Conversation Before
The Crisis – And After
By Nancy R. Larson, Attorney
In the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, thousands of
Americans are facing the task of regrouping, and in many cases, starting
over. The destruction of homes and
businesses has resulted in the loss of billions of dollars, but the loss of
life and culture is priceless. Reaching
out to others at a time of emergency might just save someone’s life. Being prepared may save your own life.
How do you
best protect yourself, your loved ones and your assets from a natural
disaster? The National Association of
Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) offers these suggestions advising steps to take
after a major storm to make sure that people and their property are protected:
·
Buy the
materials you need to secure your property and minimize your losses. Cover your windows with shutters or plywood
and move your vehicles into a garage or carport whenever possible.
·
If your home is
damaged or is currently awaiting repairs, take steps to protect your home from further
damage and document the state of your home with photos or video.
·
Beware of downed
power lines, especially near water, to avoid risk of electrocution.
·
When returning
home, do not drive through flooded areas or through road barriers – they are
there for your safety.
·
If your house is
damaged, shut electricity off at the breakers.
Keep power off until an electrician has inspected your system for
safety.
·
Immediately
report property damage or additional damage to your insurance agent or company.
·
If you have
difficulty reaching your insurance company, contact your state insurance
department’s consumer hotline for assistance.
Links to all state insurance departments can be found on http://www.naic.org.
·
Do not have permanent
repairs made until your insurance company has inspected the property and you
have reached an agreement on the cost of repairs.
·
Beware of
fly-by-night repair businesses. Hire
licensed and reputable service and repair people. Get references and use local businesses, when
possible.
·
Take precautions
if the damage requires you to leave your home.
Let your agent or insurance company know of your temporary forwarding
address and phone number.
Before a natural disaster strikes, review your
insurance to make sure you have adequate coverage on your home, possessions and
life. The National Oceanic and
Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) suggests the
following:
1.
Check Your Homeowner’s Insurance Policy. Get your
insurance policy out and see what kind of coverage you have. Most people don’t know what their policies
cover, so now is the time to get it out and read it. The first thing you need to check is your
overall insurance limits. If you’ve made
improvements to your home, make sure that your policy covers the amount that
your home is worth now. Call your
insurance agent, because some improvements, like roof replacement or the
addition of safety glass could entitle you to premium discounts.
2.
What is NOT Covered in Your Policy. One of the
biggest concerns in the wake of a natural disaster is flooding, which may not
be covered under your homeowner’s insurance.
Flood insurance is administered through the federal government, and you
should consult with your insurance agent.
3.
Take Stock. Prepare a detailed inventory list of all
personal belongings and household contents.
Keep this inventory along with your homeowner’s insurance policy in a
place that will not be susceptible to water, such as a watertight safe or safe
deposit box. This inventory will serve
as a reminder and as proof to your insurance company of your belongings. You can also take pictures of your belongings
to further provide proof in the event of a loss.
4.
More Storm Tips.
·
Stock your
pantry. Stock up on food, water,
batteries, and any other necessities you might need in the event of a natural
disaster.
·
Have an
evacuation plan. In the event of a
disaster, your family should have a place to go if your home is in danger.
·
Make sure you
have your insurance agent’s contact information on hand to call immediately
following the disaster.
·
Get your camera
ready. It is a good idea to take
pictures of your damaged property as soon as possible. This will help expedite the claims process so
it goes faster.
·
Alert emergency
services if thee is someone in your household with special needs. They will be able to help you plan for
evacuation for those individuals.
·
Have your
doctor’s contact information handy if evacuation becomes necessary, and take
with you all medications and medical information in case medical attention is
required.
In your emergency plan, do not forget to secure your
important documents from water damage.
These documents should include your powers of attorney for health and
finances as well as your Last Will and Testament and trust, if you have
one. Count your blessings today and make
the day count.
Nancy R. Larson is an attorney with offices in