When Earthquakes Strike

Earthquakes rattle Central Idaho – here’s what to know about Insurance

A recent swarm of earthquakes in Central Idaho has renewed concerns about seismic activity in the region. While no damage has been reported, the tremors serve as a startling reminder to take steps before disaster strikes to help protect your home, family and businesses from earthquake damage.

Knowing how to stay safe during an earthquake is vital, but protecting your family’s financial future is just as important. And many people don’t realize that most standard homeowners and business insurance policies don’t cover earthquake damage.

NW Insurance Council shares these earthquake safety tips and insurance information:

• Consider Earthquake Insurance for your home and business.  Check with your insurance company, agent or specialty carrier to find out about your coverage options.
• Earthquake insurance policies may only cover a portion of the loss, and/or may have different deductible levels, so it is important to compare policies, limits and costs before your buy. And remember, you can’t buy a policy after the damage has occurred, so now is the time to research and consider this coverage.

• Damage to vehicles caused by an earthquake is covered if owners add optional Comprehensive Coverage to their auto policies. Damage to personal contents inside a vehicle is covered under standard Homeowners or Renters insurance, but those losses are all subject to deductibles, which you and your insurer or agent determine at the time your policy is issued.
• Keep a detailed home inventory with item descriptions, serial numbers, purchase info, and receipts. A quick video walk-through with your phone can also help speed up claims. Inventory apps are available online or from many insurers.
• When an earthquake strikes, remain indoors and use the internationally recognized protocol: “Drop to the ground, Cover by getting under a sturdy desk or table and Hold on until the shaking stops.” 
• Disaster experts say do not run to another room to get under a desk or table if one isn’t near you.  Instead drop to the ground in an inside corner of the building and cover your head and neck with your hands and arms. 
• Know where and how to shut off electricity, gas and water at main switches and valves following an earthquake. Check with your local utilities office for instructions.
• Create a family evacuation plan and prepare an emergency survival kit with at least three days of non-perishable food and water – two weeks is ideal. Include first aid supplies, a weather radio, batteries, clothing, blankets, medicine, insurance copies, and basic tools.

For more information about disaster preparedness and Property & Casualty Insurance, visit NW Insurance Council or call NW Insurance Council at (800) 664-4942.