MEDIA ADVISORY: As California Governor Declares State of Emergency, I.I.I. Experts Are Available to Discuss Insurance Implications of Wildfires

Evacuations and Coverage Issues Come to the Fore as Northern California Continues to Battle Wildfires

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Kim Kirchner, Coburn Communication: (212) 536-9837; Kim.Kirchner@coburnww.com  

 

 

ROHNERT PARK, CA, October 11, 2017 — Reporters covering the California wildfires are encouraged to contact the Insurance Information Institute (I.I.I.) for information on insurance coverage and evacuation tips.

 

Governor Jerry Brown declared a state of emergency in Northern California and on Monday, October 9th, mobilized additional firefighting and disaster response resources. Moreover, FEMA also announced on October 9th that it has authorized grants for 10 fires in California to help with the cost of staffing, emergency work, equipment and more.

 

According to Cal OES (Governor’s Office of Emergency Services) there are as many as 14 fires burning in eight counties and an estimated 20,000 people have evacuated.

 

Janet Ruiz, I.I.I.’s California representative, and additional spokespeople are available to brief media representatives who are interested in understanding the coverages provided by standard property insurance policies to businesses, homeowners and renters impacted by wildfires. Spokespeople can also share information on how to get started with the recovery process, including the following tips:

 

  • If you have evacuated let your insurer know as you may have coverage for additional living expenses.
  • Report claims to insurers as soon as possible to get the recovery process started. Many insurance companies have online and mobile claims options.
  • As soon as local assistance centers are set up expect insurers to be on the ground to help with additional living expenses and claims filing.
  • And more…

 

The following online resources are also available to reporters:

 

 

The I.I.I. has a full library of educational videos on its YouTube Channel.

 

THE I.I.I. IS A NONPROFIT, COMMUNICATIONS ORGANIZATION SUPPORTED BY THE INSURANCE INDUSTRY.

 

Insurance Information Institute, 110 William Street, New York, NY 10038; (212) 346-5500; www.iii.org

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