Get ready for disasters during National Preparedness Month in September

Now is the perfect time to review policies and get your insurance clients ready for an emergency.

National Preparedness Month, recognized each September and sponsored by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), provides an opportunity for insurance professionals to remind clients that we all must prepare ourselves and our families now and throughout the year for emergencies in our homes, businesses, schools and communities.

National Preparedness Month 2018 will focus on planning, with an overarching theme of: Disasters Happen. Prepare Now. Learn How.

Review coverage with clients

Now is a great time to check in with your clients to review their insurance policies and coverage for the hazards they may faces, such as a flood, earthquakes and tornadoes. In fact, the theme for the week of September 16-22, 2018, is “Check Your Insurance Coverage.”

FEMA resources to share:

Getting prepared

The American Red Cross urges urges everyone to make sure they are prepared for a disaster and not wait until an emergency occurs and it’s too late.

Getting prepared is easier than it sounds. The Red Cross recommends these three basic steps:

1. Create a kit.

Pack the following items in an easy-to-carry container:

2. Make a plan.

Have all members of your household help devise your emergency plan. Consider what emergencies could happen where you live; what to do if you are separated and how will you let loved ones know you are safe.

3. Be informed.

Learn what disasters are common to your area. Find out how local authorities will let you know an emergency is happening. Make sure at least one household member is trained in first aid and CPR in case help is delayed during a disaster.

You can also download the Red Cross First Aid App at redcross.org/apps to have instant access on how to handle common first aid emergencies.

Related:

Some hurricane damage can be avoided: Advice to pass on to homeowners

Changing weather patterns mean homeowners need to rethink risks

Prepare for each phase of a flood event with this checklist

Disaster proof your pocketbook in 3 steps