Hill Country Homeowner’s Guide to Staying Weather-Ready

Hey there, Hill Country homeowners! Whether you’re nestled among the cypress-lined hills near Kerrville or soaking up the relaxed vibe around Blanco, we’ve got a simple — yet savvy — guide to help you rest easy when Mother Nature decides to stir things up.

1. Check Your Coverage — Seriously

Before a twister—or even a wild hailstorm—decides to visit, make sure your home insurance has your back. If unsure, reach out! At Dowd Insurance Agency, we’ll help you review your policy to make sure everything’s covered—especially for those weird West-Texas-sized hailstones that sometimes wander our way.

2. Map Out a Family Plan

Create a “where-to-go and how-to-say-we’re-safe” plan. Maybe your go-to safe spot is the bathtub during a storm, or perhaps you’ve got a neighbor whose porch is extra sturdy—just make sure everyone knows the plan.

3. Build (and Update!) a Home Inventory

Snap pics, jot down serial numbers, or bullet-list your most treasured belongings. From cowboy boots to grandma’s heirloom china, keep track of what you’ve got—and update that sheet when summer barbecue gear or that new Smart TV make their debut.

4. Survival Kit: Your Home’s Emergency Fanny Pack

Think of it as the Swiss Army knife of preparedness. Here’s what you’ll want in there:

• Water (one gallon per person, per day, plus pet water—even your pooch will thank you)
• Canned food (with a manual can opener—battery-drained isn’t an excuse!)
• Flashlight, batteries, and a battery-powered or hand-crank radio
• First-aid kit and hygiene essentials
• Extra blankets and clothing for those Hill Country chills
• Chargers (preferably with car adapters too), whistle, and pen + notebook for jotting down emergency contacts or your famous chili recipe
• Copies of important documents—insurance policy, home inventory—stuff you can grab and go
• Bug spray (for when the mosquitos are in full swing)

5. Maintenance = Prevention

Trim those overhanging tree limbs, clear gutters of leaves, and remove debris around your house to minimize storm damage. It’s like giving your home a spa day—but with a chain saw and ladder.

Why It Matters Here in Central Texas

From sudden hailstorms and flash floods to the occasional tornado, the Hill Country weather likes to keep us on our toes. Being prepared means you can enjoy life—with less worry and more BBQs—and know Dowd Insurance Agency is right here, keeping you covered.

Quick Checklist Recap:

• Review your coverage with us
• Set up a household safety plan
• Create/update your home inventory
• Pack a thoroughly stocked emergency kit
• Perform routine home maintenance

Stay safe, stay prepared—and let us help you keep Texas-sized storms from turning your world upside down.