Tornado Facts and Preparation Tips

by Global Florida | Feb 10, 2021 | Blog | 0 comments

Tornadoes are nature’s most violent storms. Spawned from powerful thunderstorms, tornadoes can cause fatalities and devastate a neighborhood in seconds. A tornado appears as a rotating, funnel-shaped cloud that extends from a thunderstorm to the ground with whirling winds that can reach 300 miles per hour. Damage paths can be in excess of one mile wide and 50 miles long. Every state is at some risk from this hazard. Some tornadoes are clearly visible, while rain or nearby low-hanging clouds obscure others. Occasionally, tornadoes develop so rapidly that little, if any, advance warning is possible. Before a tornado hits, the wind may die down and the air may become very still. A cloud of debris can mark the location of a tornado even if a funnel is not visible. Tornadoes generally occur near the trailing edge of a thunderstorm. It is not uncommon to see clear, sunlit skies behind a tornado.

Before a Tornado

• To begin preparing, you should build an emergency kit and make a family communications plan.
• Listen to NOAA Weather Radio or to commercial radio or television newscasts for the latest information. In any emergency, always listen to the instructions given by local emergency management officials.
• Be alert to changing weather conditions. Look for approaching storms.
• Look for the following danger signs:
  • Dark, often greenish sky
  • Large hail
  • A large, dark, low-lying cloud (particularly if rotating)
  • Loud roar, similar to a freight train.
  • If you see approaching storms or any of the danger signs, be prepared to take shelter immediately.

During a Tornado

If you are under a tornado warning, seek shelter immediately!  Most injuries associated with high winds are from flying debris, so remember to protect your head.

After a Tornado

Injury may result from the direct impact of a tornado or it may occur afterward when people walk among debris and enter damaged buildings. A study of injuries after a tornado in Marion, Illinois, showed that 50 percent of the tornado-related injuries were suffered during rescue attempts, cleanup and other post-tornado activities. Nearly a third of the injuries resulted from stepping on nails. Because tornadoes often damage power lines, gas lines or electrical systems, there is a risk of fire, electrocution or an explosion. Protecting yourself and your family requires promptly treating any injuries suffered during the storm and using extreme care to avoid further hazards.

Injuries

Check for injuries. Do not attempt to move seriously injured people unless they are in immediate danger of further injury. Get medical assistance immediately. If someone has stopped breathing, begin CPR if you are trained to do so. Stop a bleeding injury by applying direct pressure to the wound. Have any puncture wound evaluated by a physician. If you are trapped, try to attract attention to your location.

General Safety Precautions

Here are some safety precautions that could help you avoid injury after a tornado:

• Continue to monitor your battery-powered radio or television for emergency information.
• Be careful when entering any structure that has been damaged.
• Wear sturdy shoes or boots, long sleeves and gloves when handling or walking on or near debris.
• Be aware of hazards from exposed nails and broken glass.
• Do not touch downed power lines or objects in contact with downed lines. Report electrical hazards to the police and the utility company.
• Use battery-powered lanterns, if possible, rather than candles to light homes without electrical power. If you use candles, make sure they are in safe holders away from curtains, paper, wood or other flammable items. Never leave a candle burning when you are out of the room.
• Never use generators, pressure washers, grills, camp stoves or other gasoline, propane, natural gas or charcoal-burning devices inside your home, basement, garage or camper – or even outside near an open window, door or vent. Carbon monoxide (CO) – an odorless, colorless gas that can cause sudden illness and death if you breathe it – from these sources can build up in your home, garage or camper and poison the people and animals inside. Seek prompt medical attention if you suspect CO poisoning and are feeling dizzy, light-headed or nauseated.
• Hang up displaced telephone receivers that may have been knocked off by the tornado, but stay off the telephone, except to report an emergency.
• Cooperate fully with public safety officials.
• Respond to requests for volunteer assistance by police, fire fighters, emergency management and relief organizations, but do not go into damaged areas unless assistance has been requested. Your presence could hamper relief efforts and you could endanger yourself.

Inspecting the Damage

• After a tornado, be aware of possible structural, electrical or gas-leak hazards in your home. Contact your local city or county building inspectors for information on structural safety codes and standards. They may also offer suggestions on finding a qualified contractor to do work for you.
• In general, if you suspect any damage to your home, shut off electrical power, natural gas and propane tanks to avoid fire, electrocution or explosions.
• If it is dark when you are inspecting your home, use a flashlight rather than a candle or torch to avoid the risk of fire or explosion in a damaged home.
• If you see frayed wiring or sparks, or if there is an odor of something burning, you should immediately shut off the electrical system at the main circuit breaker if you have not done so already.
• If you smell gas or suspect a leak, turn off the main gas valve, open all windows and leave the house immediately. Notify the gas company, the police or fire departments, or State Fire Marshal’s office and do not turn on the lights, light matches, smoke or do anything that could cause a spark. Do not return to your house until you are told it is safe to do so.

