(Photographer: Charles Mostoller/Bloomberg) Below are checklists that can be given to anyone in an area at risk of severe disasters. (Photographer: Charles Mostoller/Bloomberg)

Every year, insurance departments recommend the ways consumers can prepare for various disasters — they may suggest purchasing flood insurance in susceptible areas or offer ways to mitigate fire hazards, in addition to other tips. This year is different; the presence of COVID-19 makes any evacuation more complicated than normal.

It will be harder to find places to evacuate to as shelters will reach capacity quicker due to distancing guidelines. In Michigan, those setting up shelters for individuals displaced by floods are recommending people use hand sanitizer every two hours and wipe down surfaces with disinfectant. 

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Christine G. Barlow, CPCU

Christine G. Barlow, CPCU, is Executive Editor of FC&S Expert Coverage Interpretation, a division of National Underwriter Company and ALM. Christine has over thirty years’ experience in the insurance industry, beginning as a claims adjuster then working as an underwriter and underwriting supervisor handling personal lines. Christine regularly presents and moderates webinars on a variety of topics and is an experienced presenter.  

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