Monday, March 21, 2011
Oklahoma City – The start of spring traditionally marks the start of severe weather season and an increased risked risk of property damage from wind, rain, hail, floods and tornadoes, Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John Doak reminded Oklahomans on Tuesday.
"Records show that two-thirds of Oklahoma’s tornadoes occur from March to May," Doak said. "While tornadoes may have the highest potential for significant widespread damage, the high winds, heavy rains and flooding that often accompanies spring storms can cause great damage to personal and business property."
Doak said one of the first steps to prepare for spring storms is to conduct an insurance checkup to make certain an individual or business has the right coverage and for the right amounts.
"Often, people don’t think much about their insurance policies once they have purchased them," Doak explained, "but things can change. Your home or business’ value may have increased or maybe you have added on. You may have purchased new items for your home. These things can increase your insurance needs, so it important to check to see that you have the right coverage at the proper level for your home or business."
Doak said three questions should be asked:
(For a more detail about these issues, please see Ask and Answer These Questions in Your Annual Insurance Checkup attached)
"Your insurance agent or company will be happy to discuss your policy with you and make recommendations for changes in your coverage," Doak said.
The Insurance Commissioner also reminded Oklahomans to take steps to protect their personal safety as the severe storm season nears.
"The Oklahoma Office of Emergency Management suggests that families, individuals and businesses create an emergency plan," Doak said. "Families should also prepare an emergency supply kit and everyone should identify the safest places to go at home and work in the event of severe weather."
More information on preparing before an emergency strikes can be found on the Office of Emergency Management’s website: www.oem.ok.gov.
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ABOUT THE OKLAHOMA INSURANCE DEPARTMENT
The Oklahoma Insurance Department, an agency of the State of Oklahoma, is responsible for the education and protection of the insurance-buying public and for oversight of the insurance industry in the state.
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For more information contact:
Shawn Ashley
(405) 521-4525
(405) 568-6004
e-mail: shawn.ashley@oid.ok.gov