The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is urging Americans to prepare themselves for a torrid hurricane season, by planning ahead and investing in travel insurance.

Hurricane-force winds can spread destruction far beyond the eye of the storm, causing flash flooding and scattering deadly debris, the agency warns.

Vacationers planning a trip to Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina, Louisiana, Alabama, or Mississippi should be aware of the risks, particularly as the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration is predicting one of the worst hurricane seasons for years.

Being prepared can minimize injury, but only travel insurance can provide some kind of respite in the worst case scenario, with compensation for injuries, lost luggage and travel delays as a result of inclement weather.

Depending on whether you plan to stay in a hotel or rent accommodation this summer, the EPA recommends having food and drink supplies ready should you need to take shelter from a hurricane.

When a powerful storm hits, the agency advises people to listen to the TV or radio for information, turn off all utilities and avoid using phones, except in a serious emergency. Stay out of high-rises and avoid coastal areas, river banks and flood plains.

A full list of tips is available on the EPA website. For travel insurance, look no further than Squaremouth, where you can compare the country’s leading providers and take advantage of the industry’s only zero complaint guarantee.

Contributed by J.Bevan