Take Action Before and After a Natural Disaster

From the tornadoes in Tuscaloosa to Hurricane Irene, natural disasters strike new areas and dress front page news almost monthly nowadays. Anticipating the storm before it hits and knowing what to do afterwards are extremely important, as is insurance for flooding and storm damage, says Hon. Nancy Harvey Steorts, Former Chairman, U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. “Most people think they’re covered [by insurance providers] and realize too late that they are not.” People were in hurricanes that have never been in a hurricane before she says, adding that this is why everyone needs to have a separate flood insurance policy. Steorts highly recommends that homeowners thoroughly inspect their foundation after a natural disaster occurs and keep both written and photographed records of any damage. Once the damage has been evaluated and maintenance is deemed necessary, Steorts says to be wary of contractors. “All kinds of people will show up at your house. Only allow those who are licensed, certified, bonded and insured to fix your home,” she says. “And check their licenses!”