As the fun and sun of summer arrive, so does the greater risk of several natural disasters. Earthquakes can strike anytime, and floods, wildfires, hurricanes, and tornadoes are more common in warmer months.
There are three important steps you can take to limit the effect natural disasters have on your life and property and to speed recovery.
For additional checklists and preparation ideas, see Preparing for Natural Disasters and Holiday Risks.
Planning
- Always have several escape routes mapped out. Each family member should know where to meet, who to call for help, and how to report their safety. Post your family safety plan in a central location and review escape routes and emergency contact numbers every six months.
- If possible, store irreplaceable items and documents — birth, marriage, death and divorce certificates; passports; deeds; social security cards; expensive jewelry; and heirlooms — in a safety deposit box during high‑risk seasons. You can also place video or photo documentation, serial number lists, appraisals, and receipts in the box.
- Scan photos to your computer and back them up using an online storage service or burn a copy to a CD or USB drive to keep in your safety deposit box.
- Keep an emergency overnight bag ready for every person and pet. Always have a credit card, emergency cash, and personal identification available during high‑risk seasons.
As far as disaster‑specific planning goes, consider these key points for common hazards.
Flood planning
Many people live in possible flood areas without realizing it. Areas recently burned by wildfire, downstream from a dam, or near construction can have increased flood risk.
Contact your local building authority and your insurance agent to assess flood risk. Basements are often excluded from typical flood policies, so plan to move valuables to upper levels if needed.
Hurricane planning
Hurricane paths and storm remnants are unpredictable, so remain alert during the season. Flood planning applies to hurricanes as well.
Keep nails and plywood ready to board windows before evacuation, and always follow evacuation orders from local authorities.
Wildfire planning
Wildfires can begin unnoticed and spread quickly. An effective evacuation plan is vital when fires are nearby.
If you have time before evacuation, consider turning off gas and propane, wetting roofs and shrubs, moving flammable furniture to interior rooms, and relocating large valuables to the safest available area.
Tornado planning
Leaving your home during a tornado warning is usually not wise. Everyone should know the designated shelter location in the house, ideally a basement or an interior room without windows.
Keep your emergency kit and important phone numbers in that room.
Earthquake planning
Use the same sheltering guidance as for tornadoes: interior spaces or basements are best. Consider keeping an emergency kit in your car and at work, and verify that your child’s school has a plan.
Prevention
Aside from relocating, there is little you can do to stop many natural disasters. Wildfires are an exception: careful behavior with open flames, chimney maintenance, and not discarding cigarettes outdoors reduce personal risk.
Create a defensible space around your home to reduce wildfire risk; some insurers inspect properties for defensible space before issuing or renewing policies. Local agricultural organizations, the American Red Cross, and FEMA offer guidance on defensible landscaping and water diversions to limit flood damage.
Insurance
Make sure your insurance provides the protection you expect. A standard homeowners policy has important gaps.
For example, damage from earth movement like a falling boulder usually needs earthquake insurance, and flood damage (including many flash floods) requires a separate flood policy. Flood coverage typically has a 30‑day waiting period before it becomes effective, and basements may still be excluded.
Business owners and others should review disaster impacts specific to operations and recovery; see Impact of Natural Disasters on Businesses for related considerations.
If you have questions about what coverage you need, talk to your agent.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I pack in an emergency overnight bag?
Include water, nonperishable food, a flashlight, batteries, a first‑aid kit, medications, copies of important documents, spare keys, cash, and basic toiletries.
How long before flood insurance takes effect?
Most flood policies have a standard waiting period (commonly 30 days) before coverage begins, so buy coverage early if you are at risk.
Does a homeowners policy cover flood or earthquake damage?
Typically not; flood and earthquake losses are usually covered by separate policies or endorsements, so review your policy details with your insurer.
How can I protect pets during a disaster?
Have a pet emergency kit with food, water, leashes, carriers, vaccination records, and any medications; include pets in your evacuation plans.