Safety During Clean Up

• Wear sturdy shoes or boots, long sleeves and gloves.
• Learn proper safety procedures and operating instructions before operating any gas-powered or electric-powered saws or tools.
• Clean up spilled medicines, drugs, flammable liquids and other potentially hazardous materials.

More info:

http://www.ready.gov/tornadoes

Tornado Safety Tips

by Global Florida | Jan 26, 2021 | Blog | 0 comments

The Warnings From the Sky:

Look for the weather cues of an oncoming tornado which are outlined in the below tornado safety tips:

A dark green-tinged sky;
Heavy rain or large hail followed by dead calm or fierce wind;
Intense and frequent lightening;
A rapidly approaching or rotating dark low-lying cloud;
Dark storm-clouds advancing from the horizon; or
At night, blue-green or white flashes at ground level (an indication that a powerful wind is snapping power lines.
You might not actually see a tornado; it might not be transparent until a funnel of cloud slithers down to earth, or until it solidifies by picking up debris and dirt.

Listen for danger warnings:

• Tune in to television weather newscasts, local radio stations, or the NOAA Weather Radio

• In case of a Tornado Watch or a Tornado Warning, pay close attention and follow the instructions of the local emergency officials.

• Outside, listen for a

load roaring

• (as if from a jet or a freight train).

• Your local community may warn you with a designated siren call.

Recognize the Preconditions

Check your calendar. Tornados are most frequently reported in the spring (March, April, and May), although they may continue through early summer.

Where do you live? Tornados often strike east of the Rocky Mountains.

Know the difference:

Tornado Watch: The event of a tornado is possible and likely. Remain alert and stay tuned to local weather forecast.
Tornado Warning: A tornado has been sighted. Seek shelter immediately.

Prepare an Emergency Plan.

Designate a “safety room” which would serve as the best shelter during a tornado. This shelter should be at the lowest level (like a basement or storm cellar).
Ensure that everyone in the family is aware of the safety room and that it is easily accessible to all.

Choose Your Sanctuary Wisely

If you are in a solid building (home, workspace, skyscraper):

If you’re at home, head to your pre-designated shelter.
First option: lowest level of a building, at the center of an interior room.
Second option: in a high-rise building, head to the hallway, a small interior room or closet in the lowest floor, or beneath a stairwell.
Choose rooms on the east or north sides of the shelter if there is no interior room.
Rooms (such as the kitchen) with lots of potentially flying objects.
Avoid large rooms with poorly supported roofs (auditoriums, gymnasiums, etc.).

Inside that room,

Stay close to the innermost walls of the building.
Crouch beneath a sturdy table or desk.
Cover yourself with padding—blankets, mattress, a helmet.
Adopt a protective crouch: low against the floor, face-down, covering your head with your hands.
Avoid windows, doors, and corners.

Don’t bother opening windows (to equalize air pressure); the wind will shatter them soon enough.

Avoid glass.
Avoid candles, gas lanterns, and other such flammable objects.
Avoid elevators; you may be trapped if the power goes out.
Avoid being beneath the part of the ceiling which supports a very heavy object (piano, fridge) on the above level
f you are in a shopping mall or large store:

Stay inside an interior bathroom, storage room, or any other windowless interior room.
Do not evacuate the building to go outside or to your car!

If you are in a mobile home, trailer, or other automobile:

Get out immediately and head to the nearest solid building.
A tied-down mobile home or trailer will not offer protection—a mobile home can quickly morph into an airborne missile.

If you are in a car:

Try to drive away: if the tornado is far and traffic is light, try to drive out of its path by moving at right angles to the tornado.
Never try to outrun (or out-drive) a tornado in a congested urban area; you may be stuck in traffic in an exposed road.
Seek shelter in a building or underground.
If there is a ditch or area noticeably lower than the level of the roadway, abandon your car and lie down in that area.
If storm catches up, pull over (out of traffic lanes), buckle up, and crouch down (gathering as much padding on you as possible).
Avoid bridges; they offer little protection from flying debris, and pose lethal traffic hazards.
Avoid buses and vans; big flat-surfaced vehicles are most vulnerable to the storm (and heavy!).

