Make a plan before natural disasters make one for you
Natural disasters that devastated communities across the United States and its territories in 2017 won’t be forgotten soon. An estimated $306 billion in losses from 10 hurricanes, tornadoes that swept across the South, Western wildfires and other events made 2017 the most expensive year for natural disasters.
Hurricane Irma, the fifth costliest hurricane in
U.S. history, destroyed homes and businesses across the full length of Florida. Nearly 777,000 survivors received more than $1 billion in federal assistance.
We know that in Florida, the importance of preparedness for families, businesses and communities can’t be overstated. Steps like building an emergency kit or making sure that your business has a plan for operations in the event of a disaster may seem minor, but they can make all the difference when disaster strikes. Preparedness is important across all levels.
A majority of Americans are not prepared for disasters. In 2016 fewer than half – 45 percent – reported having a household emergency plan. A 2017 survey by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and MetLife of 1,000 owners or operators of small companies found that nearly two-thirds have no plans to deal with a disaster or severe weather that could disrupt their businesses.
September is designated as National Preparedness Month, a reminder that we all must take action to prepare, now and throughout the year.
Here are some ways you can be better prepared:
■ Make and practice your family’s preparedness plan so every member knows how to reconnect and reunite when an emergency strikes.
■ Learn life safety skills. Neighbors and coworkers are often the first to help after a disaster strikes. Train to be a citizen responder through CPR and first aid training or learn how to help until help arrives.
■ Check your insurance coverage. Most homeowner’s insurance policies do not cover damage or losses from flooding, earthquakes, or high winds in hurricane-prone areas. If you’re not insured against those extra hazards, talk to your insurance agent.
■ Save for an emergency. Anticipate initial out-ofpocket expenses for lodging, food, gas, and more. A 2016 survey by the Federal Reserve revealed that 44 percent of Americans indicated they would not have enough money to cover a $400 emergency expense. WES MAUL AND GRACIA SZCZECH,