Media Contact: Nicole Farr
602 996-7009 (Office)

Phoenix, AZ (January 20, 2010)  – The winter rains are here. A week full of rain is a welcome change to most Arizonans. But with the ground hardened from drought and homes and autos weathered and warped from the long hot summer, the rains can be dangerous.

The Arizona Insurance Council (AIC) wants to remind Arizona residents to be prepared for heavy rains that may cause damage to homes and autos. 

Take Action to Avoid Damage and Losses: 

• Tightly close and lock all doors to keep out wind and wind-driven rain. Also check weather stripping around doors and windows; replace any worn or cracked sections to keep rain and cold from entering.

• Check your roof for any loose shingles or cracked tiles; water can leak through these cracks and cause damage to both the interior and exterior of your home.  Repair or replace shingles and tiles as necessary to avoid leaks.

• Remove debris from gutters and downspouts where water can backup and seep into your home.

• Be aware of roads and parking lots that may be too flooded to drive across and choose to find an alternate route. And be very cautious at night, it's much harder to detect flooded areas in the dark.

To be prepared for all of Arizona’s rainy seasons it is also a good idea to have flood insurance for your home; especially if you live near washes, rivers or other low lying areas. Flood insurance must be purchased separately from homeowner’s insurance. Please contact the National Flood Insurance Program at 1-888-379-9531 to learn how you can purchase flood insurance.

To learn more about property and casualty insurance in Arizona visit the AIC web site at www.azinsurance.org.

The Arizona Insurance Council is a non-profit organization supported by member companies in the property-casualty insurance business.

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