If you are outside with no shelter to access:

If you can’t get to a sturdy building, lie flat and face-down on low ground.
Clasp the back of your head protectively with your hands.
Avoid nearby trees and cars; they may be uprooted or dislocated, and could hit you.

Safety After the Tornado Strikes

Help or get help for those who are trapped or injured.

Do not attempt to move seriously injured individuals; call for help.

tay tuned to the local media for the latest emergency updates. They may have tornado safety tips that are uniquely relevent to your situation.

Evacuate or avoid damaged buildings, which may collapse.

Use your phone only for emergencies.

leave a building immediately if you smell gas or chemical fumes.

Clean up spilled medicine, bleach, gasoline, or other flammable liquids immediately and if possible.

Beware of other fire hazards:

Anything containing gas can potentially rupture and explode
Beware severed electrical wires
Ensure that appliances aren’t emitting sparks and smoke

For insurance, photograph the damage.

A stash of padding gear (blankets, a mattress, coats)

Sturdy shoes, to protect you from glass and debris

Portable, battery-powered TV or radio to stay updated

lashlights and batteries, or unlit candles and matches

Never strike a match until you’re sure you haven’t had a gas leak!

A first aid kit (include aspirin, prescription items, and antacids)

Any essential medication

Tools including a utility knife, can opener, and wrench

Bottled water

Canned food and other non-perishables

Experts recommend having supplies for at least three days

Cash and credit cards, passport, social security cards, etc.

Thunderstorms & Lightning Facts and Information

by Global Florida | Mar 3, 2018 | Blog | 0 comments

All thunderstorms are dangerous. Every thunderstorm produces lightning. While lightning fatalities have decreased over the past 30 years, lightning continues to be one of the top three storm-related killers in the United States. In 2010 there were 29 fatalities and 182 injuries from lightning. Although most lightning victims survive, people struck by lightning often report a variety of long-term, debilitating symptoms.

Other associated dangers of thunderstorms include tornadoes, strong winds, hail and flash flooding. Flash flooding is responsible for more fatalities – more than 140 annually – than any other thunderstorm-associated hazard. Dry thunderstorms that do not produce rain that reaches the ground are most prevalent in the western United States. Falling raindrops evaporate, but lightning can still reach the ground and can start wildfires.

Before Thunderstorm and Lightning

To prepare for a thunderstorm, you should do the following:

• To begin preparing, you should build an emergency kit and make a family communications plan.
• Remove dead or rotting trees and branches that could fall and cause injury or damage during a severe thunderstorm.
• Postpone outdoor activities.
• Remember the 30/30 Lightning Safety Rule: Go indoors if, after seeing lightning, you cannot count to 30 before hearing thunder. Stay indoors for 30 minutes after hearing the last clap of thunder.
• Secure outdoor objects that could blow away or cause damage.
• Get inside a home, building, or hard top automobile (not a convertible). Although you may be injured if lightning strikes your car, you are much safer inside a vehicle than outside.
• Remember, rubber-soled shoes and rubber tires provide NO protection from lightning. However, the steel frame of a hard-topped vehicle provides increased protection if you are not touching metal.
• Shutter windows and secure outside doors. If shutters are not available, close window blinds, shades or curtains.
• Unplug any electronic equipment well before the storm arrives.

During Thunderstorms and Lightning

If thunderstorm and lightning are occurring in your area, you should:

• Use your battery-operated NOAA Weather Radio for updates from local officials.
• Avoid contact with corded phones. Use a corded telephone only for emergencies. Cordless and cellular telephones are safe to use.
• Avoid contact with electrical equipment or cords. Unplug appliances and other electrical items such as computers and turn off air conditioners. Power surges from lightning can cause serious damage.
• Avoid contact with plumbing. Do not wash your hands, do not take a shower, do not wash dishes, and do not do laundry. Plumbing and bathroom fixtures can conduct electricity.
• Stay away from windows and doors, and stay off porches.
• Do not lie on concrete floors and do not lean against concrete walls.
• Avoid natural lightning rods such as a tall, isolated tree in an open area.
• Avoid hilltops, open fields, the beach or a boat on the water.
• Take shelter in a sturdy building. Avoid isolated sheds or other small structures in open areas.
• Avoid contact with anything metal—tractors, farm equipment, motorcycles, golf carts, golf clubs, and bicycles.
• If you are driving, try to safely exit the roadway and park. Stay in the vehicle and turn on the emergency flashers until the heavy rain ends. Avoid touching metal or other surfaces that conduct electricity in and outside the vehicle.

