In nearly every location across the country, homeowners are at risk from a variety of hazards, including: floods, earthquakes, high winds from tornadoes, severe winter storms; and wildfires. Because most of these hazards only occur periodically, however, many homeowners don't even realize the danger they face.

Nearly every location in every State is at risk. Flooding is by far the most prevalent, occurring to some degree in every State in the nation. Forty-one States have a moderate or higher earthquake hazard. Wildfires can occur anywhere that fuel exists and weather conditions are right. In addition, damaging high winds have caused destruction across the nation, particularly in coastal areas. Given the hazards that are out there, homeowners need to take action to protect themselves and their property.

Fortunately, homeowners can reduce their risk through cost-effective mitigation measures. Ideally, these measures should be considered before your home is built. For example, potential homeowners should consider carefully the risks that they would face by moving to certain high-hazard areas before making the decision to buy or build. Also, when building your home, close attention should be paid to how your home is being constructed. Risks posed by all types of natural hazards (including floods, earthquakes, high winds, or wildfire) may be reduced substantially by paying attention to building codes and by incorporating mitigation measures into the structure.

If you have an existing home, however, all hope is not lost. There are also many steps that you can take to better protect yourself from future losses. Buildings subject to earthquakes or high winds may be strengthened to make them more resistant to a variety of hazards. In addition, simple steps can be taken within your home to make your property less susceptible to damages if a disaster occurs.