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Disaster Preparedness
If we’ve learned anything in recent years, it’s the importance of disaster preparedness. The 2005 hurricane season was the worst on record according to the Insurance Information Institute (I.I.I.), with 14 hurricanes causing $46 billion in insured losses and three million claims, all record highs.
Katrina was the most costly and one of the deadliest hurricanes in U.S. history. According to preliminary estimates from ISO, insurers will pay out $34.4 billion in claims to victims of the storm. About one thousand people died as a result of Katrina. Other hurricanes that made landfall last year in the United States include Dennis, Rita and Wilma, each causing billions of dollars in insured losses.
Before a Disaster
As we’ve learned from the past, it’s important to be prepared before a severe storm strikes. Contact your local emergency management office or American Red Cross chapter and ask for the community disaster preparedness plan. This plan should include information on the safest evacuation routes and nearby shelters.
Prepare a kit of disaster supplies including:
- Flashlights
- A portable, battery-operated radio
- Extra batteries
- First aid kit
- Emergency food and water
- Non-electric can opener
- Essential medicines
- Infant formula, diapers
- Cash and credit cards
- Personal hygiene items
- Sturdy shoes
- A waterproof container for important documents
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security suggests additional items for your emergency supply kit on their web site www.ready.gov.
Devise a plan and make arrangements for your pets. Pets may not be allowed into emergency shelters for health and space reasons. Contact your local animal shelters.
Discuss with family members how you will respond after a natural disaster. Teach everyone how and when to turn off the gas, electricity and water.
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