Hurricane Season Checklist: Safety First on the East Coast

Written by Kim Ayers—Risk Advisor

September 29, 2025 · 4 minute read · Commercial Lines, · Personal Lines

Blog Hurricane Season Checklist: Safety First on the East Coast

As hurricane season intensifies, it's critical to prioritize safety and preparedness.

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Whether you're a homeowner, business owner, or community member, here are essential tips to help you stay safe and resilient:

Follow Local Guidance

Always heed evacuation orders, boil advisories, and safety warnings. Wait for official clearance before entering damaged buildings. Report downed power lines immediately.

Return Safely

Confirm with authorities that it's safe to return to your property. Be cautious—some areas may still be under evacuation.

Stock Up Wisely

Prepare for several days without power. Include medications, pet supplies, and other personal essentials.

Floodwater = Danger

Never drive through flooded roads. Wear a life jacket near flood zones. (THINK AHEAD, DO YOU HAVE ONE?) Wash hands thoroughly after exposure to flood waters and avoid wet electrical devices.

Light Safely

Use flashlights instead of candles. If candles are necessary, keep them away from flammable items and monitor closely. Keep a fire extinguisher nearby—and know how to use it.

Carbon Monoxide Awareness

Never use fuel-powered equipment indoors. Ensure your carbon monoxide detector has a battery backup.

Insect Protection

Use repellents with DEET or picaridin to stay bite-free.

Document Damage

Take photos / videos (IMMEDIATELY BEFORE THE STORM) then of property damage. Make temporary repairs if safe, and save all receipts.

Beware of Scams

Research contractors thoroughly. Verify licenses and insurance before hiring.

Secure Your Documents

Gather all critical insurance and property paperwork.

Recovery Takes Time

Stay hydrated, rest often, and don’t hesitate to ask for help. Let’s protect what matters most—our people, our property, and our peace of mind.

Have questions? Contact:

Kim Ayers

Kim Ayers

Risk Advisor

Call: (252) 362-0216

Since 2016, Kim Ayers has been more than just an insurance agent at Leavitt Group—she’s been a champion for businesses that bring people joy. Focusing on unique and experience-driven industries like agritourism, resorts, campgrounds, corn mazes, haunted attractions, and equine businesses, Kim is dedicated to making sure fun remains safe and sustainable.

She understands that players in this industry -- whether farm stays, RV camping sites, or U-Pick pumpkin patches—face one-of-a-kind risks. From super mega slides and jumping pillows to haunted hayrides and bounce houses, she ensures her clients have the right protection to keep their businesses thriving. Her experience extends deeply into liability coverage, especially for inflatables and high-risk attractions, where having the right insurance isn’t just important—it’s essential.

Kim doesn’t just work in these industries; she’s part of them. She attends major events and conferences to stay connected with her clients and the latest trends. She’s also an active leader in the industry, and has served on the board of directors for multiple associations. Most recently, she was elected to the board of the South Carolina Agritourism Association and was honored with a leadership award from the International Agritourism Association (NAFDMA) for her dedication to the field.

More than anything, Kim believes in hands-on service. She thrives on the road, visiting clients in person, walking their properties, and making sure they have the best coverage at the best price. As an active member of industry organizations like NAFDMA and OHI, she is a trusted resource for risk management, even serving on NAFDMA’s safety panel to help businesses proactively protect their guests. 

At the heart of it all, Kim cares deeply about the people behind the businesses she insures. She knows that fun is serious business—and she’s committed to making sure nothing stands in the way of the experiences her clients create.

When she’s not on the road, Kim enjoys spending time with her three grown daughters, tending her horse farm, gardening, and kayaking.

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Read Kim's full bio

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