As forecasters track Tropical Storm Florence's approach to the east coast, Georgia's Insurance Commissioner is advising people to start planning precautions for any impact the storm might have on the state.
The latest information is that the storm is expected to strengthen into a hurricane and possibly threatened the U.S. east coast in the coming days.
Ralph Hudgens issued a statement Saturday evening, warning homeowners to make copies of their insurance policies and take those, along with their insurance company's phone number, should they be forced to leave their homes.
"Being prepared can save lives, property and a lot of misery," Hudgens said. "With Florence quickly approaching, I'm urging all Georgia residents to take action to protect themselves, their homes and their businesses."
He said people should start identifying their storm shelters, inventory their belongings and cover up any existing damaged spots on their homes with tarps or other coverings. In the statement, Hudgens also advised people to check their home insurance policies, since many do not include coverage for water damage.
Anyone with questions about insurance for storm damage can call the Insurance Commissioner's Consumer Services Hotline at 800-656-2298, which is available on weekdays from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
