Did you know:
- Since 1900, earthquakes have occurred in 39
states and caused damage in all 50.
- Between 400 and 500 earthquakes are reported in
the United States in a typical year.
- Of the 10 most costly U.S. earthquakes, nine
occurred in California. But major
fault lines exist in the Midwest and the East as
well.
Before an Earthquake:
- Make a written or videotaped inventory of
household possessions/property and store in a
safe place with insurance policies, documents and
other valuables.
- Choose a safe place in every room where nothing
can fall on you.
- Practice "Drop, Cover and Hold On" at
least twice a year.
- Designate an out-of-town family contact.
- Eliminate predictable hazards by bolting tall
furniture and water heater to wall studs and
installing strong latches on cupboards.
- Take a first aid class from your local Red Cross
chapter.
- Assemble a disaster supplies kit including:
battery-powered radio, flashlight, extra
batteries, at least three gallons of water per
person, canned food, can opener, first aid kit,
essential medications, sturdy shoes, work gloves,
sanitation supplies, fire extinguisher and tools
and instructions to shut off utilities.
- Keep essentials by your bedside.
After an Earthquake:
- Call your independent insurance agent as soon as
possible.
- Make temporary repairs to prevent further damage.
- Delay permanent repairs until your insurer
approves reimbursement.
- Get any necessary construction permits from your
community.
- Keep all receipts.
- Prepare an inventory of all damaged or destroyed
personal property.
- Take photos of damaged areas.
- Save remnants of damaged or destroyed property
for your insurance company adjuster.
- Meet with your adjuster first, before signing
anything with contractors, lawyers or public
adjusters.
Back to Disaster
Tips
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Information provided
courtesy of Independent Insurance Agents of America
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