Earthquake Preparedness

Today Japan was shaken yet again by another aftershock, this one measuring at 7.1 on the Richter scale. As that country continues to recover from one of the most disastrous tragedies of our time, I wanted to make sure we did our part here in California, especially because of our earthquake risks, to remind you of a few very important things to consider for you & your family's safety and welfare.
First, consider getting earthquake insurance on your home. Homeowner insurance policies do not cover damage caused by earthquakes. You must get coverage separately. Many companies offer earthquake insurance at the time of your policy purchase or at the renewal. The cost for earthquake insurance can vary, however the benefits can be substantial if an earthquake does hit and your home is damaged.

The Emergency Survival Program published a list of 7 steps to earthquake safety. Those steps are:

PREPARE
Step 1: Secure it now!

Step 2: Make a plan

Step 3: Make disaster kits

Step 4: Is your place safe?

PROTECT
Step 5: DROP, COVER, and HOLD ON!

RECOVER
Step 6: Check it out!

Step 7: Communicate and recover!

If you'd like a copy, please email me at mmcdonald@allstate.com and I will gladly forward a copy to you.

If you'd like to make a donation to the Red Cross relief efforts in Japan, click here.