How to prepare for natural disasters

Natural disasters like earthquakes, typhoons, and floods are hard to predict and are out of our control. They can have devastating effects, but these can be reducedthrough preventive measures.

Here are some tips on how to prepare early and properly for natural calamities:

Prepare an emergency kit

Having an emergency kit ready is an important first step in preparing for unforeseen circumstances. Make sure the kit has the basic necessities to sustain you and your family (including pets) during severe calamities. This includes a gallon of water per person and canned goods that will last for at least three days. Make sure you have flashlights and extra batteries, a first aid kit, seven-day supply of medicines, and multi-purpose tools such as a screwdriver and can opener. Keep your mobile phones and power banks fully charged in case of power outage. Include family and emergency contact information, copies of personal documents, extra cash, and blankets in your emergency kit.

Havean emergency plan with your family

Some disasters might require you to leave your home. Have an emergency plan thatshows emergency exits in your house for easy access. Practice using the exitswith the family members, especially children. Identify a meeting place with your family in case you get separated. Learn about potential hazardsin your community, as well as its evacuation procedures so you know where to go in case you are away when disaster strikes.

Be informed

Many medical emergencies can occur during disasters and medical help may not be immediately available. It is important to know how to handle basic emergency situations.Do some research and read up on how to cope with emergencies. It is also a good idea to take a first-aid class, which some communities offer for free. 

Get insurance for your family

Insurance covers you and your family against unplannedexpenses arising from disasters like earthquakes, typhoons, floods, and fire. AXA Philippines’ Family Protection Package is a good example of an insurance product designed to help families during natural calamities. The package includes Personal Accident Insurance with coverage of up to P50,000, Fire Insurance with coverage of up to P150,000 and Earthquake, Typhoon, and Flood Insurance with coverage of up to P50,000.

Have the right game plan in case of an emergency. Talk to an AXA agent on the best insurance coverage for your family.

AXA Philippines is one of the largest and fastest-growing life insurance companies in the country, offering financial security to more than one million individuals through its group and individual life insurance products, and general insurance products covering home, motor, and business through its subsidiary Charter Ping An.For more information, visit www.axa.com.ph.