Washington Insurance Council

                  Consumer Alert

Contact: Karl Newman, Executive Director      
Release Date: 2/28/2001

Washington Insurance Council    
Phone: (206) 624-3330
Fax: (206) 624-1975
karl.newman@wa-ic.org

EARTHQUAKE: What to do now

SEATTLE – With the damage and panic caused by this morning’s sudden 6.4-magnitude earthquake, it’s important to know what to do next.

The Washington Insurance Council offers these tips for homeowners and renters to help protect their homes and families’ lives immediately after today’s earthquake:

·         Be alert for aftershocks

·         Wear shoes to protect your feet from broken glass or other sharp objects

·         If you are calling to ensure that loved ones are safe, make calls brief to help keep phone lines open

·         Check gas lines, plumbing and power lines for damage

·         Turn off damaged utilities

·         Do not touch downed power lines

·         Examine your foundations, chimneys, porches, decks and walls for damage

·         Locate emergency supplies

·         Listen for advisories on the radio

Standard homeowners insurance policies normally do not cover earthquake damage.  A separate earthquake insurance policy or endorsement is needed.  Most insurance companies will not issue earthquake policies during or immediately after an earthquake.  Call your company or agent to find out how to obtain earthquake insurance. 

For a free brochure on how to protect yourself and your property from an earthquake, contact the Washington Insurance Council at (206) 624-3330 or 1-800-664-4942.

The Washington Insurance Council is a nonprofit, consumer education organization funded by member insurance companies.

###