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.

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