Disaster Tips

Disaster Tips

Survival Kit
When preparing for a disaster, be sure to make a survival kit that includes
  * Canned or other non-perishable food
  * Non-electric can opener
  * First aid kit and manual
  * Portable radio and/or television
  * Flashlights
  * Extra batteries
  * Water in non-breakable containers
  * Prescription medicines as needed
  * Extra clothing and blankets
  * Emergency cash and credit cards
  * A copy of your Travelers insurance policy
  * An updated inventory of your personal property and important documents

Hurricane
Before
  * Understand the difference between a hurricane watch and a hurricane warning. A hurricane watch means that a hurricane may occur within the next 24 to 36 hours. A hurricane warning means that a hurricane will probably strike your area within the next 24 hours.
  * Prepare a survival kit.
  * Plan your evacuation route in advance of the storm.
  * Close storm shutters and board up all windows.
  * Stock up on drinking water and non-perishable goods.
  * Have a supply of batteries and be sure you have flashlights and a portable radio in good working condition.
  * Review how to shut off utilities in an emergency with all family members.
  * Secure all outdoor objects or move them inside.
  * Secure your boat or move it to a safer place.
  * Fuel your car in case you must leave immediately.

During
  * Listen to the radio for important storm information and instructions.
  * If at home, stay inside and away from all windows, skylights and glass doors. Do not go outside, even if the weather appears to have calmed. The "eye" of the storm can pass quickly, leaving you outside when strong winds resume.
  * If you must evacuate, leave as soon as possible and be sure to tell someone outside of the storm area where you will be.

After
  * Stay tuned to the radio or television. If you have had to evacuate, return home only after authorities advise it is safe to do so.
  * Avoid downed power lines.
  * Beware and check for gas leaks or electrical system damage.
  * Make temporary repairs as necessary.
  * Promptly report the loss to Travelers using the toll-free claim reporting number.

Flood
Before
  * Learn the flood warning signs and alert signals of your community.
  * Collect emergency building materials if you live in a frequently flooded area: plywood, plastic sheeting, lumber, nails, shovels and sandbags.
  * Prepare a survival kit.
  * Plan and practice an evacuation route. Establish a meeting place should your family get separated.
  * Review how to shut off utilities in an emergency with all family members.
  * Check your insurance policy. Ask your Travelers agent or call a claim representative about flood insurance. Homeowners policies do not usually cover flood damage.

During
  * Listen to a battery operated radio or television for the latest storm information. If advised to evacuate, do so immediately.
  * Move to high ground, avoid rising waters and do not walk or drive through any floodwaters.
  * Stay away from downed power lines and electrical wires.

After
  * Listen to the radio and do not return home until authorities indicate it is safe to do so.
  * Be watchful of snakes that may have found their way into your home.
  * Throw away all food that has come in contact with floodwaters.
  * If your basement has flooded, pump out the water gradually. Remove about 1/3 per day to avoid structural damage.
  * Promptly report the loss to Travelers using the toll-free claim reporting number.

Tornado
Before
  * Learn the warning signs and alert signals of your community.
  * Understand the difference between a tornado watch and a tornado warning. A watch means that tornadoes may develop, while a warning means that a tornado has been sighted and you should seek shelter immediately.
  * Prepare a survival kit.
  * Conduct drills with your family. Designate an area of your home as a shelter and practice what the plan would be should a tornado occur.
  * Move cars and other outside objects inside the garage.

During
At home:
  * Seek shelter away from windows in the center of the room. Basements and storm cellars are the best havens, but if there is no basement, take cover in a bathroom, closet, or under a sturdy piece of furniture.
At work or school:
  * Go to the basement or an inside hallway at the lowest level. Keep away from large, open areas such as auditoriums, cafeterias and gymnasiums. Lie low and use your arms to protect the head and neck.
In a car:
  * Do not try to outrun the tornado. Stop the car, get out, and if there is no facility nearby to take shelter in, lie in a low area such as a ditch.

After
  * Keep calm. Stay in your shelter until after the storm is over.
  * Listen to the radio or television for the latest storm information.
  * Check for gas leaks or electrical system damage.
  * Watch for downed power lines when going outside.
  * Promptly report the loss to Travelers using the toll-free claim reporting number.

The above tips were provided by TRAVELERS