After a Thunderstorm or Lightning Strike

If lightning strikes you or someone you know, call 9-1-1 for medical assistance as soon as possible. The following are things you should check when you attempt to give aid to a victim of lightning:

• Breathing – if breathing has stopped, begin mouth-to-mouth resuscitation.
• Heartbeat – if the heart has stopped, administer CPR.
• Pulse – if the victim has a pulse and is breathing, look for other possible injuries. Check for burns where the lightning entered and left the body. Also be alert for nervous system damage, broken bones and loss of hearing and eyesight.

After the storm passes remember to:

• Never drive through a flooded roadway. Turn around, don’t drown!
• Stay away from storm-damaged areas to keep from putting yourself at risk from the effects of severe thunderstorms.
• Continue to listen to a NOAA Weather Radio or to local radio and television stations for updated information or instructions, as access to roads or some parts of the community may be blocked.
• Help people who may require special assistance, such as infants, children and the elderly or those with access or functional needs.
• Stay away from downed power lines and report them immediately.
• Watch your animals closely. Keep them under your direct control.

More info:

http://www.ready.gov/thunderstorms-lightning

Hurricane Essentials

by Global Florida | Feb 16, 2018 | Blog | 0 comments

1. Water and Food

Keep at least 1 gallon of water per person per day and make sure you have enough for 3 to 7 days.

Keep enough dry, non-perishable or canned food for 3 to 7 days, make sure to stock up on specific food elderly or very young family members might require.

Remember to pack a can opener, as many people who survived Andrew will tell you, canned foods aren’t much use when you can’t open them.

Also remember to pack any utensils and fuel you might need to cook the foods you’re storing.

Snacks and paper plates are also a good idea.

2. First Aid and Prescription Medication

Keep a two week supply of any prescription medication you need in your kit, as you may not be able to renew your prescription immediately after the storm.

3. Baby items

Remember to pack baby supplies such as diapers, wet naps, pacifiers, lotions and anything else your baby might need for at least the first week after the storm.

4. Personal toiletries

Anything you many need to maintain your personal hygene for the first two weeks after the storm, for example, toothbrushes, toothpaste, feminine hygene products, etc.

5. Blankets, pillows, clothing, etc.

Make sure to pack sufficient clothesfor the members of your family, include rain gear and tough shoes.

Blankets, pillows and similar items may go a long way towards providing comfort, especially in shelters as they are meant to keep you alive, but not necessarily comfortable.

6. Flashlight, radio, batteries and phones

Pack a battery operated radio that can keep you informed of the current weather forecast.

Keep a flashlight in case the power goes out, a spare batteries for both the radio and flashlight.

A fully charged cell phone is also important for emergencies, as well as an extra battery if that’s possible.

For your home, make sure you have acorded phone in case the power goes out and renders cordless phones useless.

7. Important documents and insurance information

Keep important documents such as medical records, insurance policies, social security documents, bank account numbers, etc. in waterproof containers

Take pictures or video of your belongings in case you need to make an insurance claim after the storm.

8. Tools

Pack tools to help you make immediate temporary repairs after a storm.

9. Fuel

Keep your vehicle’s tank filled up as fuel may go quick before a storm and not be immediately available after.

10. Generator

If you have a generator, keep plenty of fuel for it too and never, ever run it indoors.

11. Your pets

Make plans for your pets beforehand, most shelters, hotels and motels won’t take pets, so if you have them make sure you know how to keep them safe before any storm looms over the horizon.

Also, keep an extra supply of water for your pets, as well as pet food, identification documents, a leash and a carrier for them.

12. Communications plan

Plan a communications strategy to let your family know you’re ok after a storm if possible, and to let them know before a storm where you are going and what you’re doing.

13. Cash!

After a storm ATMs may not be working, you should make sure you have plenty of cash money to cover any expenses you may have immediately after a storm hits.

Make sure you have enough for at least a few days after the storm in case power is not immediately restored (and those who went through Wilma a few years ago know it may not be).

14. Entertainment

Another consecuence of the power going out is: no tv, no video games, no computers.

Make sure to pack board games, playing cards, or other type of non-electronic games to entertain your family until things return to normal.

What A Public Adjuster Can Do For You

by Global Florida | Feb 2, 2018 | Blog | 0 comments

Property Damage?
If your property has been damaged by Fire, water, storm, mold, or smoke the public adjuster will file the claim, assess and document the damage, produce the estimates, deal with the insurance company and get you the funds you deserve!

