What To Do When A Loss Occurs
The following information is provided to assist you if a loss occurs. Each claim submitted must be reviewed and evaluated based on facts and your policy of insurance.
Automobile Losses
- Stay as calm as possible
- Make sure everyone is OK - call 911 if necessary
- Call the police
- Exchange contact information including insurance information of all parties, names and phone numbers of witnesses
- Do not discuss fault or blame at the scene or the details of the accident with the other party
Water Losses
You may need to take certain temporary measures if you have a water loss of any type. Listed below are some temporary and immediate measures you may wish to take:
- Temporary repairs to a leaking roof or pipes
- Remove water and dry any affected areas(if you require assistance, there are 24 hour emergency services)
Fire Losses
- Never go back in a burning building - stay out of the house until cleared to re-enter by the Fire Department
- If necessary, temporarily "board up" windows and doors
Lightning Losses
- Protect yourself and others
- Call for emergency response including the Fire department if there is smoke or fire, and the utility company for downed wires, etc.
- Do not turn on electricity until the utility company has made any necessary repairs
- Make any temporary repairs to keep the premises safe and secure as soon as possible
Hail, Thunder and Wind Losses
Thunderstorms often bring heavy rains and wind, hail, lightning and sometimes tornadoes. Sometime there is warning ahead of the storm, other times there is not. There are several things you can do to prepare to keep your family safe and secure.
- Secure outdoor furniture
- Secure shutters, doors and windows
- Turn on your weather radio
- Do not handle electrical equipment or telephones
- Avoid bathtubs, sinks, metal pipes and other metal objects as they can be electrical conductors
- Take cover as quickly as possible
- If you are caught outside during a thunderstorm:
- Try to get to the nearest building or car or stay low to the ground while watching for flash flooding
- Stay away from natural lightning rods such as bicycles, golf clubs, fishing rods, etc.
- If you are driving, it is safer to pull onto the shoulder away from trees. Stay in the vehicle and turn on emergency flashers.
Tornado
It is important to prepare a "survival" kit including bottled water, battery operated weather radio and flashlight. Remember those extra batteries as well.
As soon as possible, seek shelter from windows. Basements and storm cellars are very good shelters, or take cover in a bathroom, closet or under a sturdy pieces of furniture.
If you are in a car, do not keep driving or try to "outrun" the storm. Stop the car and look for a shelter - if there is none, lie in a low area such as a ditch.
Windshield or Glass Only Repair or Replacement
Some companies have special glass repair and replacement programs. For more specific details, call your company using the number provided.
Preparing for a Weather Emergency
- Keep a record of important phone numbers
- Inventory personal and business belongings before a loss occurs. Update your inventory often!
- Record your inventory one area at a time filling in purchase date, purchase price and estimated replacement cost. Pictures and videos are recommended to document special collectible items or antiques and date them. Save receipts, invoices, warranties, and other documentation.
- Store your inventory in a secure place away from the home or business. A safe or safe deposit box are good sources.
- Prepare a Storm Survival Kit that includes such items as first aid supplies, flashlights (and extra batteries), battery powered radio, blankets and bottled water.
Additional information is available to help you protect your family and/or business. Although nothing can be done to prevent storms or some other hazards, there are actions you can take for safety. The Centers for Disease Control has a web site for Emergency Response and Preparation. The Centers for Disease Control web site includes information on several types of emergency situations. There are several links within the web site that include information on preparing for severe weather.
Remember... Homeowners policies have limits for certain types of personal property including jewelry, securities, coins, art and other valuables. For more information, please contact your agent for details.