PERSONAL INSURANCE BULLETIN
Forth Quarter 1999
October 17 marks the 10th anniversary of the Loma Prieta Earthquake, the worst calamity to hit the Bay Area since 1906.
The quake struck during the third game of the World Series providing television viewers across the country with a visual of what Californians were experiencing.
The recent devastating earthquake in Turkey, as well as minor tremors in Montana and San Francisco provide all too frequent reminders of the damage an earthquake can do.
In 1989, San Francisco was dark for three days following the quake and telephone service sporadic. Citizens formed bucket brigades to help firefighters who were without water because of broken mains. The quake killed 62 people throughout Central California, injured almost 4,000 more, left 12,000 homeless, and caused nearly $6 billion damage-$3 billion in San Francisco.
Though one of the more devastating earthquakes in California history, Loma Prieta was one of many. The years 1906, 1915, 1925, 1933, 1957, 1964, 1971, 1987, and the Northridge in 1994, are also important dates in California earthquake history. Others are sure to follow.
Still, despite a virtual string of damage throughout the century, many homeowners remain unprepared for the next earthquake. Affordable residential earthquake insurance is available through IBA West and Pacific Select Property Insurance Co. It is easy to forget about the devastating effects that can happen. While coverage may be ?something I better check into one of these days.?
Another earthquake is sure to happen. It is essential to protect your personal assets from earthquake devastation. Don?t wait, call our agency now!