Is It Covered?
Majority of property owners are not aware that most damage that occurs is actually covered by their insurance. Insurance policies have varying degrees of coverage and without an examination of your particular policy and property there is no way to determine the extent of your coverage.
It is up to you to prove the extent of your loss to the Insurance Company. A typical insurance policy is dozens of pages long and contains numerous provisions and stipulations written in technical and legal terms. Additionally, it contains various forms and endorsements which are constantly changing from year to year. Most policy holders have difficulty in understanding all of them. To be compensated for your loss, there are certain conditions which must be satisfied and failure to do so could reduce your settlement amount or even cause your claim to be denied. Processing an insurance claim is never a simple matter. No two claims are the same and all require active experienced management to obtain a fair settlement.

What public adjuster will do for you
•Complete a detailed estimate of what is required to repair or rebuild your premises.
•United Claims Specialists will assist in the preparation of inventories on your damaged personal or business property, contents, and related items. With your help in providing correct documentation, and determining ages and descriptions, Our Public Adjusters can evaluate and determine the approximate current values.
•Prepare your Time Element Losses, such as Business Interruption, Loss of Rents, or Additional Living Expenses.
•Establish a professional line of communications with the insurance adjuster.
•Present estimates, inventories, and other valuations to the insurance adjuster.
•Meet at the site of the loss with the insurance company to adjust your claim.
•Provide experts, if needed, to support the claim.
•Negotiate the best possible settlement.
•Keep you updated of the claims status and ongoing efforts.
•Relieve you of the stress and hardship of having to do it alone.
•Coverage Review of all Insurance Policy Coverage’s, Request certified copy of policy if current one is not available.
•Prepare documentation for Advance Payment Request
•Assemble Claim Preparation Team, Estimator, Engineers, Appraisers, and Umpires.
•Prepare Valuation of Replacement Cost / Depreciation
•Communicate with Emergency Services
•Evaluate Building Damage
•Access Microbial Contamination and compliance protocols.
•Investigate, Scope Photograph and measure the extent of the loss and impact it will have on insured.
•Monitor and expedite the claims process with the insurance carrier to negotiate final recovery to the insured’s satisfaction.
Types of Losses

Fire:
Public adjusters have a wealth of experience in representing clients who have been the victim of home fires and floods. They will personally peruse your insurance policy in order to determine exactly how much you are owed. They will then document the damage and make reasonable and informed repair estimates. Only then will they file a claim and begin negotiations with your insurance provider.

Smoke Damage:
Public adjusters have a wealth of experience in representing clients who have been the victim of home fires and floods. They will personally peruse your insurance policy in order to determine exactly how much you are owed. They will then document the damage and make reasonable and informed repair estimates. Only then will they file a claim and begin negotiations with your insurance provider.

Mold:
The first thing public adjuster will do is look over your policy and determine if mold damage is covered. If it is, we will send an experienced professional to your home to document and assess the damage. They can then begin preparing a claim that contains all of the pertinent evidence. Once the claim is received by your insurance provider and they contact us, they can begin negotiations. Because they work on a contingency basis, his motivation is always to push for the highest possible settlement

Water:
As flood waters rise the first thing a homeowner has to do is get to high ground, once the waters are gone the real impact of the flood is only just beginning. Public adjuster represents you, the policy holder, If you have any question about your insurance policy, it is always best to err on the side of caution. Never submit an insurance claim unless you are absolutely certain you deserve remuneration. Our staff of talented and experienced public adjusters will review your policy and perform an initial investigation.
Information Needed When Filing A Claim.

Try to have as much of the following information as possible available when calling us to file a claim.
To start the claims process, we will need the following information:
Policyholder information: Name of insured, address, phone number, e-mail and policy number Description of loss: Time and date of loss, location of incident, detailed description of damages Authority notification: Please note all authorities notified (fire dept., police, etc.) Emergency Service Companies & Damage Mitigation: Please let us know if you have already contacted any emergency service companies or performed any sort of damage mitigation.

Why Purchase Flood Insurance?

by Global Florida | Jan 28, 2018 | Blog | 0 comments

Since standard homeowners insurance doesn’t cover flooding, it’s important to have protection from the floods associated with hurricanes, tropical storms, heavy rains and other conditions that impact the U.S.

In 1968, Congress created the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) to help provide a means for property owners to financially protect themselves. The NFIP offers flood insurance to homeowners, renters, and business owners if their community participates in the NFIP. Participating communities agree to adopt and enforce ordinances that meet or exceed FEMA requirements to reduce the risk of flooding.

What is a flood:

Anywhere it rains, it can flood. A flood is a general and temporary condition where two or more acres of normally dry land or two or more properties are inundated by water or mudflow. Many conditions can result in a flood: hurricanes, overtopped levees, outdated or clogged drainage systems and rapid accumulation of rainfall.

