National Preparedness Month: Tips to Protect Your Vehicle When a Disaster Strikes

WASHINGTON -- Sept. 27, 2015: A natural disaster can happen at any time or anywhere, and your vehicle could become an unwilling victim. Once all the preparations are made to protect yourself and your family, GEICO recommends the following preparedness tips to help protect your car.

1. Have a preparedness plan in place – Create a detailed preparedness plan for your vehicle. If you are using your car for an evacuation, carefully plan your route and keep a full tank of gas. Keep emergency supplies such as blankets, a flashlight, first aid kit and cables ready to use at all times.

2. Be aware of your surroundings – Always be aware of your vehicle's surroundings. If possible, move your vehicle away from trees or other potential hazards that may cause damage in a storm. It's also smart to become familiar with the specific risks (flooding and hurricanes) of your geographic location and plan accordingly.

3. Stay alert for weather bulletins – Check the local and national weather forecasts for advisories and updates. Be prepared to put your preparedness plan in place immediately after an alert goes out.

4. Park your vehicle in a safe place – During severe weather, your car is much more vulnerable if left on the road. Plan in advance a safe (garage or other covered structure) location to store your vehicle away from the disaster. To avoid water damage, it is best to keep your car away from low-lying areas prone to flooding.

5. Make sure that you are covered – Periodically review the insurance coverage on your auto policy to make sure that you are fully protected from potential hazards.