I can still remember it – clear as day. I was sitting in my middle school chemistry class when all of a sudden the walls and everything on the desks started shaking. The old laminate tiles on the floor were rolling. And while it was probably only 30 seconds, it felt like a terrifying eternity!
Earthquakes are no laughing matter, and fortunately for us here in Washington we haven’t had any large ones recently like those we’ve seen in other states and countries. But did you see the article that went viral last month warning us all that ‘The Big One‘ is way overdue?
It sure got me thinking – earthquakes are unexpected. And when they hit, we need to be prepared.
Villa Insurance Group has gathered some great tips to help you and your family stay safe should an earthquake occur. While some of these may seem logical, they serve as a good reminder. Help us spread the word to your family and friends:
- Anchor your large appliances and items within your home. For example: televisions, book shelves, water heaters, tall filing cabinets.
- Know the safest and least safe areas in your home. The Red Cross provides more tips on where to seek shelter during a quake.
- Practice “drop, cover, and hold” and teach it early to your kids.
- Keep your emergency household supplies and emergency preparedness kit stocked and readied. Include copies of your insurance documents in your kit. If you’re not sure what you should have in an emergency kit, check this out.
- Make a plan – determine how your family will reconnect if all are at different locations. Mobile and landlines may be down so be sure to take that into account. Text messages or communication through an out-of-area relative have a greater chance of success than local phone calls.
Now that you’re thinking about it…does your insurance cover earthquake damage? Unfortunately, standard homeowners and renters insurance do not cover earthquake damage and require a separate policy. The good news is that most cars and other vehicles are covered for earthquake damage under the optional comprehensive portion of your auto insurance policy.
As you think about this scenario, perhaps asking these questions will help you decide whether or not you should add earthquake damage to your policy as part of your earthquake preparedness:
- Can I afford the cost of rebuilding or repairing my home if it was damaged as the result of an earthquake?
- Can I afford to replace my personal belongings if they are damaged in an earthquake?
- Can I pay for temporary housing and other expenses if an earthquake causes structural damage to my home?
If the answer is no, you may consider giving our friends at Villa Insurance Group a call. They’d be happy to walk you through the different coverage options and provide a no obligation quote. Who knows – they may even be able to find you the same quality coverage you’re receiving now but with the added earthquake coverage, for less! Just don’t wait until it’s too late. Here’s the number: 888-708-4552 or visit them online at www.villainsurancegroup.com.