Just because you haven’t experienced a flood in the past, doesn’t mean you won’t in the future. Flood risk isn’t just based on history; it’s also based on a number of factors: rainfall, river-flow and tidal-surge data, topography, flood-control measures, and changes due to building and development.

As a homeowner or renter, it’s imperative that you protect your property from disasters that may occur in your area. As one of the most likely disasters in the U.S., floods can strike anywhere. Even if your region isn’t considered a likely area for flooding, you may want to consider the option of flood insurance. Flooding can occur following a disaster like a hurricane or a severe storm, and can be the direct result of rising water levels nearby. Because most property insurance specifically excludes floods, it’s best to secure flood insurance in order to keep your property safe no matter what occurs. This type of coverage must be secured through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).

The NFIP was established in 1968 as a way to protect local communities from financial difficulties caused by flooding. Because most private providers prefer to avoid covering for floods, the NFIP is the only way to ensure your home is safe if flooding should occur. Working in partnership with the local communities, the NFIP offers coverage to areas with proper preventative methods in place. Before you can review flood insurance quotes, you’ll need to find out if your area is eligible for coverage.

How to Purchase Flood Insurance:

Like other types of insurance, flood insurance is purchased directly from an agent. In order to offer this type of coverage, the agency must be an active member of the NFIP. A flood insurance comparison will allow you to review flood insurance quotes from the providers in your area that offer this type of coverage. Even though it may be difficult to obtain in some areas, flood insurance is usually quite affordable.

What Causes flooding:

A Storm, A Hurricanes:

Hurricanes and tropical storms can pack a powerful punch, with soaking rain, flying debris, high winds and tidal surge. In addition to causing extensive damage in coastal areas, they often bring flooding hundreds of miles inland with torrential rains and high winds, posing a threat to millions of people who don’t even live on a shoreline. Eight of the ten most expensive Federally-declared disasters have been caused by hurricanes.

Everyone needs to protect themselves from the dangers of Hurricane Season. Most policies take 30 days to go into effect, so the time to prepare is now.

Heave Rains:

Several areas of the country are at heightened risk for flooding due to heavy rains. This excessive amount of rainfall can happen throughout the year, putting your property at risk.

Storms over the Pacific Ocean bring heavy rains to the western United States between the months of November and April. Cresting rivers, backed-up storm drains or saturated ground can cause significant floods across the region during this time.

Flash Floods:

Flash floods are the #1 weather-related killer in the U.S. since they can roll boulders, tear out trees, and destroy buildings and bridges. A flash flood is a rapid flooding of low-lying areas in less than six hours, which is caused by intense rainfall from a thunderstorm or several thunderstorms. Flash floods can also occur from the collapse of a man-made structure or ice dam

Mudflows:

Mudflows are rivers of liquid and flowing mud on the surface of normally dry land, often caused by a combination of brush loss and subsequent heavy rains. Mudflows can develop when water saturates the ground, such as from rapid snowmelt or heavy or long periods of rainfall, causing a thick liquid downhill flow of earth.

Mudflows are different from other earth movements, such as landslides, slope failures, and even moving saturated soil masses in which masses of earth, rock, or debris move down a slope where there is not a flowing characteristic.

Damage from mudflows is covered by flood insurance; damage from landslides and other earth movements is not. Mudslides can also be covered, if defined exactly as the Standard Flood Insurance Policy defines Mudflow.

Flood After Fire:

Many areas in the western states are at an increased flood risk due to wildfires in recent years. After a wildfire, the charred ground where vegetation has burned away cannot easily absorb rainwater, increasing the risk of flooding and mudflows over a number of years. Wildfire-affected areas include states such as Arizona, California, Idaho, Nevada, Oregon and Washington. Properties directly affected by fires and those located below or downstream of burn areas are most at risk.

Protect Your Home and Yourself

by Global Florida | Jan 28, 2018 | Blog | 0 comments

 Insurance:

Home insurance, also commonly called hazard insurance or homeowner’s insurance (often abbreviated in the real estate industry as HOI), is the type of property insurance that covers private homes. It is an insurance policy that combines various personal insurance protections, which can include losses occurring to one’s home, its contents, loss of its use (additional living expenses), or loss of other personal possessions of the homeowner, as well as liability insurance for accidents that may happen at the home or at the hands of the homeowner within the policy territory. It requires that at least one of the named insured’s occupies the home. The dwelling policy (DP) is similar, but used for residences which don’t qualify for various reasons, such as vacancy/non-occupancy, seasonal/secondary residence, or age.

