Disaster checklist: Preparing for floods and wildfires

Below are checklists that can be given to anyone in an area at risk of severe disasters. (Photographer: Charles Mostoller/Bloomberg)

Every year, insurance departments recommend the ways consumers can prepare for various disasters — they may suggest purchasing flood insurance in susceptible areas or offer ways to mitigate fire hazards, in addition to other tips. This year is different; the presence of COVID-19 makes any evacuation more complicated than normal.

It will be harder to find places to evacuate to as shelters will reach capacity quicker due to distancing guidelines. In Michigan, those setting up shelters for individuals displaced by floods are recommending people use hand sanitizer every two hours and wipe down surfaces with disinfectant.