Affordable Insurance Coverage in PA & MD: Insurance 101

Storm Center: Hurricane and Wind Preparedness and Insurance Help

Written by Admin | 3/14/16 4:00 AM

Prepare for hurricanes and other severe wind storms before they happen.

Wind storms, such as hurricanes, are usually forecast hours or days before the storm hits. This allows some time for planning to make sure you, your family, and your property remain safe. But components of these storms, such as flash floods and tornadoes, cannot be forecast in advance. Take time now to plan for what you'll do when unexpected severe weather strikes. The information on this page is intended to help you prepare for hurricanes and other wind storms in advance, when possible, and also provides links to helpful resources you might need in the unfortunate case of a severe weather-related disaster.  

Flood Insurance

A homeowners insurance policy DOES NOT cover damage caused by a flood, other than that associated with water and/or sewer backup, and only then if you have appropriate coverage in place before a loss occurs. Visit www.FloodSmart.gov, the official site of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), to access the resources needed to determine if your residence is in a flood zone and to find an agent near you that offers flood insurance. You can also visit  https://www.mutualbenefitgroup.com/home-insurance/optionalspecialty-coverages/ to learn more about water or sewer backup coverage and other specialty coverages.  

Need to report a claim? We're ready to help, 24/7.

If you have an insurance claim, notify your independent insurance agent or Mutual Benefit as quickly as possible. Call your agent directly, or dial the appropriate number below 24 hours a day, seven days a week:
  • Auto, home, or business claim: 1-800-290-6361

  • Auto glass claim: 1-800-232-8315

Click on the following link to use our Find An Agent locator to quickly find your agent's phone number. https://www.mutualbenefitgroup.com/agent-locator/ For more information on the claims process, visit the Claims page on our Web site.  

Latest Storm Warnings and Updates

  • Visit the National Oceanic and Atmosphere Administration (NOAA)

Disaster Information

  • Visit the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Web site to monitor conditions in your area

Pennsylvania Residents

  • View state-wide conditions from the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency (PEMA)

Maryland Residents

 

How to Care for Your Home and Property Before and After a Hurricane or Other Wind Storm

Click on a topic below to learn more about how to protect yourself, your family, and your property--before, during, and after a storm. Avoid Scams After the Storm - Don't become a victim of high-pressured sales tactics by unscrupulous contractors who take advantage of people after a severe weather event. Disaster Preparedness - Create an emergency kit, an evacuation plan, and stay informed before, during, and after the storm. Emergency Supply Kit for Your Auto - Don't be caught off guard without emergency supply materials in your auto. Here's what every well-prepared driver should keep in a vehicle. Family Communications Plan During Disaster - Your family might not be together when disaster strikes. Use "ICE" contacts in cell phones and personal contact cards to help family members find each other in the event of an emergency. Flood Preparation - If your house is in a flood-prone zone, prepare before the rains come down. Generator Safety - Generators can help keep your family safe and comfortable during power outages. But, they can also be deadly if you do not operate them properly. Home Emergency Supply Kit - Create an emergency supply kit for your family in case severe weather or other emergencies keep you confined to your home. Hurricane Preparedness - Know what to do if a hurricane is headed your way. Pet Safety In Disasters - Plan now so you can keep your pet safe in the event of an emergency. Selecting a Roofing Professional - It's not everyday you purchase a new roof for your house. Make sure you choose a reputable roofing professional. Tornado Preparedness - There is usually not much time to act if a tornado is headed your way. Take time now to develop an emergency plan for your household.