It’s multiple-line insurance, meaning that it includes both property insurance and liability coverage, with an indivisible premium, meaning that a single premium is paid for all risks. Standard forms divide coverage into several categories, and the coverage provided is typically a percentage of Coverage A, which is coverage for the main dwelling.

The cost of homeowner’s insurance often depends on what it would cost to replace the house and which additional riders—additional items to be insured—are attached to the policy. The insurance policy itself is a lengthy contract, and names what will and what will not be paid in the case of various events. Typically, claims due to floods or war (whose definition typically includes a nuclear explosion from any source), amongst other standard exclusions (like termites), are excluded. Special insurance can be purchased for these possibilities, including flood insurance. Insurance should be adjusted to reflect replacement cost, usually upon application of an inflation factor or a cost index.

The home insurance policy is usually a term contract—a contract that is in effect for a fixed period of time. The payment the insured makes to the insurer is called the premium. The insured must pay the insurer the premium each term. Most insurers charge a lower premium if it appears less likely the home will be damaged or destroyed: for example, if the house is situated next to a fire station or is equipped with fire sprinklers and fire alarms; if the house exhibits wind mitigation measures, such as hurricane shutters; or if the house has a security system and has insurer-approved locks installed. Perpetual insurance, a type of home insurance without a fixed term, can also be obtained in certain areas.

In the United States, most home buyers borrow money in the form of a mortgage loan, and the mortgage lender always requires that the buyer purchase homeowner’s insurance as a condition of the loan, in order to protect the bank if the home were to be destroyed. Anyone with an insurable interest in the property should be listed on the policy. In some cases the mortgagee will waive the need for the mortgagor to carry homeowner’s insurance if the value of the land exceeds the amount of the mortgage balance. In a case like this even the total destruction of any buildings would not affect the ability of the lender to be able to foreclose and recover the full amount of the loan.

Home insurance in the United States may differ from other countries; for example, in Britain, subsidence and subsequent foundation failure is usually covered under an insurance policy. United States insurance companies used to offer foundation insurance, which was reduced to coverage for damage due to leaks, and finally eliminated altogether.

Types of Policies:

Currently, the ISO has seven standardized homeowners insurance forms in general use:

HO1 – Basic Form Homeowner Policy A basic policy form that provides coverage on a home against 11 listed perils; contents are generally included in this type of coverage, but must be explicitly enumerated. The perils include fire or lightning, windstorm or hail, vandalism or malicious mischief, theft, damage from vehicles and aircraft, explosion riot or civil commotion, glass breakage, smoke, volcanic eruption, and personal liability. Exceptions include floods, earthquakes. Most states no longer offer this type of coverage.

HO2 – Broad Form Homeowner Policy A more advanced form that provides coverage on a home against 17 listed perils (including all 11 on the HO1). The coverage is usually a “named perils” policy, which lists the events that would be covered.

HO3 – Special Form Homeowner Policy The typical, most comprehensive form used for single-family homes. The policy provides “all risk” coverage on the home with some perils excluded, such as earthquake and flood. Contents are covered on a named peril basis. (Note: “All Risk” is poorly termed as it is essentially named exclusions (if it is not specifically excluded, it is covered))

HO4 – Renter’s Insurance The “Tenants” form is for renters. It covers personal property against the same perils as the contents portion of the HO2 or HO3. An HO4 generally also includes liability coverage for personal injury or property damage inflicted on others.

HO5 – Premier Homeowner Policy Covers the same as HO3 plus more. On this policy the contents are covered on an open peril basis, therefore as long as the cause of loss is not specifically excluded in the policy it will be covered for that cause of loss. (can also be achieved by endorsing an HO15 to the HO3)

HO6 – Condominium Policy The form for condominium owners. HO8 – Older Houses The “Modified Coverage” form is for the owner-occupied older home whose replacement cost far exceeds the property’s market value.

Coverage classifications:

For each policy, there are typically 5 classifications of coverage. These are based on standard Insurance Services Office or American Association of Insurance Services forms.

Section I — Property Coverages Coverage A – Dwelling Covers the value of the dwelling itself (not including the land). Typically, a coinsurance clause states that as long as the dwelling is insured to 80% of actual value, losses will be adjusted at replacement cost, up to the policy limits. This is in place to give a buffer against inflation. HO-4 (renter’s insurance) typically has no Coverage A, although it has additional coverages for improvements.

Coverage B – Other Structures Covers other structure around the property which are not used for business, except as a private garage. Typically limited at 10% to 20% of the Coverage A, with additional amounts available by endorsement.

