Alabama Department of Insurance

Home Inventory

Review your insurance coverage

• Auto
• Life
• Home
• Flood

Have a Disaster Kit / “Go Bag” prepared with the following items:

• 3-day supply of non-perishable items
• Can opener
• First aid kit
• Sleeping bag or warm blanket for every family member
• Change of clothes for 3 days and sturdy shoes
• Matches or lighter in waterproof container
• Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap
• Water
• Battery operated radio with extra batteries and NOAA weather radio
• Cellphone charger and solar charger
• Whistle to get help
• Local maps
• Pet supplies:
  • Treats
  • Dog food
  • Bowls
• Baby supplies:
  • Formula, diapers, blankets, or stuffed animals.
• Books, games, etc.
• Cash
• Vital records:
  • Birth certificate
  • Marriage certificate
  • Driver’s license, passport, SS card, other
• Home ownership or rental agreement
• Vehicle information
• Financial documents
• Insurance policies
• Tax statements

To Do:

• Sign up for your community’s warning system
• Practice going to a safe shelter (they can be found here)
• Become familiar with your evacuation zone
• Keep important documents in a safe place
• Declutter drains and gutters
• Install check valves in plumbing to prevent backups
• Test family communication plan
• Plan with neighbors
• Train CPR and basic first aid
• Clear any possible items in your yard that can fly away or become dangerous
• Secure loose shutters and gutters
• Secure outside items that may fly away
• Trim tree branches away from your house and power lines
• Secure loose items inside your home

A Catastrophe Savings Account (CSA) is a special savings account designed to help you prepare financially for disasters. It allows you to set aside funds specifically for emergencies and disaster-related expenses.

Benefits of a Catastrophe Savings Account:

• Tax advantages may apply depending on your state regulations.
• Funds can be used for deductibles, repairs, temporary housing, and other disaster-related costs.
• Helps ensure you have accessible funds when disaster strikes, reducing financial stress.
• Encourages disciplined savings specifically for disaster preparedness.

How to Start a Catastrophe Savings Account:

• Contact your bank or credit union to inquire about setting up a CSA.
• Determine a monthly savings goal based on your potential risks and expenses.
• Automate transfers into your CSA to build funds steadily.
• Keep the account separate from your regular savings to avoid using the funds for non-disaster expenses.

For More Information:

• Catastrophic Savings Account FAQ
• ACT12-0413

Additional Tips:

• Review your savings and insurance coverage regularly to adjust your CSA contributions.
• Combine your CSA with other financial preparedness strategies like emergency funds and insurance.

The Office of Risk and Resilience (ORR) within the Alabama Department of Insurance works to protect insurance markets and consumers through mitigation programs against catastrophic storms.

Office of Risk and Resilience (ORR)

ORR develops programs and partnerships to strengthen homes and reduce storm damage risk in Alabama. Click Here.

Grant Programs

Strengthen Alabama Homes (SAH) provides grants to eligible residents in select counties for residential wind mitigation on existing owner-occupied single-family homes.

For more information or to apply, visit the SAH website.

What is a Tornado?

Tornadoes are violently rotating columns of air that extend from a thunderstorm to the ground. Tornadoes can happen anywhere at any time. Peak tornado season in Alabama is from March to May.

Hazards caused by Tornadoes

• Flash Flooding.
  • Intense rainbands & runoff: Tornadoes are often accompanied by heavy rainfall, which can trigger flash flooding in nearby low‑lying or saturated areas. These floods can wash out roads, clog culverts, and strand residents unexpectedly.
  • Road hazards: Travel is dangerous immediately post‑storm—roads may be blocked by debris or backed‑up water. Legal experts urge avoiding driving unless essential, as debris and hidden floodwaters can cause accidents.
• Landslides.
  • Saturated slopes: While less common in Alabama than mountainous regions, heavy rains from tornadic thunderstorms can destabilize slopes—especially near cutbanks or riverbanks—leading to mud or debris slides in vulnerable areas.
  • Road embankments: Steep highways, rural roads, or embankments may shift or collapse after flooding rains. Residents should heed closures and avoid unstable slopes until inspected.
• Gas Leaks or Generator Misuse and Overloaded Circuits.
  • Gas leaks: Damaged homes and utility lines can leak natural gas—CO & EMA recommend evacuating, avoiding ignition sources, and calling your gas provider or 911 immediately.
  • Generator misuse: Portable generators must be placed 20 ft from structures, never indoors or near vents, and use GFCI/three‑prong cords. Risks include CO poisoning, fire, electric shock and backfeeding.
  • Overloaded circuits: Power surges and improper extension‑cord use while connecting appliances can overload wiring—copying official generator guidelines (heavy‑duty cords, limit appliance loads, transfer switch use) is essential.
• Fallen Trees and Power Lines.
  • Downed lines: After a tornado, downed or sagging power lines are a major threat. Even if visibly inactive, they can be energized. Stay at least 20 ft away and report to utility companies.
  • Fallen trees: Blown‑over trees can crush homes, block roads, and bring power lines down. Chainsaw use for cleanup should follow proper PPE and keep at least two tree‑lengths distance from others.

