New Features On Disaster Protection Web Site

New Features On Disaster Protection Web Site

NU Online News Service, Aug. 22, 12:52 p.m. EDT?A non-profit insurance industry operation said it has spiffed up its Web site to make it easier to learn how to protect homes or businesses from storms, tornadoes or other disasters.

The announcement came from the Tampa, Fla.-based Institute for Business & Home Safety, which displays information at www.disastersafety.org.

IBHS, a national non-profit insurance industry initiative, is dedicated to protecting homes and businesses from natural disasters as well as certain everyday events like water damage.

IBHS said its latest Web site enhancements will allow more efficient access to property protection tips on hurricanes, tornadoes, wildfires, floods, hail, earthquakes and freezing weather, as well as to related news headlines, IBHS publications and other pertinent information. A new section on flood risks and levees is also available.

IBHS said the site, developed by St. Petersburg-based DataGlyphics, will continue to carry features such as a video gallery and an interactive "Question of the Week" about a topical natural disaster safety issue.

The institute said it has also added a private section to its Web site for its member insurers and reinsurers and their agents. This new section, it said, includes special research reports and presentations, training programs on key state building codes, member bulletins, an "Ask IBHS" feature, and other content of particular interest to insurers.

Property-casualty insurance trade group representatives also have access to the new section, IBHS said.

Member company and trade group personnel are asked to fill out a brief registration form the first time they visit the site. After submitting their information, they will have access to both the public and private site content, IBHS said.

Harvey Ryland, IBHS president and chief executive officer, said the changes will allow his group to more effectively provide business and home owners "the tools to help them build stronger residential and commercial structures, or to strengthen what's already built. At the same time, we have been able to add custom information for our members, who through their support of IBHS are working to make communities safer."