How to prepare for disaster during Disaster Preparedness Month
CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. (KBSI) – September is Disaster Preparedness Month. The Missouri Department of Commerce and Insurance wants people to have a set plan in place for the next disaster.
With recent flooding in St. Louis and the continual wildfires happening in California, many are advised to prepare for any natural disaster that could happen.
For Missouri, flooding, snowstorms, and strong winds may occur for the upcoming seasons.
Lori Croy with the Missouri Department of Commerce and Insurance explains to keep these safety tips in mind when preparing for a potential disaster.
“One of the things that is important to do is to have a conversation with your family, first of all. So that everybody knows what the plan is going to be,” explains Croy. “You have belongings and knowing exactly what you have and having an inventory of those items so that you’re prepared to make an insurance claim.”
Croy strongly advises that people check in annually with their insurance including property, home, and liability insurance.
“I think something that’s really important for people to do is to do in annual review of any insurance policies that they may have,” continued Croy.
Croy also mentions getting earthquake and flood insurance for southeast Missouri residents which is not included for a normal homeowners insurance policy.
Keeping a light weighted emergency kit with essential items is also recommended.
According to Ready.gov everyone should keep these items in their kit:
- One gallon water
- Non-perishable food items
- Battery radio
- Flashlight
- First aid kit
- Extra batteries
- Whistle
- Dust mask
- Duct tape
- Moist Towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties
- Wrench
- Manual can opener
- Local maps
- And a cell phone with chargers
Other items may be included based on your individual needs.
