Nothing can equal the destruction Mother Nature delivers during a hurricane, and meteorologists are anticipating a particularly nasty season. To avoid financial and physical loss, take action today.

Preparing for a hurricane includes doing more than boarding up the windows with plywood and buying extra batteries at the grocery store. It also requires making smart financial moves, like clearing up credit card balances with a debt consolidation loan, or creating an inventory of valuable items. Here are some tips to help you prepare financially for the upcoming hurricane season:

Safety for important documents

Put important documents in a safe place, regardless of the season. Store important financial papers like Social Security cards, birth certificates, and wills in a fireproof safe or safety deposit box. In addition to hurricanes, a flood or a fire could easily wipe out these essential papers, so take the necessary steps to safeguard them.

Clear up credit card balances

In the event that a hurricane destroys your dwelling, you may find yourself on the go without access to your bank or credit union. You'll probably have to rely on your plastic for funds. If you're currently at your credit limit with one or two cards, consider using a debt consolidation loan to clear a balance. It's wise to keep a card open with a sizable credit limit for the worst-case scenario.

Inventory precious items

Maintaining an inventory of your valuables will help you in the insurance claim process. Create a list detailing all such possessions: Furniture, electronics, jewelry, dishes, appliances, etc. It will take some time, but once you've completed it, you can quickly make updates when there's a new purchase.

Update homeowner's insurance

After you've created your inventory list, contact your insurance agent and discuss your needs. Present the list, and discuss any home improvements you've made recently. The correct valuation of your home will be essential when you're filing a claim.

Prepare a survival kit

In the event that your home is leveled by a hurricane, you'll need access to essential items like water, flashlights, a change of clothes, and sturdy shoes. Store them in a strong, easily accessible box. Set aside work gloves and tools for removing debris, such as shovels and crowbars.

Make a temporary living plan

After Hurricane Katrina ravaged New Orleans, many residents were left homeless and wandered the countryside. Instead of having to scramble for emergency lodging, take the initiative and call friends and relatives today. Discuss the possibility of staying with them in the event of a crisis. Also, revisit your insurance policy to determine if it provides living expenses for a temporary residence.

Preparing for the destructive effects of a hurricane may seem like an act of futility. You can't do much to stop the physical damage inflicted by Mother Nature, but taking these upfront steps can mitigate the financial toll. For hurricane season, the mantra of the Boy Scouts must include an addendum: Be prepared, or you'll be sorry.