How Can You Prepare for a Tornado?

• Sign-up for your communities early warning system.
• Identify and practice going to your safe place. A basement or storm shelter is ideal. If you do not have access to one the next best protection is a small interior windowless room in the bottom floor of your house.
• Pay attention to weather reports.
• Protect yourself by covering your head and neck with your arms and staying low.

What Should You Do When It’s Safe?

• Pay attention to EAS, NOAA, and local authorities for updated information.
• Saty clear of fallen powerlines or broken utility lines.
• Take photos of any damage before starting cleanup. Save receipts for repairs and file insurance claims as soon as possible. Wear protective gear when cleaning debris or moldy items.
• If your home was flooded, throw out anything that can’t be disinfected. Keep your emergency kit handy, as services may still be limited.
• Be aware of unstable buildings or loose tree branches that could fall.

More Information

• Tornadoes | Ready.gov
• Be Prepared for a Tornado
• Tornadoes| Alabama Power

What is a Hurricane?

A hurricane is a powerful tropical storm that forms over warm ocean waters and brings strong winds, heavy rain, and dangerous storm surges. These storms can be hundreds of miles wide and last for days, causing widespread damage when they make landfall. Alabama, especially its coastal areas, is vulnerable to hurricanes during the Atlantic hurricane season (June 1 to November 30).

Hazards caused by Hurricanes

• Flooding
  • Inland flooding: Hurricanes bring heavy rains—often 6+ inches—that lead to flash and river flooding statewide, even far inland from the coast.
  • Urban & road flooding: Rapid runoff can submerge roads, wash out culverts, and trap drivers. Turn Around Don’t Drown warnings are common.
• Storm Surge
  • Coastal inundation: Storm surge—water pushed ashore by winds—poses the greatest life/property threat along Alabama’s coast. Surges of 8–13 ft occurred during Ivan and Georges, flooding Dauphin Island and Mobile Bay Causeway.
  • Infrastructure damage: Surge floods bridges, marinas, roads, and beachfront homes, often requiring extensive structural repair.
• High Winds
  • Sustained & gusty winds: Even inland, winds of 39–74 mph are common, with gusts over 100 mph on islands like Dauphin Island during storms like Elena.
  • Debris & structural damage: High winds can topple trees, down power lines, damage roofs, carports, mobile homes, and exacerbate coastal erosion.
• Tornadoes
  • Embedded twisters: Rainband storms frequently produce tornadoes, often short-lived but numerous—Hurricane Ivan spawned over 20 in Alabama, and even weak tropical systems produce tornado outbreaks.
  • Rapid formation: Tornadoes from hurricanes form quickly, are rain-wrapped, and may offer little warning—prompting NWS to advise taking cover in sturdy, interior zones immediately.

How Should You Prepare?

• If you are unable or unwilling to travel to a shelter, it is recommended to take shelter in a small, windowless room on the lowest level of your home, preferably one that is anchored to the foundation, such as a bathroom.
• Board up windows, reinforce doors, secure outdoor furniture, and check your roof and gutters. Know how to safely shut off utilities like gas, electricity, and water.
• Decide how your family or community will communicate and where to meet if separated. Include plans for pets, elderly family members, and those with special needs.
• Ensure that your phone, cordless lamps and other essentials that rely on battery are fully charged in case of losing power.

What Steps Should You Take to Stay Safe?

• After the storm passes, continue listening to local authorities for updates and only return home when it’s declared safe. Avoid floodwaters, downed power lines, and damaged buildings.
• Check on neighbors, especially the elderly or those with special needs. Use generators outdoors only, away from windows, to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
• Take photos of any damage before starting cleanup. Save receipts for repairs and file insurance claims as soon as possible. Wear protective gear when cleaning debris or moldy items.
• If your home was flooded, throw out anything that can’t be disinfected. Keep your emergency kit handy, as services may still be limited.
• Hurricanes can be emotionally overwhelming, talk to loved ones and seek support if needed. When safe, review your preparedness plan and update it for next time.

