Hurricane Season

If you find yourself within hours or days of a hurricane striking your area, and you haven't done anything to get ready, don't panic. There are several things you can do in the last few hours to be better prepared.

• If you're an Allstate policyholder, register with the Customer Care Center at allstate.com. This will give you 24/7 access to your insurance policies, let you report claims and track them.
• 1-800-54-STORM (1-800-547-8676). Write this number down or put it in your cell phone. Allstate policyholders will need it after the storm if you need to file a claim.
• Secure buildings on your property by closing and boarding up windows. Remove outside antennas if it is safe to do so.
• Bring all lawn furniture, outdoor decorations, trash cans, hanging plants (and anything else that could be picked up by the wind) inside. Anchor objects that cannot be brought inside.
• Turn your refrigerator to its coldest setting.
• Fill up your bathtub, sinks and other large containers with fresh water. This will serve as an important reserve should you be without running water after a storm.
• If you must leave your car outdoors, park as close to a building as possible. Move your car away from trees or poles that may topple onto it.
• Make sure you fill your car's gas tank. If you are forced to evacuate, you won't want to be stuck in a long line at the gas station, or hunting for gas if all the stations run out.
• Get emergency cash.