If Disaster Strikes, Are You Prepared? Q&A With Cornerstone’s Chris Walton

1. What disasters should homeowners realistically prepare for? 

Walton: Homeowners face a variety of natural disasters depending on their location: 

• Hurricanes and tropical storms – primarily along coasts  

• Wind and hailstorms – common in many regions 

• Flash flooding – can occur in both coastal and inland areas  

• Tornadoes – mostly in the Midwest and parts of the East  

• Wildfires – especially in Western states  

• Winter storms – common in the Upper Midwest and Northeast  

Because risks vary by location, disaster preparedness should be location-specific, and homeowners should work closely with their insurance agent to ensure they are ready. 

2. What should every homeowner include in a basic emergency preparedness plan? 

Walton: A basic plan should cover: 

• Evacuation routes – plan multiple routes out of your area, especially in flood zones  

• Family meeting spots – designate safe locations for family members to gather  

• Pet and livestock plans – ensure animals are accounted for and safe  

• Emergency contacts – maintain written lists of phone numbers  

• Shelter-in-place procedures – for scenarios where evacuation isn’t possible  

• Access to local news – a battery-powered or hand-crank radio helps track updates  

Planning ahead ensures that family, friends, and pets are safe when disaster strikes. 

3. What items should be in an emergency kit that people often forget? 

Walton: Beyond the basics of food, water, and flashlights, don’t forget: 

• Copies of insurance policies and IDs (driver’s license, state ID)  

• Backup phone chargers or battery banks  

• Prescriptions, medical devices, glasses, contacts  

• Masks for smoke or debris  

• Cash in small bills in case ATMs or credit card systems are down  

• Pet food for animals  

• Manual can opener for canned food  

• Digital backup of important documents like insurance policies and birth certificates  

4. How can homeowners protect their property before a disaster? 

Walton: Proactive steps include: 

• Maintaining roofs, siding, and gutters  

• Securing fences, sheds, trampolines, and outdoor furniture  

• Trimming tree branches near the home  

• Installing whole-home surge protection to safeguard electrical devices  

5. How should preparation differ for hurricanes, floods, and wildfires? 

Walton: There are a few unique steps to take for each type of disaster.

Hurricanes/tropical storms: Install storm shutters or impact-rated windows, secure outdoor items, know evacuation routes, and understand your wind vs. flood deductibles.  

Floods: Carry flood insurance, elevate valuables and documents to upper floors, and install sewer/backflow prevention devices.  

Wildfires: Maintain defensible space (remove trees, brush, weeds within 30 feet), use fire-resistant roofing or building materials, and have go-bags ready with essentials.  

6. What simple upgrades or precautions can reduce damage risk? 

Walton: This is a great question. Here are a few things to research and consider:

• Class 4 impact-resistant shingle roofs can help protect against hail, debris, and wind.  

• Smart leak detectors with automatic shutoffs can help prevent water damage.

• Adding fire-resistant materials for homes in wildfire zones.

• Proper ventilation under soffits and above windows can help reduce roof lift during high winds.  

7. What insurance documents or information should homeowners have ready? 

Walton: There are a few things you should always have handy: 

• Homeowners policy and declarations page  

• Flood or windstorm policies (if applicable)  

• Agent and insurance company contact information  
  
• Photo or video home inventory, including high-value items  

Store these artifacts somewhere safe and easily accessible in virtually any situation.

8. What are the biggest mistakes people make before or after a disaster? 

Walton: Here are a few common mistakes that are very avoidable:

• Assuming flood damage is covered under standard homeowners’ insurance.  

• Misunderstanding how deductibles work. For example, percentage-based deductibles change with property value.

• Failing to review policies regularly. In general, it’s important to review your policies at least annually to make sure they still meet your needs and preferences.  

• Waiting too long to file a claim. This can affect coverage and timelines, so it’s best to file your claim quickly once your property is damaged.   

9. What should homeowners do immediately after a disaster? 

Walton: 

• Prioritize safety – avoid downed power lines or unstable structures.  

• Document damage – take photos and videos while it’s fresh.

• Prevent further damage – tarp roofs or windows as needed.  

• Save receipts for temporary repairs or housing. 

• Contact your insurance agent promptly.  

• Check for gas leaks and electrical hazards.  

10. How often should people review their policies? 

Walton: At minimum, once a year, ideally before hurricane or storm season. You should also review your policies after: 

• Renovations or major purchases;  

• Significant increases in construction costs; and,  

• Policy changes or deductible updates.  

Also, ask your agent about: 

• Ordinance and law coverage;  

• Tree removal coverage; and,  

• High-value items like jewelry, which may require separate policies.  

 
Disaster preparedness goes beyond just having insurance; it’s about planning, protecting your property, and knowing your coverage. Working with your agent and reviewing your policies regularly ensures you and your home are ready for whatever nature throws your way. 

For more guidance on disaster preparedness and coverage options, contact Cornerstone Insurance Agency today. 

This article is for informational purposes only. You should not act based on this information without first consulting with your insurance agent; if you would like a quote from a Cornerstone Insurance Agency licensed agent, contact us. We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken by you based on the contents of this article which is provided “as is.” Cornerstone makes no representation that this content is error-free.