Allstate - You're in good hands

08/29/2008 NORTHBROOK, Ill -

With Gustav entering the Gulf of Mexico this weekend, residents should ensure they are prepared. Allstate has years of experience helping its customers and their families protect themselves every step of the way. We believe preparing in advance of a storm gives homeowners the best chance to minimize risk and start on the road to recovery.

Understanding your insurance coverage and preparing for the dangers of a hurricane can help to minimize property damage and protect your family. Allstate suggests considering the following steps to help you and your family prepare for Gustav:

How to help protect yourself and your family in advance of a storm

• Conduct a home inventory recording each of your possessions. It's also helpful to keep track of model numbers and stores where items were purchased. Store your inventory, including photos and videos, in a safe place away from your home.
• Develop an evacuation plan that includes identification of safe areas, escape routes, meeting locations and plans for pets.
• Prepare an Emergency Supply Kit including a three-day supply of water, nonperishable food, radio and batteries, flashlight and first-aid kit.
• Remove any diseased and damaged limbs from trees to keep them from blowing around during a storm and causing a wind hazard or property damage.
• Purchase materials such as 3/4" plywood that can be used to reinforce your windows, doors and garage doors. Install anchors and pre-drill holes for the plywood so you can install them quickly in the event of a storm.
• Install head and foot bolts in doors for extra protection.

Minimize your losses

• Review your home insurance policy and coverage limits with an agent. Know what you are and are not covered for in the event of a hurricane.
• Find out if you have comprehensive car coverage. This will usually reimburse you for damage to your car caused by falling objects or flood.
• Gather important documents such as insurance policies, birth certificates and identification. Make sure to place them in a waterproof container.

For more information on preparing for catastrophes visit our website at www.allstate.com/catastrophe.

The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL) is the nation's largest publicly held personal lines insurer. Widely known through the "You're In Good Hands With Allstate®" slogan, Allstate is reinventing protection and retirement to help individuals in approximately 17 million households protect what they have today and better prepare for tomorrow. Customers can access Allstate products and services such as auto insurance and homeowners insurance through approximately 14,700 exclusive Allstate agencies and financial representatives in the U.S. and Canada, or in select states at allstate.com and 1-800 Allstate®. Encompass® and Deerbrook® Insurance brand property and casualty products are sold exclusively through independent agents. The Allstate Financial Group provides life insurance, supplemental accident and health insurance, annuity, banking and retirement products designed for individual, institutional and worksite customers that are distributed through Allstate agencies, independent agencies, financial institutions and broker-dealers. Customers can also access information about Allstate Financial Group products and services at myallstatefinancial.com.

Contact:

Mike Siemienas
847-402-5600