| |
Preparedness is key to surviving the
next natural disaster
Disaster Resources
SEATTLE - Natural disasters can devastate entire regions and
cause severe physical and economic damage. Whether it's an earthquake,
wildfire, flood or windstorm, Northwest residents need to be ready.
Developing a disaster preparedness plan will increase your chances
of saving your family and property from a catastrophic loss.
"We have a wide variety of potential natural disasters in the
Northwest," said Karl Newman, NW Insurance Council president.
"Fortunately, you don't need a completely separate plan for each
disaster. Put together a comprehensive plan that takes into account
your risk of earthquake, wildfire, flood, windstorm, landslides,
tsunamis and freezing weather."
The NW Insurance Council offers the following tips to help you
develop an effective disaster preparedness plan for surviving
the next disaster:
- Review your insurance policies to be sure you have the right
coverage to meet your needs. Find out what your insurance
will cover. Standard homeowners insurance does not cover damage
caused by flood, earthquake, landslides or tsunamis.
- Flood Insurance may be purchased through the National Flood
Insurance Program. You may purchase earthquake coverage separately
through your homeowners insurance company.
- Develop a comprehensive home inventory of your personal
property. A complete inventory of your possessions will help
in obtaining insurance settlements and/or tax deductions for
losses. Don't trust your memory. List descriptions, take pictures
and include receipts if possible. Store your home inventory
and insurance papers in waterproof containers offsite in a
safety deposit box or with a friend. NW Insurance Council
offers free downloadable Home Inventory software from the
Insurance Information Institute. Visit www.nwinsurance.org.
- Become familiar with your community's disaster preparedness
plans.
- Develop an emergency kit that includes a three-day supply
of drinking water and food you don't have to refrigerate or
cook. The kit should also contain first aid supplies, a weather
radio, batteries, clothing, blankets, medicine, copies of
your insurance policies and some basic tools. More disaster
planning resources are available at http//www.redcross.org.
- Plan an escape route in the event you have to evacuate your
home.
- Check with city or county officials for low points in the
event of a flood.
- Be sure your vehicle has a full tank of gas.
- Determine the location of the nearest official shelter.
The Red Cross can locate the shelter nearest your home and
explain what you should bring with you.
For more information on preparing for a disaster, visit NW
Insurance Council or you can request a free home inventory
booklet by calling (800) 664-4942.
The NW Insurance Council is a nonprofit, public education
organization funded by member insurance companies serving Washington,
Oregon and Idaho.
###
|