More Information

• Hurricanes | Ready.gov
• The National Flood Insurance Program

What are Strong Winds and Hail?

Strong winds and hailstorms are severe weather events that can develop during thunderstorms. Wind gusts can reach speeds of over 60 mph, capable of knocking down trees, power lines, and damaging roofs and vehicles. Hail forms when powerful updrafts in a storm carry water droplets into extremely cold areas of the atmosphere, creating ice stones that fall to the ground, sometimes as large as baseballs. In Alabama, strong winds and hail are common during spring and summer months but can occur year-round. These storms often arrive with little warning and can cause serious property damage and personal injury.

Hazards caused by strong winds

• Downed power lines
  • Hidden live wires: Strong winds and hail storms have knocked down power lines, these may still be energized. Residents are urged to stay at least 20 ft away and report them immediately to utility companies.
  • Extended outages: Events have disrupted service for thousands.
• Fallen trees or limbs
  • Road hazards: Fallen trees blocking roads and hitting structures. Clean‑up crews are managing widespread debris.
  • Property damage: Trees have damaged homes, vehicles, and roofs.
• Roof and structural damage
  • Shingle/roof loss: Hail and gusts over 50–60 mph have shredded shingles and stripped portions of roofs—especially mobile homes and outbuildings.
  • Building integrity: Wind-driven hail dents siding, gutters, and windows—structures should be inspected for leaks or hidden damage before reentry.
• Flash flooding from rain
  • Quick accumulation: Heavy rainfall accompanying storms can lead to yard and road flooding, stalling vehicles and blocking travel.
  • Hidden dangers: Standing water may conceal downed lines, debris, or road erosion—avoid driving through it and heed “Turn Around, Don’t Drown” warnings.

How Can You Prepare for Strong Winds or Hail?

• If a severe thunderstorm warning is issued and you cannot or choose not to evacuate, take shelter in a small, windowless interior room on the lowest floor of your home such as a bathroom or closet. Avoid rooms with skylights or large windows, as hail and wind can easily shatter glass.
• Secure or bring inside any outdoor furniture, grills, potted plants, or decorations that could become dangerous projectiles in high winds. Close and latch all windows and doors. If time allows, cover windows with plywood or storm shutters for added protection.
• Inspect your roof, gutters, and siding regularly, especially before storm season. Make any needed repairs to prevent wind or hail from worsening existing damage.
• Create a family emergency communication plan and designate a meeting place if you become separated. Account for pets, seniors, and anyone with medical or mobility challenges.
• Charge all essential devices in advance phones, flashlights, and battery-powered radios so you’re prepared for potential power outages.

What Should You Do Once the Danger Passes?

• After strong winds or hail, watch out for broken glass, damaged roofs, and downed power lines. Stay indoors until authorities say it’s safe. Check on neighbors and avoid using damaged electrical equipment.
• Document damage with photos before cleanup. Save receipts for repairs and contact your insurance company promptly. Wear gloves and sturdy shoes when clearing debris.
• If your home has roof damage, cover exposed areas temporarily to prevent water leaks. Stay alert for possible severe weather following the event.

More Information

• Severe Weather | Ready.gov
• Before a High Wind Event

What is a Flood?

Flooding is the overflow of water onto land that is normally dry. It can happen quickly within minutes or hours of heavy rain or more gradually, as rivers or streams rise over time. In Alabama, floods often occur during severe thunderstorms, hurricanes, or when tropical systems bring extended periods of rain. Low-lying areas, creeks, and urban drainage systems are especially vulnerable. Floodwaters can cause widespread property damage, disrupt transportation, and pose serious health and safety risks. Even a few inches of water can be dangerous.

