Washington Insurance Council

                  Consumer Alert

Contact: Karl Newman, Executive Director      
Release Date: 6/28/2001

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

Earthquakes are a reminder to prepare

SEATTLE – More than 20 small earthquakes have shaken the Spokane area since Monday’s 3.4 and 3.2 magnitude earthquakes rocked the region, according to University of Washington seismologists.  The quakes, less than 3 ½ months after the big Nisqually quake in the Puget Sound area, are a reminder to Eastern Washington residents that earthquakes aren’t just a west of the mountains problem.  The Washington Insurance Council encourages everyone to prepare for future earthquakes.  

“Earthquakes can be very destructive,” said Karl Newman, executive director of the Washington Insurance Council.  “With the right advance preparations, you can do a lot to reduce or eliminate damage to your home and belongings.”

“It’s also important to know that most homeowners insurance policies do not cover earthquake damage,” Newman emphasized.  A separate earthquake insurance policy or endorsement is needed.

The Washington Insurance Council offers these tips for homeowners and renters to help protect their homes and 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.

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 (800) 664-4942

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

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