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GETTING

READY

Are you ready? Do you have a plan?

Planning for your recovery before an earthquake occurs.

Did you know earthquakes are not covered under your regular homeowners insurance policy? Take these steps to learn more about earthquakes and plan for your family's recovery.

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If a major earthquake happens, are you prepared?

Although your state may not immediately come to mind when thinking about earthquakes, a major fault line runs through the Midwest. A study by the U.S. Geological Survey estimates the probability of a magnitude 7.5 or greater earthquake in the New Madrid seismic zone over the next 50 years is 7-10 percent. The probability of an earthquake exceeding magnitude 6 over the same period is 25-40 percent. A joint assessment by the Mid-America Earthquake Center of the University of Illinois and the Federal Emergency Management Agency predicts the New Madrid event could constitute the highest total economic loss of any natural disaster in U.S. history.

No matter what type of disaster you face, it is critical that every family has a plan for both readiness and financial recovery following that event. Whatever that plan may be, it’s important for consumers to know about what options they may have and what issues need to be considered to adequately prepare for an earthquake. Your homeowners policy does not cover damage from an earthquakeEarthquake coverage must be purchased as separate coverage, called an "endorsement" or as a stand-alone policy. Check with your insurance agent to see if you have this coverage in place.

Are you ready? Do you have a plan? If not, you may want to explore the information provided to determine what you need in order to be prepared.

Informational PDFs

NAIC Report

Preparedness Comic Book

Insurance Shopping Guide

Missouri DCI Earthquake Insurance Report

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Percentage of residences in the New Madrid area of Missouri with earthquake insurance.

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U.S. Market for Earthquake Insurance

How To Prepare

Earthquakes occur with no warning, that is why it is important to prepare. Follow these tips and sign up for the ShakeOut earthquake drill. The drill occurs annually on the third Thursday of October.

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Earthquake FAQ

This information is provided as a collaborative effort among eight member states and two associate states with the Central United States Earthquake Consortium (CUSEC), as well as the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC). Originally established by the Missouri Department of Commerce (DCI) & Insurance and the Missouri State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA).

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