(InvestigateTV) — The U.S. in 2024 declared a major natural disaster, on average, once every four days, according to the International Institute for Environment and Development.

In many cases, the scale of injuries and deaths were directly impacted by how prepared a community was for a disaster, and how quickly residents were able to react or evacuate.

About 40 percent of people in a new survey by Guardian Service said they feel extremely prepared for severe weather, but 33 percent admit they actually haven’t done anything to protect their home.

And 38 percent have never spoken to their insurance provider about disaster-specific coverage.

Sam Huisache, a data researcher with Guardian Service, said that’s a problem. A lot of people think, “I have homeowner’s insurance or renter’s insurance, so I’m covered.” But that’s not always the case.

“I think people really underestimate how few natural disaster types insurance actually covers,” Huisache said. “I would say most things that go wrong in natural disaster, especially hurricane related damage is actually not covered.”

Huisache said flooding from rising waters, storms, hurricanes, rain overflows are not typically covered. Earthquakes, landslides, mudslides, or sinkholes aren’t typically covered either.

Huisache said wind damage is sometimes covered from hurricanes, but anything related to water damage is usually not.

The key here is for people to know what is and is not insured.

“My first tip is to call your insurance company and find out what is actually covered,” Huisache urged. “It’s also important to remember too, it is legal for insurance companies to make you pay higher rates if you’re already in a hurricane prone area.”

Huisache also said prepare a bug-out bag – a ready to go emergency kit with essentials – in case of an emergency. The bag should include nonperishable food, medication, water, flashlights, cash, clothes, and an emergency blanket. Some even include a small tent.

Huisache recommended taking the time to create an emergency evacuation plan with family members, so everyone knows where to go and what to do if the worst happens.

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