In light of the recent disasters that have been happening both locally and on a national level, we thought it would be a good idea to share some tips on putting together a disaster recovery plan.

GETTING STARTED

The best way to get started is by gathering as much information as possible. This includes putting together contact lists and home inventory sheets.   Here are a few suggestions to help you get started on the right foot:

• Make a list of each of your insurance policy numbers and the insurance company name, and keep the information in your wallet, purse, or on your mobile device. For example, nearly all states use some form of a wallet-size auto ID card, which is required to be kept on your person or in the vehicle. It’s a good idea to have similar information with you on all your other insurance coverages.
• Record your insurance agent’s website address, and keep this information in your wallet, purse, or mobile device. After a widespread catastrophe, more and more agencies post information about claims procedures on their websites. This is especially important in cases where the agency itself has been affected and has set up temporary operations at another location. In addition, agency websites will usually post-emergency insurance claim phone numbers, etc.
• Use social media to contact your insurance agent. Many agencies use social media, such as Facebook, Twitter, etc., and these information outlets can provide vital, timely information about claims procedures and other necessary information for policyholders.

IN THE COMMUNITY

An often overlooked part of a disaster preparedness plan is finding out how your community will respond in the event of a tragedy. We recommend taking some time with the following organizations to understand their disaster response plans:

• Find out how you and your neighbors would be informed about an imminent disaster.
• Ask if evacuation routes have been established.
• Contact your city’s or town’s planning and emergency assistance organizations. Ask them for information about disaster planning.
• Contact your children’s school(s) or daycare center to learn about the emergency plans they have in place.
• If a family member is in an elder care facility, check to see what emergency procedures they will follow.
• Take a First Aid/CPR class from the American Red Cross.
• If you have pets, have a contingency plan in place. Many emergency shelters won’t accept them.

We hope the information above will help you prepare for any disaster. If you have any further questions or would like to find out more, please don’t hesitate to contact our office.