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Washington Insurance Council Consumer Alert Contact:
Karl Newman, Executive
Director Washington Insurance Council Satsop quake is a reminder to prepareSEATTLE – Sunday’s 5.0-magnitude Satsop earthquake, less than 3 ˝ months after the big Nisqually quake, is a reminder to Western Washington residents to be sure they’ve followed through on their plans to prepare for future earthquakes. “Many people researched earthquake preparations after the Nisqually quake, but didn’t actually spend the time and money to turn their good intentions into reality,” said Karl Newman, executive director of the Washington Insurance Council. “The Satsop quake should remind us that earthquakes will continue to happen in this area. With the right advance preparations, you can do a lot to reduce or eliminate damage to your home and belongings.” The Washington Insurance Council offers these tips for homeowners and renters to help protect their homes and save their families lives next time things begin to shake: w Gather and store emergency water, non-perishable food and first aid supplies w Know where and how to shut off electricity, gas and water at main switches and valves. Check with your local utilities offices for instructions w Be sure to have a flashlight, extra batteries and a battery-powered radio on hand in case power is cut off w Place large and heavy objects on lower shelves. Securely fasten shelves to walls. Brace or anchor high or top-heavy objects w Strap your water heater to an adjacent wall frame w Sketch a floor plan of your home and identify safe places to seek during a quake. Standard homeowners insurance policies normally do not cover earthquake damage. A separate earthquake insurance policy or endorsement is needed. Call your company or agent to find out how to obtain earthquake insurance. For free a brochure on how to protect yourself and property from an earthquake, contact the Washington Insurance Council at (206) 624-3330. |
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