Hazards Following a Flood

• Contaminated Water.
  • Private Wells: Floodwaters often carry sewage, chemicals, and pathogens that can contaminate wells. Alabama’s Department of Public Health (ADHP) warns: any well submerged should be assumed contaminated and disinfected and tested before use.
  • Boil advisories: Until lab tests confirm safety, residents must boil or use bottled water for drinking, cooking, or even brushing teeth.
  • Septic systems: Saturated septic fields may back up or overflow. ADPH advises limiting water use and pumping out systems if needed.
• Structural Damage to Buildings.
  • Foundation and Framing: Floodwaters can weaken load-bearing walls, floors, and foundations. Alabama EMA covers reimbursement for structural repairs (ceilings, walls, floors, even foundations) under its Disaster Recovery Fund for flood damage.
  • Building Inspections: After a flood, it is recommended a local building inspector assess structural, electrical, and gas safety before reentry.
  • Debris and Mold: Rapid drying (within 24–48 hrs) and mold removal (using bleach solutions, protective gear) are crucial to avoid lingering damage and structural decay.
• Displaced Wildlife or Insects.
  • Wild animals: Flood-displaced wildlife (raccoons, snakes, etc.) can become disoriented and aggressive. ADPH warns against approaching stray or wild animals due to rabies risk.
  • Insect risk: Standing water post-flood is a breeding ground for mosquitoes. Tuscaloosa EMA suggests wearing long clothing and using DEET or Picaridin repellent when working near floodwater.
• Electrical Hazards.
  • Downed Power Lines: Floodwaters may hide live wires. ADPH advises: never touch them—stay in your car if a line falls, notify your utility provider.
  • Wet Electrical Systems: Shutting off electricity before entering flooded structures and using a flashlight (never candles) for safety.
  • CO Poisoning: Using generators, grills, or gas-powered tools indoors (or even near open windows) can build up deadly carbon monoxide. Alabama Public Health strongly emphasizes using them only outdoors, far from windows/vents.

How Can You Stay Safe and Prepared?

• If flooding is expected and evacuation is not an option, move to the highest safe floor of your home and avoid basements or areas below ground level. Gather emergency supplies, including food, water, medications, and important documents, in waterproof containers or bags.
• Never attempt to walk or drive through floodwaters just six inches of moving water can knock you down, and one foot can carry away a car.
• Unplug appliances and turn off electricity, gas, and water if instructed or if rising water poses a threat. Stay informed with weather alerts and local updates.
• Make sure your family’s communication plan includes what to do if you become separated. Prepare for power outages by charging phones, flashlights, and backup batteries in advance.

What Should You Do to Protect Yourself and Begin Recovery?

• Do not enter floodwaters they can be contaminated or hide hazards. Wait for local officials to declare it safe before returning home.
• Check on family and neighbors. Photograph damage and keep receipts for insurance claims. Wear protective clothing when cleaning mud and debris.
• Discard flooded food, medicines, and damaged items that can’t be sanitized. Use caution with electrical appliances and wait for inspections before turning power back on.
• If you need assistance, contact local relief agencies. Remember, recovery takes time and seek support if you feel overwhelmed.

More Information

• Floods | Ready.gov
• The National Flood Insurance Program
• AL Post Flood Recovery Guidebook

What is a Wildfire?

Wildfires are unplanned fires that burn in natural areas like forests, grasslands, or prairies. These fires can spread quickly and can devastate wildlife and natural areas along with communities. This can happen at any time during the year.

Hazards caused by Wildfires

• Flooding and Mudslides.
  • Saturated soils & hydrophobic layer: Wildfires remove vegetation and create water-repellent soils. Heavy rains afterwards can trigger rapid runoff, flash flooding, debris flows, and mudslides—even in regions not typically prone to landslides.
• Contaminated Water Supply.
  • Ash & sediment in waterways: Post-fire runoff can carry ash, nutrients, and heavy metals—like lead, arsenic, iron—into streams, reservoirs, and wells, increasing turbidity and pollutant levels.
  • Chemical hazards: Retardants and degraded plastics/pipes may introduce volatile organic compounds (e.g., benzene), elevated pH, nitrates, and DBPs into water systems.
  • Long-term impacts: Water utilities may need enhanced treatment for years; private wells should be tested for metals, VOCs, particulates, pH, and more.
• Displaced Wildlife or Insects.
  • Wildlife displacement: Animals forced from burned habitats may wander into residential areas, becoming confused or defensive. Injured wildlife may be encountered—avoid handling and alert wildlife control.
  • Insect outbreaks: Burned areas can attract pests (e.g., fire-following beetles), while bare soils support dust mites and biting insects; use repellents, wear protective clothing, and seal structures.
• Poor Air Quality.
  • Smoke & particulates: Fine PM₂.₅ and volatile chemicals (e.g. benzene, CO) linger after wildfires, impairing air quality for residents—particularly those with asthma, heart or lung conditions.
  • Ash resuspension: Wind-blown ash from burnt ground and debris can add dust, irritate eyes/respiratory systems, and further degrade indoor/outdoor air; wear N95 masks and use air filters.

How Can You Prepare and Stay Informed?

