As we quickly move into tornado season, the Property Casualty Insurers Association of America (PCI) is encouraging all homeowners, business owners, and renters to review the coverage they carry and get in touch with an agent or their insurance company to discuss any additional coverage they may need.
Tornado season begins in the months of March and April, peaks in the southern plains during May and June, and will take hold of the Midwest and northern plains in June and July. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s National Climatic Data Center estimates that over 1,150 tornadoes touched down in 2009. Most were clustered in the Southeast and Midwest, with the largest outbreak occurring on April 10th, killing two people.
Most losses that occur because of tornadoes, windstorms, hail, and the like are covered by homeowners, renters or commercial policies; tornado losses to your home should be covered under the “windstorm” peril coverage portion of your homeowners policy. Renters insurance would cover possessions lost in severe weather and business owners would have coverage under their commercial policies.
Donald Griffin, vice president personal lines for PCI says, “with wind speeds that can reach nearly 300 MPH, tornadoes can be deadly and cause severe property damage. Because tornadoes can occur rapidly and with little warning, advanced preparation is very important. We encourage consumers to know the warning signals used in their community and be prepared to take cover when alerted. Maintaining an emergency storm kit with a radio, flashlight, batteries and first-aid items is the first step in preparation. Other steps include conducting tornado drills with your family and ensuring that your property is adequately insured.”
So stay alert to warning signs this year during the severe-weather months and be prepared!
Wed, Mar 31, 2010
Homeowner's Insurance, Renters Insurance