Are You Prepared For a Disaster?

September Represents National Preparedness Month

Are you prepared for a disaster? Recent articles online, in the newspaper and commercials on televisions remind us that disasters are just a moment away. It is easy to think that’s a good reminder, yet fail to act on our preparedness. The fact is: disasters happen. It’s best to learn the skills & be prepared.

Ready.gov does a great job at summarizing how to prepare for disasters and teaches simple skills you should have that could help you or your loved ones if a disaster strikes.

What’s Your Plan?

Discuss the following questions with your friends, family or household to determine your emergency plan.

1. How will I receive emergency alerts and warnings?
2. What is my shelter plan?
3. What is my evacuation route?
4. What is my family/household communication plan?

After determining your plan, practice it!

What Life Saving Skills Do You Have?

There are a wide variety of skills you should have that can save a life. Here are a few to target.

• Learn first aid & CPR.
• Own a fire extinguisher, know where it’s located & most importantly, understand how to use it.
• Know how to shut off your water, electricity & natural gas.

Do You Understand Your Insurance Coverage?

Yes, having insurance is your first step to protection, but do you know exactly what you are covered for? Did you know flood damage to a home is the most common disaster a household can face? If your home floods, are you covered? If you do not understand the details of your insurance coverage, call our office!

Are You Saving For an Emergency?

We all know the concept of saving for a rainy day, but the question is, are you doing it?

• Have a savings account and contribute to it monthly if possible.
• Consider owning a safe in your home & keeping cash in it. During a disaster, ATM’s or credit cards may not work.
• Store all important personal, household & medical information in your safe (or a place you’ll remember).

Examples:

• passport or photo ID
• birth certificate
• social security cards,
• marriage or divorce license
• military ID & military discharge record
• pet ID tags
• pet microchip info & proof of pet ownership
• insurance policies
• lease or rental agreement
• mortgage or real estate deeds of trust
• immunization records
• medication list or other medical information a physician may need

If you want a detailed document of everything you would need to prepare for a disaster or emergency, print this form out & follow the checklist.

Don’t wait until it’s too late. Learn the skills & know what to do before a disaster strikes.

If you have questions about your insurance coverage or want a quote for flood insurance, contact Alaska Service Agency. Our agents will shop to find the best insurance for your specific needs.