Texans Would Ride Out a Hurricane According to Survey

Allstate Insurance has released a comprehensive survey about hurricane preparedness on the eve of the 2008 hurricane season set to start on June 1, 2008. For 2008, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration is predicting an "above normal" hurricane season. Unfortunately, according to Allstate's survey, many coastal residents are not prepared for a hurricane. In fact, 40% of survey respondents from the Texas coast claim they would not evacuate in the face of a hurricane.

The study was a random sample of 2,800 residents in U.S. coastal regions. The survey revealed that many residents had "hurricane amnesia." That is, those residents most recently affected by a hurricane were more likely to be prepared than those who had not experienced a hurricane in recent memory. For example, 55% claimed to be prepared without an evacuation plan while 78% of New Orleans residents reported being prepared and having prepared an evacuation plan.

This week is National Hurricane Preparedness Week in the United States. It is a good time to review your business insurance policies and risk management plan if your business is located in an area where hurricanes can cause damage. The Allstate website has an excellent page of hurricane preparation tips. The tips are focused on residential and personal coverage, but can easily apply and be adapted for your business.