster.

Federal Disaster Resources

• FEMA Assistance: Grants for temporary housing, repairs, and other disaster-related needs. Apply at DisasterAssistance.gov.

• NOAA Weather Updates: Real-time storm warnings and safety measures via the National Weather Service.

🏠 Financial Support for Homeowners & Businesses

• SBA Loans: Apply to repair or replace real estate and personal property after hurricane damage.

• Flood Insurance: Even outside flood zones, coverage is essential. Most homeowners’ insurance doesn’t include flooding, so consider a separate policy through NFIP (National Flood Insurance Program).

🌆 Local & State Resources

Local Emergency Management

Stay updated on evacuation orders, shelter locations, and storm information through your county’s emergency management office. Liberty County, for example, provides timely updates on social media and its official site.

Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency (GEMA)

GEMA offers:

• Shelter information

• Recovery announcements

• Preparedness guidance for residents and business owners across Georgia

🛡️ Preparing for Future Hurricanes

1. Review Your Insurance

• Homeowners: Ensure wind damage is covered; consider adding flood insurance.

• Business Owners: Confirm your commercial policy includes hurricane-related damage.

2. Safeguard Important Documents

Keep paper copies in a waterproof container and digital versions in cloud storage.

3. Pet Care Planning

Prepare a pet emergency kit and identify pet-friendly shelters in advance.

🚨 Preparedness Tips

✔️ Evacuation Routes

Know your county’s evacuation plan—Liberty County and GEMA provide routes and shelter details during hurricane alerts.

✔️ Property Protection

• Secure outdoor furniture and trash bins

• Board up or shutter windows

• Relocate valuables to upper floors

✔️ Communication Plan

Establish a family check-in system, especially with an out-of-town contact in case of separation.

🧰 Emergency Kit Essentials

Make sure your kit includes:

• Water: One gallon per person per day

• Non-perishable food: Enough for 3 days

• First aid supplies: Include medications and disinfectants

• Flashlights & extra batteries

• Copies of important documents: Insurance, medical, ID

• Cash: In case ATMs are down

🛠️ Recovery & Rebuilding Support

FEMA Grants and SBA Loans

Apply for FEMA grants for short-term housing and essential repairs. SBA loans can assist with longer-term rebuilding needs.

Rebuilding Safely

Choose resilient materials like impact-resistant windows or reinforced roofing. Check with local authorities for permits and possible incentives to enhance hurricane resistance.

💬 We’re Here to Help

Hurricane preparedness and recovery are ongoing efforts. By using this guide, you can reduce your risks and improve your response. For tailored support, contact The Shanken Team—we’ll help you understand your options and ensure you're protected every step of the way.