AAA urges homeowners to plan ahead and stock an emergency kit
OKLAHOMA CITY – April 10, 2025 – The wildfires that ravaged homes and properties in Los Angeles and, right here close to home, in parts of Oklahoma earlier this year may seem an extreme and unlikely example of loss, but according to the U.S. Census Bureau, fires, tornadoes, hurricanes, floods and other natural disasters force more than two million people from their homes each year.
With the expectation of spring storms and tornado season, and even the possibility of more unexpected wildfires, AAA reminds homeowners to plan and prepare for any possibility.
“The most important aspect of any plan is, first and foremost, to ensure everyone’s safety,” said Dan Scroggins, Vice President, Personal Lines Insurance, at The Insurance Agency at AAA. “Having a readily available grab-and-go emergency kit that includes critical documents can make both the evacuation and recovery process more manageable.”
AAA recommends homeowners follow five steps in preparation for a natural disaster:
-
Make a Plan – Develop a family emergency plan including ways to contact each other, alternative meeting locations, and an out-of-town contact. Identify a safe room or safest areas in your home. Research your evacuation route. Be sure to include plans for your pets.
-
Take Inventory – Update your home inventory by walking through your home with a video camera or smart phone. Keep a record of large purchases, including the cost of the item, date purchased, and model and serial numbers if available.
-
Check Your Vehicle – There are a record number of older vehicles on U.S. roadways. Basic maintenance is critical to ensuring that your vehicle will be ready to go when you need it.
-
Protect Your Property – Review your homeowner’s insurance coverage with your advisor to determine if you have adequate protection. Discuss your deductibles. Be aware that flood insurance is not typically covered under your homeowner’s policy. Flooding to your vehicle, however, may be covered. Again, consult your advisor to ensure adequate coverage.
-
Stock a Grab-and-Go Home Emergency Kit – Consider the critical items you might need if:
-
Disaster destroys your home, leaving it uninhabitable.
-
Disaster damages your home, resulting in significant losses
-
Disaster knocks out electricity, internet and/or cell service to your home for a prolonged period
driver’s licenses, passports, insurance cards and medical documents. It is best to store these items in a waterproof, grab-and-go carrier
Get Local News!
