There are many types of disasters, including floods, earthquakes, and tornadoes. Preparation for each varies, but two things they have in common are the need for foresight and up-to-date homeowners insurance. If you are prepping for a natural disaster, the information below should help you get ready.

What You Should Know About Disaster Prep

Tornadoes

Choose a room in your house where your family will be safe from flying glass, preferably a basement or storm cellar. If those are not available, choose an interior room without windows on the ground floor. Purchase an NOAA® weather radio so you can monitor weather notices, and sign up to receive text notifications for tornado watches and warnings. You should also create an emergency kit with snacks, water, games to occupy the kids, and basic first aid materials. 

Floods

If you live in a floodplain, it makes sense to prepare for this type of emergency. Ask local authorities to help you understand which areas in your community are most prone to trouble and where the best evacuation routes are. Keep emergency phone numbers on hand. You should also secure fuels, chemicals, and other dangerous substances. Make sure to move rugs and furniture to upper stories, and place important documents, medical supplies, and treasured photos in watertight bags. Your homeowners insurance policy likely excludes flood coverage, so ask an agent about purchasing it separately.

Earthquakes

Most earthquake damage arises from structural weaknesses in a home. These include unbraced foundations, weak crawlspace walls, and unreinforced foundations. If you know of weaknesses in your home, have them corrected as soon as possible. Scout your home and identify the safest place to "drop and cover" where you will be free from dangerous objects—bookshelves, glassware, and wall art—toppling on you.

Most homeowners insurance policies exclude coverage of damage due to floods, earthquakes, and other disasters, but you can purchase these separately through Daniel Oliver Insurance Agency, an experienced agent in Edina, MN. This agent has been serving clients in and around Hennepin County as a Farmers® agent for more than 30 years. In addition to homeowners insurance, he can also help you strengthen your life and car insurance coverage. Call (952) 925-4454 or visit their website to request a quote.