Coverage C – Personal Property Covers personal property, with limits for the theft and loss of particular classes of items (e.g., $200 for money, banknotes, bullion, coins, medals, etc.). Typically 50 to 70% of coverage A is required for contents, which means that consumers may pay for much more insurance than necessary. This has led to some calls for more choice.

Coverage D – Loss of Use/Additional Living Expenses Covers expenses associated with additional living expenses (i.e. rental expenses) and fair rental value, if part of the residence was rented, however only the rental income for the actual rent of the space not services provided such as utilities.

Additional Coverages Covers a variety of expenses such as debris removal, reasonable repairs, damage to trees and shrubs for certain named perils (excluding the most common causes of damage, wind and ice), fire department changes, removal of property, credit card / identity theft charges, loss assessment, collapse, landlord’s furnishing, and some building additions. These vary depending upon the form.

Exclusions:

In an open perils policy, specific exclusions will be stated in this section. These generally include earth movement, water damage, power failure, neglect, war, nuclear hazard, septic tank back-up expenses, intentional loss, and concurrent causation (for HO-3).

Climate Change Debate

by Global Florida | Jan 15, 2018 | Blog | 0 comments

Climate scientist Michael Oppenheimer stood along the Hudson River and watched his research come to life as Hurricane Sandy blew through New York.

Just eight months earlier, the Princeton University professor reported that what used to be once-in-a-century devastating floods in New York City would soon happen every three to 20 years. He blamed global warming for pushing up sea levels and changing hurricane patterns.

New York “is now highly vulnerable to extreme hurricane-surge flooding,” he wrote.

For more than a dozen years, Oppenheimer and other climate scientists have been warning about the risk for big storms and serious flooding in New York. A 2000 federal report about global warming’s effect on the United States warned specifically of that possibility.

Still, they say it’s unfair to blame climate change for Sandy and the destruction it left behind. They cautioned that they cannot yet conclusively link a single storm to global warming, and any connection is not as clear and simple as environmental activists might contend.

“The ingredients of this storm seem a little bit cooked by climate change, but the overall storm is difficult to attribute to global warming,” Canada’s University of Victoria climate scientist Andrew Weaver said.

Some individual parts of Sandy and its wrath seem to be influenced by climate change, several climate scientists said.

First, there’s sea level rise. Water levels around New York are a nearly a foot higher than they were 100 years ago, said Penn State University climate scientist Michael Mann.

Add to that the temperature of the Atlantic Ocean, which is about 2 degrees warmer on average than a century ago, said Katharine Hayhoe, a climate scientist at Texas Tech University. Warm water fuels hurricanes.

And Sandy zipped north along a warmer-than-normal Gulf Stream that travels from the Caribbean to Ireland, said Jeff Masters, meteorology director for the private service Weather Underground.

Meteorologists are also noticing more hurricanes late in the season and even after the season. A 2008 study said the Atlantic hurricane season seems to be starting earlier and lasting longer but found no explicit link to global warming. Normally there are 11 named Atlantic storms. The past two years have seen 19 and 18 named storms. This year, with one month to go, there are 19.

After years of disagreement, climate scientists and hurricane experts have concluded that as the climate warms, there will be fewer total hurricanes. But those storms that do develop will be stronger and wetter.

Sandy took an unprecedented sharp left turn into New Jersey. Usually storms keep heading north and turn east harmlessly out to sea. But a strong ridge of high pressure centered over Greenland blocked Sandy from going north or east, according to the National Hurricane Center.

Jennifer Francis of Rutgers University, an expert in how a warming Arctic affects extreme weather patterns, said recent warming in the Arctic may have played a role in enlarging or prolonging that high pressure area. But she cautioned it’s not clear whether the warming really had that influence on Sandy.

While components of Sandy seem connected to global warming, “mostly it’s natural, I’d say it’s 80, 90 percent natural,” said Gerald North, a climate professor at Texas A&M University. “These things do happen, like the drought. It’s a natural thing.”

On Tuesday, both New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg and Gov. Andrew Cuomo said they couldn’t help but notice that extreme events like Sandy are causing them more and more trouble.

“What is clear is that the storms that we’ve experienced in the last year or so, around this country and around the world, are much more severe than before,” Bloomberg said. “Whether that’s global warming or what, I don’t know. But we’ll have to address those issues.”

Cuomo called the changes “a new reality.”

“Anyone who says that there’s not a dramatic change in weather patterns I think is denying reality,” Cuomo said. “I told the president the other day: ‘We have a 100-year flood every two years now.'”