Preparing for an Earthquake

It\’s true that an earthquake could not be prevented from happening, but it is always good to be ready in the event that this disaster strikes. Having an emergency plan of action for any kind of disaster, much less an earthquake is not only sound thinking, but when disaster hits, family members know exactly what to do.

Most people do not often think about how well-prepared they are for an emergency, but it really is something that you should consider for your family\’s safety as well as your own. It is everybody\’s wish to have peace of mind and this could be attained if you are equipped against any disaster regardless of whether or not you utilize skills or supplies for emergency.

You can start with a kit containing toiletries, utensils, water, food, matches, and other necessary items that you can easily carry in case of emergency. Don\’t forget to include necessary medications. Your kit should include everything you need for at least three days. You need to be sure that those important items are included such as flashlights, blankets, gloves, clothing and other for you to feel comfortable during emergency cases. Things that give you warmth, safe water, and food are essential to survive, therefore these items should be on the top of the list when you are preparing kits for disaster and other emergencies.

Make an assessment of what you need and ensure that the kit for emergency has all the things that you need to survive for 72 hours (3 days) without other supplies to be added. Consider how a disaster may affect your needs; include the supplies to deal with medical emergencies. Make sure that you will bring vital documents with you such as family ID\’s and policies of any insurance that you obtained.

All of these items should be stored in a sturdy waterproof container somewhere where they should be accessible after an emergency.

Coverage of Earthquake Insurance

Earthquake insurance covers loss or damage caused by the tremor or shaking from an earthquake. Be aware that any damage or loss triggered by snowslides, landslides or other types of movement of the earth will not be covered by this kind of insurance. The same rules are also applied for those losses incurred due to big waves or tsunamis, in spite of the reality that these happenings are because of the earthquake.

If you own a house, your earthquake insurance will typically cover loss or damage to your building and your personal property. In case you can\’t stay in your home because it is under repair, the amount that you will spend as additional living costs will also be covered.

If you are an owner of a condo unit, the structure has to be insured by the condominium company. To avail of the coverage of your additional living expenditure and personal belongings, make sure that earthquake insurance is included in your individual condominium policy. It may also cover assessments made against you because of a shortfall in your condo corporation\’s insurance.

Traditional home insurance policies do not cover loss or damage caused by earthquakes; instead, you must specifically request that earthquake insurance be added to your policy. It is also worthy to remember that earthquake insurance usually has limitations of deductible and coverage.

For more detailed information, visit Kelowna Home Insurance. Or stop by our Condo Insurance in BC resource page for related topics and money saving ideas.

Preparing for an Earthquake