Insurers Warn Florida Residents to Prepare for Accelerating Storm in the Gulf

TALLAHASSEE, Florida, Oct. 8 -- The Property Casualty Insurers Association of America issued the following news release:

With Tropical Storm Michael expected to make landfall midweek as a hurricane, the Property Casualty Insurers Association of America (PCI) is encouraging those along the Florida Panhandle to prepare now.

"Florida home, business, and auto owners should take steps to prepare before this storm makes landfall bringing heavy rain, storm surge and strong winds to the area," said Logan McFaddin, PCI regional manager.

Governor Rick Scott announced that he will be issuing an executive order declaring a state of emergency for counties in the Florida Panhandle and Big Bend.

"As Floridians make preparations, it is important to remember being prepared should go beyond getting emergency supplies," continued McFaddin. "It is also important to be financially ready and make sure you have all important documents in case your property sustains damage and you need to file an insurance claim."

PCI recommends taking the following precautions:

* Review your property insurance policy, especially the "declarations" page, and check whether your policy pays replacement costs, or actual cash value for a covered loss.

* Inventory your household items, and photograph or videotape them for further documentation. Keep this information and your insurance policies in a safe place.

* Keep the name, address and claims-reporting telephone number of your insurer and agent in a safe and easily accessible place.

* Protect your property by covering all windows with plywood or shutters, moving vehicles into the garage when possible and placing grills and patio furniture indoors.

* Keep all receipts for any repairs so your insurance company can reimburse you.

* Check with your insurance adjuster for referrals to professional restoration, cleaning and salvage companies if additional assistance is needed.

* Make sure watercraft are stored in a secure area, like a garage or covered boat dock. A typical homeowner's policy will cover property damage in limited instances for small watercraft, and separate boat policies will provide broader, more extensive property and liability protection for larger, faster boat, yachts, jet skis and wave runners. Additional information can be found on PCI's Hurricane Headquarters page.

Flooding is not covered by a standard homeowners policy; however, flood insurance coverage can be purchased through the National Flood Insurance Program or your insurance company. Flood insurance coverage typically has a 30-day waiting period between the date of purchase and when the actual flood coverage goes into effect.