• Recognize warnings and alerts, and air quality.
• Never attempt to walk or drive through floodwaters just six inches of moving water can knock you down, and one foot can carry away a car.
• Have masks or respirators to help breathe if you are in any smoke.

What Should You Do to Stay Safe and Begin Recovery?

• Do not return home until told by authorities that it is safe to do so.
• Avoid hot ash, charred trees, and smoldering debris as these can reignite or cause burns.
• Use a respirator to reduce smoke and dust inhalation. Wet down debris to keep dust from spreading.
• Communicate via text or social media if possible. Phone lines may be overwhelmed — reserve calls for emergencies.
• Document damage with photos, wear protective clothing, and contact your insurance provider as soon as possible.

More Information

• Wildfires | Ready.gov

What is an Earthquake?

An earthquake is the sudden shaking of the ground caused by the shifting of rock beneath the Earth’s surface. While Alabama is not in a high-risk seismic zone, minor earthquakes do occur and can still cause damage especially to older or poorly built structures. Earthquakes strike without warning and may last only a few seconds, but the shaking can lead to falling debris, damaged utilities, and serious injury. Aftershocks may follow, sometimes hours or days later, increasing the risk of additional damage.

Hazards caused by Earthquakes

• Aftershocks.
  • Be alert for more quakes: Aftershocks—sometimes nearly as strong as the initial one—can occur minutes, hours, days, or even weeks later. Take cover again if shaking resumes and avoid re‑entering damaged buildings until inspected.
• Gas Leaks or Fires.
  • Check for leaks: Sniff for rotten‑egg smell or hissing from gas appliances or lines. If suspected, shut off the main valve (outside), evacuate immediately, and have only utility professionals restore service.
  • Fire risk: Broken gas lines, ruptured utility systems, and fallen power lines can ignite. Use care when extinguishing small fires, and avoid sparks or open flames until cleared.
• Downed Power Lines.
  • Stay away: Do not touch any downed or damaged power lines—or objects they contact. Report to utility companies and maintain at least a 20 ft distance.
  • Electrical hazards indoors: Exposed or frayed wiring may spark fires. If found, shut off power at the breaker before re-entering and call a licensed electrician.
• Falling Debris or Unstable Structures.
  • Structural collapse: Damaged chimneys, roofs, walls, or shelves can collapse. Avoid unstable structures and cordon off unsafe areas.
  • Protective gear: Wear sturdy boots, gloves, long sleeves, and helmets when moving through debris. Inspect before entering, and expect loose items to shift.

How Can You Prepare Your Home and Family?

• Because earthquakes happen without warning, it’s important to prepare your home and your family in advance. Anchor heavy furniture, appliances, and shelves to walls. Store breakable or heavy items on lower shelves and secure anything that could fall and cause injury.
• Identify safe spots in each room under sturdy furniture or against interior walls away from windows. Practice “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” drills regularly with your family.
• Create an emergency kit with essentials like water, food, first aid supplies, flashlights, and a battery-powered radio. Keep shoes and a flashlight by your bed in case a quake happens at night.
• Know how to shut off utilities like gas and electricity if damage occurs. Make a communication plan and have a designated meeting place in case you’re separated.

What Should You Do to Stay Safe and Begin Recovery?

• After shaking stops, move carefully and avoid damaged buildings. Watch for gas leaks, broken glass, and unstable structures.
• Wait for official announcements before returning.
• Check in with family and neighbors. Take photos of damage before repairs. Save receipts and contact your insurance company quickly.
• Be prepared for aftershocks, stay away from weakened structures and have your emergency kit ready. If utilities are damaged, know how to safely shut them off.
• Seek help if you feel stressed or anxious. Recovery is a process, and community support can help.

Helpful Links

• Earthquakes | Ready.gov

Please visit these sites for further resources and help.

• Contact Numbers and Insurance Claims Hotlines
• External Links

Safety First

• Stay away from damaged areas and downed power lines.
• Use caution when entering buildings; look for structural damage.
• Wear protective clothing and gloves when handling debris.

Insurance and Claims

• Document damage with photos and videos.
• Make temporary repairs to prevent further damage.
• Keep receipts for any emergency repairs or purchases.
• Contact your insurance agent promptly to start claims.
• What You Need to Know When Filing a Homeowners Claim
• Post-Disaster Claims Guide

Mental Health

• Disasters can cause stress and trauma; seek support if needed.
• Talk with family, friends, or mental health professionals.
• Practice self-care and patience during recovery.