Protecting Your Property Against Flood Damage (NAPSA)—Any time of year can be the right time to protect yourself, your family and your home from the damage a flood can cause. If you live in a high-risk area, it’s a good idea to start by exploring safeguards and addi- tional insurance. According to a 2008 survey by the Insurance Information Institute, only 17 percent of Ameri- cans purchased flood insurance. On average, it can take up to 30 days for any flood policy to becomeeffective, so considering this additional policy should be something every homeowner does prior to the summer months. “Claims related to water are amongthe leading property damage losses in personal insurance,” said Jim Kane, HUB International Personal Insurance. The federal governmentoffers federally backed flood insurance under the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), making flood insurance an affordable policy—with flexible building and contents coverage options—in areas of varying risk. Claims for flood insurance may be made any time there is flood damage to a covered structure, structural component, utilities, or contents covered by contents coverage. It is important to work with the right insurance professional to assess specific needs and theright policy choice based on location, limits and several otherfactors. To learn more, visit www.hub international.com. Flood Safety Tips In addition to added insurance, here are somesimple steps you cantake fo increase safety. eDevelop a family emergency plan. Plan andpractice a flood evacuation route with your family. Ask relatives to be an emergency family contact, and create an emergencysatety kit. ePurchase or maintain a batteryoperated radio for use during storms. eDetermine yourfloodrisk by entering your address at www.floodsmart.gov. e(ontinue regular upkeep of your home. Check your sump pump monthly, clear debris from gutters, anchor any fuel tanks, and raise yourelectrical components above your home's projected floodelevation. eKeep a copy of important papers and an inventory of possessions(film, photos, videos) in a waterproofcontaineror safedeposit box in a secure placeoroff premises.
