DELAWARE INSURANCE DEPARTMENT - BEFORE STORM TIPS

Natural disaster planning is one of the most important duties a home or business owner can perform.  Protection of life is first and foremost before, during and immediately following a disaster. It is very important that consumers take time out before a disaster strikes to be certain that insurance concerns have been addressed. The following is a list of insurance-related coverage suggestions that consumers should consider before they are faced with a disaster.

• Monitor the latest weather developments by following radio or television broadcasts and be prepared to evacuate.
• Contact your insurance company or agent and verify coverages are in place before a disaster strikes. Make sure you have wind coverage protection and flood insurance if your home or business is located in a flood plain area
• Make sure that you understand the deductible provision of your policy.
• Keep all of your insurance policies in an easily accessible location.
• If forced to evacuate, keep with you at all times your insurance records, including the name and telephone number of your insurer or insurance agent.
• Be certain you understand the claim procedures of your insurance company.
• Make sure you have insurance up to at least 80% of the value on your home to avoid penalties under any co-insurance provision of your policy.
• Keep all necessary information regarding your health coverage, including prescription information, with your insurance records in the event of an evacuation.
• Be prepared to board up your windows and doorways to protect your home or business. Pre-cut plywood or other material can be used.
• Have a suitcase packed to last each member of your family for at least two days in case you need to evacuate from your home.
• In the event of a hurricane or flood watch, be sure that your vehicle has sufficient fuel in it in order to relocate to a safe area.
• Keep available a tarp and other supplies to protect your home in case it is damaged. The policy requires the policyholder to protect the property from further damage.

• Meet with family members to discuss the dangers of fire, severe weather, flash floods, and other emergencies.
• Find the safe spots in your home and escape routes.
• Discuss what to do in the case of a power outage or personal injury.
• Know how to turn off water, gas and electricity at the main switches.
• Keep family records in a water and fire-proof container.
• Post emergency phone numbers near telephones.

• Assemble the supplies you might need in case of an evacuation, in easy-to-carry containers (such as a backpack or duffle bag).
• Supplies can include:

  • A supply of water (one gallon per person, per day).
  • A supply of non-perishable packaged or canned food (and a non-electric can opener).
  • Change of clothing, rain gear, and sturdy shoes.
  • Blankets or sleeping bags.
  • First aid kit and prescription medications.
  • Batteries, flashlight, radio.
  • Cash or credit cards.

Before a disaster occurs, take photographs or make a video of each room of your home or business and compile a set of records, old receipts, and bills - to help establish the price and age of your property. Write down brand names and model numbers of appliances and electronic equipment and date purchased. Do not forget to list items such as clothing, sports equipment, tools, china, linens, holiday decorations, business equipment, hobby materials, and all other materials associated with your home or business.

Consumers can do a number of things to reduce the cost of their property insurance. Protecting their property from possible damage before a disaster can have a major impact on insurers' willingness to continue insuring the property and can also have an impact on future prices the consumer will have to pay in the event his home or business is met by a disaster. By performing some of the following duties, consumers can make major contributions toward reducing the amount of losses occurring to their home:

• Consider adding storm shutters to the windows and doors of your home or business.
• Glue or nail down any loose shingles.
• Make certain yard items are tied down or secured. Bicycles, grills, toys, unsecured benches and any other items not tied down should be placed inside an enclosed building. These items become missiles during a tornado or hurricane.
• If you own a vehicle, do not park it under a tree if a storm is anticipated.
• Take precaution to remove any tree that has the potential of damaging your home or business during a storm.

• Take copies of important paperwork, including your insurance policy and contact information for your insurance company, with you.
• Bring phone numbers for family members with you.
• Don't forget to keep your family's safety in mind. Your own home is childproofed, but a shelter, motel or friend's house inland may not be.
• Be sure you and your family know where the exits are and how to escape in case of a fire.
• Make sure the building you stay in has working smoke alarms.
• Make sure any medicines and dangerous chemicals are out of reach.
• Bring along electric socket and outlet covers.
• Tie up mini-blind cords so they are out of your child's reach.
• Check carpets for buried dangers like pins or coins.
• Check dresser drawers and bedside tables for hazardous items.
• Be alert for any lamps or televisions that could be tipped over by a small child.
• Beware of glass items in the kitchen and bathrooms.
• Keep wastebaskets covered or out of reach.
• Make sure decks or balconies have secure railings.
• Take along a safety gate to keep small children away from stairs or areas that may be dangerous