Missouri DCI encourages emergency preparedness, including insurance coverage

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. - Despite the drought Missouri experienced for much of the past year, severe weather and flash flooding this spring and summer resulted in costly damage to hundreds of homes as well as roads, bridges, and other public infrastructure across the state.

In September, National Preparedness Month raises awareness about the importance of preparing for disasters and emergencies. The Missouri Department of Commerce and Insurance (DCI) continues to focus on consumer awareness and education by partnering with the Missouri State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) to encourage emergency preparedness, including insurance coverage.

"Being prepared in the event of a disaster saves lives, prevents injuries, and reduces damage and financial losses," said Chlora Lindley-Myers, Director of the Missouri Department of Commerce and Insurance. "Insurance coverage is an important aspect of recovery that can significantly minimize the overall burden an emergency brings."

Understanding your insurance policy to protect investments in your home or personal property helps minimize losses in the aftermath of a disaster. Most standard homeowners or renters policies do not cover flooding or earthquake damage. DCI has severe weather resources available at insurance.mo.gov/consumers/weather/ to help review your current policy, add coverage, or make a claim.

"Flooding is generally the most common and costliest type of disaster Missouri experiences," SEMA Director Jim Remillard said. "Everyone should understand which risks most frequently impact their area and prepare now to protect themselves. This includes having a plan, building a kit, and receiving emergency alerts in multiple ways."

DCI and SEMA are partnering to work with local agencies and promote a #BeFloodPrepared campaign in 2025. It is important to educate consumers and make them aware of the serious risks that may impact their family's long-term recovery if they do not have the proper coverage before an event. A new policy can sometimes take 30 days to go into effect.

For any insurance questions, Missouri consumers can call DCI's Insurance Consumer Hotline at 800-726-7390 or visit insurance.mo.gov/consumers/.

DCI is charged with protecting Missouri consumers through oversight of the insurance industry, banks, credit unions, utilities and various professional licensees operating in the state. For more information about the department, please visit our website at dci.mo.gov.