Fast, furious and indiscriminate, tornadoes can cause irreparable damage in a matter of minutes – killing and injuring many in the U.S. and accounting for approximately $400 million in damages each year. If you live in an area that has a history of tornadoes, it’s important to have the right insurance coverage, as well as a safety plan in place allowing you to take immediate action when a tornado watch or warning is issued.

Understand your tornado insurance coverage
There’s no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to the best type of homeowners policy for tornado damage. Homeowners insurance generally covers tornado damage, but some policies might not cover damage from wind or hail, which often accompanies tornadoes. Carefully review your policy and make any necessary adjustments, such as raising the limits so that you’ll be protected if your home is severely impacted. Likewise, damage caused by flooding that can result from tornadoes isn’t typically covered, so consider purchasing a separate flood insurance policy.

If you rent your home, protect your personal belongings by purchasing renters insurance. Both homeowners and renters should also consider purchasing Replacement Cost Value (RCV) Insurance, which reimburses you for your lost or damaged items rather than compensating you based on the items’ depreciated value. To best protect your vehicle, obtain a comprehensive auto policy because liability insurance alone will not cover the potential costly auto repairs that could result from a tornado.

Have a safety plan in place
The National Weather Service “StormReady” program can help you prepare – before, during, and after a tornado. Flying debris causes the majority of tornado-related deaths and injuries. Keep yourself and your family safe from this danger by having a plan in place for where to meet for immediate shelter. A basement or a lower inside room without windows is the safest choice. Many casualties result from staying in a mobile home, so if you live in one, relocate to an alternative spot such as a nearby building with a basement. Be sure to place an emergency kit in the designated room ahead of time.

Additionally, run practice drills with your family to ensure everyone knows how to respond in the event of a tornado. If you’re in a car or outdoors and are unable to get to a stable structure in time, find lower ground such as a ditch and cover your head and neck.

Tornadoes shouldn’t be taken lightly, but you can minimize danger and losses by implementing safety procedures for you and your family, in addition to sufficient tornado insurance protection for your home and vehicle. Contact your HUB broker to make sure you’ve got the right coverage.