EarthQuake! Are You Prepared?

E a R t H Q u A k E !

If you live in California, you understand they are a part of our everyday lives.   

For many of us, California is our home, and earthquakes are the price we pay to live in such a beautiful place. We don’t get freezing cold winters here, but we do have to put up with a little shaking once in a while. And the fact is, we all know it’s not a matter of “IF”, but “WHEN” the next big earthquake will strike!

There are many things that you can do to prepare for the inevitable. The Red Cross (link) recommends that the first thing that you should do is prepare an “Earthquake Kit” of non-perishable foods, water, blankets and first aid supplies.  It’s also vitally important for your family to have an “Emergency Plan” (link) of where you are going to meet, and who is going to be responsible for what.

In addition, there are several things you can do around your house to help mitigate any damages:

• Secure heavy items of furniture to the studs in the walls using flexible nylon straps.
• Secure TVs and other electronics using flexible nylon straps.
• Secure breakables and collectibles with quake putty, wax or museum gel.
• Store emergency tools, including gas shut-off wrench and safety light sticks in a place you can easily access.
• Learn how to turn off gas, water and electricity in case the lines are damaged.
• Know the safe spots in every room - under sturdy tables, desks or against inside walls, and know the danger spots - windows, mirrors, hanging objects, fireplaces, tall furniture.
• Secure water heaters with two-strap kits.

Another important item to consider when contemplating Earthquake Preparedness is reviewing your insurance. Because earthquake insurance has a reputation of being expensive, many homeowners have opted not to purchase the coverage. Living in California, this may not be the smartest idea!

You may not be aware, the price of earthquake insurance is always changing, and you might find the coverage to be much more affordable today than it was in the past. We understand deductibles are a serious issue.  Most policies issue deductibles that are 15% of the “Total Insured Values”.

Example: If you are insuring your home for, let’s say, $300,000, your contents for $150,000, and your Loss of Use for $200,000. You are then insuring a total of $650,000 of “Values.” 15% of $650,000 is almost $100,000.

What does that mean? It means you would be responsible for a little under $100,000 of the claim, and while this may seem like a large amount to handle, think of it this way…  if your house is totally destroyed, it would be a small amount to get your entire life back and on track again.

At United Agencies, we understand the importance of the best coverage for the lowest prices and premiums available. Ask a United Agencies representative for a free quote today! Our experts are standing by ready to help.