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Natural disaster preparation

Protect your loved ones, property and finances by getting ready for natural disasters ahead of time.

Is your home insured and ready for a natural disaster?

Is your home insured and ready for a natural disaster?

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You never know when a natural disaster might strike, so it's important to be prepared.

Even though most Americans live in areas that have been affected by weather-related emergencies, the majority of us don't have an emergency plan.

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Only 48% of American families are confident they know how to prepare for a natural disaster. It's essential for you and your family to discuss a plan.
Also, you want to check your insurance coverage to make sure it's enough to replace your home and your belongings, if necessary.
Did you know, even with adequate coverage, most members would pay at least $1,500 in total deductibles after a natural disaster?
That's why it's important to stash away some savings into an emergency fund, so you're not dependent upon credit cards during a recovery.

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A few simple steps today could make a big difference.
USAA is here to help you protect your loved ones, your possessions and your finances. You can learn more on this page.
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Create a disaster plan.

Here are some ways you can start to create a disaster plan for you and your family.

Have an evacuation plan.

Make sure everyone knows how to get out, where to go and who needs help. For more tips, read our natural disaster evacuation guide.

Create an emergency kit.

Know what to include like a flashlight, duct tape, first aid kit, water, rope and batteries.

Keep your documents safe.

Have digital backups of financial, medical and legal documents, and use a fireproof safe. Get tips on securing your documents with this checklist.

Plan for your pets.

Be ready to protect every member of your family, including the furry ones. Learn how to evacuate with your pets.

Inventory your things.

Document your belongings to make sure they’re covered. Find out how to create an inventory and prepare your finances.

Be prepared if there’s a flood.

Floods can happen anywhere and are actually the most common natural disaster in the country.

It’s important to understand your risk and find out if flood coverage is right for you.

Learn what steps to take to prepare and stay safe during a flood.

Preparing for other natural disasters

Hurricanes

Plan ahead with resources on evacuation routes, emergency supplies, home prep and insurance info. For more tips, check out our hurricane safety guide.

Don't wait until hurricane season to get started. Help protect your home and your things from damage.

Go to hurricane checklist (Opens new window)

Hail

Hail can cause serious damage to your roof and vehicle. Find out how to protect your roof against water damage.

Weatherproofing your roof can also help keep your home safe. Plus, it can give you peace of mind knowing your home is better prepared for any storm.

Check out weatherproofing tips

Winter storms

Winter storms can cause issues like frozen pipes, car accidents, hypothermia and carbon monoxide poisoning.

To keep you and your family safe, check out winter weather tips from ready.gov. For tips on protecting your home, use our winter storm guide.

Read winter storm guide

Tornadoes

Tornadoes can hit with little or no warning, so it’s important to always be prepared.

Whether it’s seeking shelter or protecting your home, knowing the right steps can keep you and your family safe on how to prepare for tornado.

Find out how to stay safe and recover from tornadoes in our guide.

Explore the guide

Wildfires

To lower the risk of damage from embers and small flames, take preventative steps to protect your home from wildfires.

For more details on how to prepare your home, explore the Wildfire Prepared Home™ program.

Our wildfire guide offers more ways to keep you and your property safe.

Read wildfire guide

Earthquakes

When it comes to earthquakes, a little preparation can go a long way. Check out these tips to help you prepare for earthquakes.

If you live in an area where earthquakes are common, it’s important to reinforce and secure your home to minimize damage.

Prepare, stay safe and recover from earthquakes with our safety guide.

Read safety guide

Know your risks and help protect your property.

Find out if your property could be vulnerable to natural disasters and what coverage you might need.

Review your coverage

At least once a year, review your policies to make sure they still fit your needs and can help cover you if there’s a disaster.

Review my coverage

Look up local building codes

Modern building codes make sure your home is built to the latest standards, protecting against natural disasters.

Check local building codes

Be financially ready for natural disasters.

We have guides to help you be ready if a disaster strikes.

Prepare your finances

Get advice on how to save for an emergency, review your coverage for gaps and more.

Learn about financial prep

Build an emergency fund

Get tips on how to save and be ready for any unexpected expenses you might have.

Get savings tips

Learn how to budget

Our guide can help you make a plan to spend your money on things that matter to you.

Read our budget guide

Related resources

How to protect your roof from future water damage

Article: 4 minutes

Read article: How to protect your roof from future water damage

How to prep your finances for a natural disaster

Article: 3 minutes

Read article: How to prep your finances for a natural disaster

Why flood insurance is a wise bet for homeowners

Article: 5 minutes

Read article: Why flood insurance is a wise bet for homeowners

Related footnotes:

  1. Membership eligibility and product restrictions apply and are subject to change.

  2. Safety guidelines are not intended to be all inclusive, but are provided for your consideration. Please use your own judgment to determine what safety features/procedures should be used in each unique situation.

  3. The National Flood Insurance Program is not underwritten by United Services Automobile Association (USAA) or its affiliates based in San Antonio, Texas, and is provided by USAA General Indemnity Company (USAA-GIC), through an arrangement with the Federal Emergency Management Agency. The Federal government has financial responsibility for underwriting losses. The National Flood Insurance Program USAA-GIC is not available in Guam, U.S. Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico or overseas.

    The typical homeowners or rental property insurance policy doesn't include flood coverage, and in some locations, you may also need to obtain a wind-only insurance policy. Flood insurance can be purchased separately through the National Flood Insurance Program. The maximum limits of coverage available on the federal flood policy for residences are $250,000 on the building and $100,000 on contents. If you need additional flood insurance coverage beyond these amounts, you can contact USAA Insurance Agency which works with other insurance companies that provide excess flood coverage. Private flood coverage is not affiliated with the National Flood Insurance Program.

  4. The trademarks, logos and names of other companies, products and services are the property of their respective owners.

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