Tuesday, July 01, 2008
Each year, hundreds of tornadoes with wind speeds as high as 300 mph touch down in the United States. While April is the most common month for tornadoes to occur, this year some states experienced tornado activity as early as January.
Standard property policies cover wind damage caused by tornadoes Tornado damage to automobiles is covered under the physical damage "other than collision" coverage section of the auto policy.
Helpful Tips....
Before a tornado occurs, take these certain actions:
- Keep a weather catastrophe kit handy containing a battery powered radio, drinking water, flashlights and a first-aid kit as the bare essentials.
- Have a cell phone or other means of portable communication.
- Take a complete inventory of your possessions. Visit www.knowyourstuff.org, for a free software program that makes keeping your inventory up-to-date simple and offers an option for storing that information off-site.
- Have an evacuation and contact plan.
If a tornado warning is issued for your area:
- Move vehicles inside to protect them from potential hail
- Move lawn furniture and outside equipment inside
- Take a position of protection inside your home or business
- If you are in a mobile home, leave and go to a nearby, safe shelter.
- If in a vehicle, get to safe shelter. If no shelter exists lie flat in a low spot.
After a tornado causes damage to your insured property:
- Make sure everyone is safe, and summon emergency help if needed.
- Be prepared to provide an inventory of your damaged property.
- If it is safe, you may want to take photos of the damaged property to speed along the claim process.
- If possible, protect undamaged and repairable property. Board up broken windows and cover leaking roofs, but only if it is reasonably safe to do so and you are physically able.