Be Ready for Anything: Encharter’s National Preparedness Month Tips

September is National Preparedness Month – Are You Ready?

At Encharter, we know that life can change in an instant. Whether it’s a flood, wildfire, severe storm, or unexpected accident, being prepared is the best defense. National Preparedness Month is the perfect time to check your emergency plans—and your insurance coverage—to ensure you’re truly protected. If you have any questions, contact our office at 413.475.7283 or complete our online quote form today!

🌎 Why Preparedness Matters

In the past year, we’ve seen extreme weather and disasters affect millions across the country. While we can’t always prevent emergencies, we can be ready for them—and that’s where preparation and insurance work hand-in-hand.

This month, we’re sharing ways to prepare for the unexpected and how your insurance coverage—home, auto, and business—can help you recover faster and with fewer financial setbacks.

🏠 Home Insurance: Protecting Your Property and Peace of Mind

Your home is one of your biggest investments. Be sure it’s ready for anything:

✔️ What to Do Now:

• Review your homeowners or renters policy to confirm what’s covered (e.g., fire, theft, certain weather events).

• Know what isn’t covered—like flood or earthquake damage—and consider supplemental policies if needed.

• Create a home inventory: photos, serial numbers, receipts, and estimated values for key items.

Did You Know?
Flood damage is not included in most standard home insurance policies. If you live in a flood-prone area, ask us about flood insurance options to protect your assets.

🚗 Auto Insurance: Stay Covered When You’re On the Road

Emergencies can strike while you’re driving too—whether it’s a major storm or a fender bender during an evacuation.

✔️ What to Do Now:

• Check your coverage for comprehensive and collision insurance—especially if you live in areas prone to hail, flooding, or wildfire.

• Keep emergency supplies in your vehicle (jumper cables, first aid kit, flashlight, bottled water).

• Know how to file a claim and keep your insurance information accessible, our online portal is a great place to have 24/7 access to your insurance.

Tip: If your vehicle is damaged during a natural disaster, comprehensive coverage can help pay for repairs or replacement.

🏢 Business Insurance: Prepare to Protect Your Livelihood

Your business keeps your livelihood going—and disasters can put that at risk if you’re not prepared.

✔️ What to Do Now:

• Review your commercial property, liability, and business auto insurance. Do you need flood insurance?

• Create a business continuity plan to minimize downtime in the event of a disaster.

Consider This:
Commercial Property Insurance can protect your property from physical damage.  Fire, flood, or accidental damage are unfortunate incidents that could not only damage or destroy your property but could also devastate your business. Additionally, insurance may cover any associated losses—such as lost income—that are caused because part or all of your business is temporarily unable to operate.

🧭 5 Steps for Emergency Preparedness (Everyone Should Take)

Whether you’re at home, on the road, or running a business, these simple actions can make a big difference:

1. Make a Plan: Know how you’ll communicate, where you’ll go, and what you’ll do in an emergency.

2. Build a Kit: Stock up on essentials—water, food, flashlights, meds, chargers, and important documents.

3. Stay Informed: Sign up for local alerts and weather updates from trusted sources.

4. Back Up Important Info: Digitize key documents and insurance records.

5. Review Your Insurance: Contact your agent to make sure you have the right coverage in place.

🏁 Let Us Help You Prepare

At Encharter, we’re more than just your insurance agency—we’re your partner in protection. This National Preparedness Month, let’s work together to make sure you’re covered.

Chat with an Encharter agent about your insurance today:
413.475.7283
Complete our online quote form

Sources:
https://encharter.com/blog/developing-a-plan-during-national-preparedness-month/
https://www.ncei.noaa.gov/access/billions/
https://www.ready.gov/september
https://content.naic.org/consumer/home-inventory