Preparation for climate change: Protect your property and family from disasters.

Climate change has brought about an increase in the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events in the United States. From devastating wildfires to torrential rains causing floods, the reality is that no region is exempt from these risks. In fact, in 2023, the country suffered insured losses amounting to nearly $80 billion due to 89 natural disasters. Therefore, it is crucial for citizens to begin preparing financially to face the consequences of these disasters. Preparation starts with creating an emergency kit, not only physical but also administrative. Loretta Worters, spokesperson for the Insurance Information Institute, emphasizes the importance of having all essential documents in an accessible location. This can be decisive for obtaining insurance compensation quickly after a devastating event. It is advisable to have a travel bag containing these important documents, including property records and insurance policies. Additionally, visual documentation is essential. Conducting a photographic or video inventory of household belongings can significantly facilitate the claims process after a disaster. These images should be stored in the cloud to ensure their availability, even if the home is damaged. Worters also advises including photographs of pets to aid in their recovery in case they become separated during the crisis. Insurance policies need to be reviewed periodically to ensure they adequately cover current risks. While many homeowners are protected against certain disasters, it is important to highlight that standard policies typically do not cover flood damage. For those living in vulnerable areas, it is crucial to explore flood insurance options, which can be consulted at resources like floodsmart.gov. Regarding personal property coverage, most policies only insure a percentage of the home’s value, meaning homeowners may not be fully protected. Worters warns that for every $100,000 of home coverage, personal property protection could be between $50,000 and $70,000, which is not always sufficient to replace all lost items. In addition to property documents and insurance policies, it is vital to have an emergency contact list that includes policy numbers, banking information, and contact details for veterinarians for pets. This not only helps maintain organization during critical times but also ensures that the entire family, including pets, is covered in evacuation situations. Some key documents that should be included in the emergency kit are birth and marriage certificates, passports, and tax returns. These items are not only vital for financial recovery but also necessary for identification in emergency situations. Managing immediate expenses after a disaster also deserves attention. The national Ready campaign suggests having cash or traveler’s checks available, as initial hotel and food expenses may be necessary before insurance claims are processed. Additionally, it is advisable to have multiple credit cards, so spending can be managed effectively without exceeding the available credit limit. In summary, while climate change seems to be here to stay, preparation can mitigate much of the financial damage that can result from natural disasters. Creating an administrative emergency kit, reviewing and adjusting insurance policies, and proper financial planning are crucial steps that all citizens should take to protect their lives and property in an increasingly climate-prone world. The key is to anticipate, organize, and act before an emergency arises. It is a call to action that cannot be ignored.