Department of Insurance responds to assist residents following Napa quake News: 2014 Press Release For Release: August 25, 2014 Media Calls Only: 916-492-3566 Department of Insurance responds to assist residents following Napa quake Department’s consumer services and enforcement teams on site to assist NAPA, Calif. - The 6.0 earthquake that struck the Napa valley in the pre-dawn hours Sunday, causing widespread damage and injury is a stark reminder that we live in earthquake country and California residents need to prepare for the inevitable by having an emergency plan with adequate supplies to survive the first few days and consider how best to secure their biggest asset-their home-from devastating loss either through retrofitting or purchasing earthquake insurance. Officials from the departments consumer services, fraud and investigations enforcement teams are in Napa to assist consumers with any questions or concerns as they begin the insurance claim process and to ensure insurers are providing appropriate assistance for consumers. I extend my sincere concern and sympathy for those who experienced injury or are dealing with damage to their homes and personal property caused by the Napa quake, said Insurance Commissioner Dave Jones. Mother nature has given us numerous warnings to prepare for earthquakes, which we all know can strike anytime. This reality was underscored by Sundays temblor. Californians must stop to take some very simple, but very effective precautionary steps before the next quake strikes. To find important information about preparing for a disaster, please visit the web site of the California Department of Insurance or call our toll-free consumer hotline at 1-800-927-HELP. Earthquake preparedness includes, but is not limited to, the following: Review your insurance policies at least once each year with your agent or broker to ensure that they provide adequate coverage. Consider purchasing an earthquake policy if your home is in an earthquake-prone area, and is more susceptible to earthquake damage such as older or multi-story homes, or homes on soft soil or a slope. Take measures to retrofit your home to increase your safety during an earthquake. Bolting your homes wood frame to the foundation can prevent damage resulting from the structure sliding off its foundation. And for houses on raised foundations, the bracing of cripple walls can also reduce damage from earthquakes. Brace your water heater to minimize the risks of fire and water damage caused by water heaters that topple during earthquakes. Mobilehome owners should use earthquake-bracing systems to reduce the chance of damage from homes slipping off support jacks. Fasten cupboard doors with child-proof latches to prevent them from opening and spilling their contents. Fasten bookcases, mirrors, televisions and other tall or heavy objects to wall studs. Gas appliances should have flexible attachments, and family members should be familiar with gas shut-off techniques. For more earthquake preparedness tips, go toredcross.org and earthquake.usgs.gov/learn/preparedness.php. Most homeowners and renters policies do not cover damage from earthquakes. Under California law all insurers selling residential property insurance are required to also offer earthquake coverage subject to minimum dwelling, personal property and additional living expense limits. Dwellings must be covered but other structures such as outbuildings, swimming pools, and masonry fences may be excluded. insurance.ca.gov/0400-news/0100-press-releases/2014/release079-14.cfm
Posted on: Fri, 10 Oct 2014 00:02:31 +0000