Catastrophe Claims

Hurricane

• Trim trees and shrubs to aid wind resistance.
• Make sure rain gutters and downspouts are free of debris.
• Install window shutters or board up windows with pre-cut 5/8-inch marine plywood.
• Secure the roof to the walls with hurricane straps or clips. You can do this yourself or hire a professional.

Tornado

• Store batteries, weather radio, flashlights and water in basement or storm shelter for use during an event.
• If you don’t have a basement or storm shelter, find an interior room with no windows to be your designated space.
• Close interior doors to help compartmentalize the structure and provide more barriers between you and the storm.

Earthquake

• Anchor furnishings to walls — bookcases, grandfather clocks, cabinets, artwork, etc. 
• Install latches on drawers and cabinet doors to keep contents from spilling. 
• Apply safety film to windows and glass doors to prevent shattering. 
• Install ledge barriers on shelves and place heavy items on low shelves. 
• Secure the water heater and other large appliances to walls. 
• Attach ceiling fixtures to the permanent structure. Hire an electrician to attach lights and fans.

Wildfire

• Remove dead vegetation from plants and lower branches from tall trees. 
• Keep the gutters, roof and outdoor spaces free of debris like leaves and twigs. 
• Clear out window screens and attic vents.
• Move firewood at least 30 feet from the house. 
• Use roofing materials with a Class A fire rating (the highest). 
• Install metal angle flashing at the edge of the roof. 
• Box in eaves that have an open construction (i.e., where rafter tails are visible). 
• Install metal flashing where wood decking meets the siding (if the siding is combustible). 
• Replace single-pane windows with multi-pane, tempered-glass windows with screens.

Evacuation

If you evacuate, return home only when officials say it is safe. If you cannot return home and have immediate housing needs, text SHELTER + your ZIP code to 43362 (4FEMA) to find the nearest shelter in your area (example: shelter 12345).