PALM BEACH GARDENS, Fla.- Today, Chief Financial Officer Blaise Ingoglia visited Palm Beach County on his eighth stop in the statewide hurricane preparedness tour. From August to October, Florida enters the peak of hurricane season when a majority of hurricanes and tropical storms take place. Since the initiative launched in May, the Department of Financial Services Division of Consumer Services team has provided 22,000 Floridians with essential safety tips and resources for storm preparedness.

Chief Financial Officer Blaise Ingoglia said, “Preparedness cannot be an afterthought, especially as we enter the peak of the season when hurricanes can form at a moment’s notice. We were lucky last year, and we’ve been lucky so far this year, but we cannot let complacency set in. Taking action now by putting together your emergency kit and organizing your important documents can make a huge difference when a hurricane is on the horizon. My office will continue to assist Floridians by ensuring they have the information and tools needed to stay safe during storms and to recover after a storm impacts the state.”

Former Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater said, “When a hurricane is headed towards Palm Beach County, being prepared is our first line of defense before the wind picks up. Floridians know the threat a hurricane can pose to our communities, which is why being proactive can help protect what matters most and ensure you are ready before conditions worsen.”

Palm Beach Gardens Deputy Fire Chief James Ippolito said, “Our firefighters are the first boots on the ground when it comes to protecting our community after a storm. However, when Palm Beach Gardens residents are prepared, we can respond to emergencies more effectively. Thank you, CFO Ingoglia, for working alongside us and your continued support of first responders.”

Palm Beach Gardens Emergency Management Director David Reyes said, “Preparedness starts at home, such as making a plan, securing important documents, and stocking up on essential resources. All of these simple tips can make a significant difference in post-storm recovery. I am thankful for the work of CFO Ingoglia and his team to educate our residents about the importance of being proactive before a storm.”  

Before a storm strikes:

• Check your home and flood insurance coverage, then compare options to make sure you have the protection you need at the best value. 
• Conduct a home inventory with photos and video of inside and outside of your home. 
• Safeguard important documents in a dry box.  
• Have cash on hand. 
  

After the storm:  

• Report damage to your agent or insurance company.  
• Make emergency repairs to prevent further damage and document them.  
• Beware of fraud and scams.  
• Verify the license of contractors or adjusters.  
• Don’t rush into signing a contract with a public adjuster and call the Consumer Services helpline at 1-877-MY-FL-CFO to see if they can assist you first. 
  

Additional after the storm tips:  

• Take pictures, videos, or written notes of the damage. 
• Do not give your personal information without thoroughly verifying who is receiving it and for what purpose. 
• Do not be in a hurry to sign any contract. Public adjusters charge a fee based on a percentage of the amount recovered from the insurance company. 
• If your vehicle is flooded, do not attempt to drive even if the damage appears to be minimal like wet floor mats. Call the insurance company to file a claim and follow their instructions.     
• Hire licensed and reputable service people, preferably from your community. You can check a contractor's license here. 
• Beware of anyone offering to help after a storm who wants cash only.
• All legitimate contractors must carry insurance. Ask for proof of Liability and Workers’ Compensation coverage.