Modern-Day

Disaster Preparedness

Escalating Threats

The United States is experiencing an unprecedented increase in Natural disasters. As stories of damage and destruction pour in through the news with record-breaking accounts of severity, there has never been a more urgent time for high-net-worth homeowners to prioritize their safety and protect their assets.

Are You Ready?

Follow these expert recommendations to ensure that you’ve covered all your bases when it comes to preparing for a natural disaster.

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STEP 1:

Get a Good “Go-Bag”

Several brands manufacture high-quality, comprehensive emergency kits. Our top pick: SOS Survival Products. This company specializes in emergency supplies for just about any disaster situation and also sells first aid kits for your pets. Take that kit and create a fully-stocked Go-Bag that contains crucial personal items you must take in a grab-and-go situation.

STEP 2:

Invest in a Generator

Southern California Edison’s Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS) across the west are just one of the reasons why we highly recommend investing in a whole-house backup generator with the capacity (and available fuel) to keep appliances, heaters, alarm systems, water pumps, and medical equipment running in the event of a power outage.

STEP 3:

Stay Informed

Make sure you have a way to stay up-to-date on the latest emergency news. Purchase in a portable, multifunction radio like the Voyager KA500 that has USB charging for your devices, solar and crank power capabilities, a built-in LED flashlight and seven pre-programmed NOAA weather stations.

STEP 4:

Prioritize Communication

Agree on how you will communicate with loved ones and set a pre-planned meeting point to reconvene should your group get separated. Be sure that you have one out-of-state contact who can act as a liaison in an emergency. Consider purchasing a satellite phone like the Iridium 9555 if you are located in a rural area or canyon with poor cell reception.

STEP 5:

Facilitate Access for First Responders

Solutions like Knox® boxes can greatly help to minimize property damage and save lives, giving first responders immediate access to your property. Forced entry is time-consuming, and every second matters in an emergency situation. Knox® Rapid Access Systems allow fire and law enforcement agencies entrance to your home with one master key.

STEP 6:

Document Your Belongings

Now is the time to make sure you’ve got proof of your assets. Take video footage of the items in your closet and storage spaces. Have your artwork and collectibles assessed, and store all of that information in a fireproof safe or briefcase. Be sure that your evacuation plan includes knowing how to pack and transport any vintage items or irreplaceable keepsakes.

STEP 7:

Ready Your Home

Choose fire-resistant landscaping and clean roofs and gutters regularly. Secure heavy furniture and appliances to the walls with anchors to mitigate loss in an earthquake. Residents living in hurricane-prone areas must install impact-resistant shutters. Educate yourself on how to prevent your pipes from freezing in the event of a winter storm.

STEP 8:

ADJUST YOUR ROUTINE

Keep at least half a tank of gas (or charge) in your car at all times so that you can be ready to evacuate at a moment’s notice. It’s equally important to have cash on hand for instances when the power is out and ATMs and credit card machines are down. Store flashlights, a pair of shoes, and glasses near your bedside for immediate access.

STEP 9:

Plan for Recovery

Stay informed about changes in insurance legislation such as recent bills signed in California that increase insurance protections in response to worsening natural disasters. When investigating coverage options, utilize the AM Best Ratings Service and aim for an A- rating or higher, preferably in the XV (or greater) Financial Size Category.

STEP 10:

Lean on Expert Advisors

High-net-worth property owners have unique insurance needs that call for wider considerations and a more personalized approach. One of the greatest comforts available to you, as you work to protect your family and preserve your wealth, is having the right team of expert advisors on your side, familiar with the particular risks associated with valuable assets.

Hand-Crafted Solutions

There are only a small number of insurance carriers in the United States with the infrastructure and experience to provide adequate coverage for high-value estates. Premier Private Client is apart of a very select group of brokers that has direct access to these qualified vendors in the event of a disaster. With 25 years of industry experience, Premier Private Client caters exclusively to clients who require distinctive attention and curated high-net-worth insurance solutions. To set up a complimentary Premier Lifestyle Risk Assessment or request more information, contact us today.

Download our Disaster-Response Handbook to gauge your knowledge and improve your family’s emergency preparedness today.