Claims Process For Japan Typhoon Damage
Judy Barney
mcb claims office

CAMP FOSTER — As Okinawa is currently in the midst of Typhoon Season and in the light of the first typhoon, the Marine Corps Base Claims Office wants to make post typhoon claims as easy as possible. To reduce potential damage to personal property in future storms, please follow these recommendations and requirements to properly secure outside items.

Everyone is ultimately responsible for the safety and security of their personal property. There are some preventive measures that can be taken to avoid damage or loss during high winds associated with typhoons.

Personal property claims can be filed for property damaged in a typhoon, but the claims process requires damage to be substantiated with proof that appropriate action was taken to minimize risk. Once outside personal property is appropriately secured, take a few pictures to support any future claims.

Also, do not throw away any damaged items until authorized to do so by claims personnel.

The following are examples of some of the most common items. This is not an exhaustive list.

• Sheds, trampolines, swing sets, etc: These items must be properly secured. Most storage sheds in use on Okinawa tend to maintain their support directly from the roof. When the roof gets ripped off during high winds. the rest of the shed tears apart because it has lost its main support. Place sand bags on the top and tie rope around the walls of sheds to maintain the structure of the shed and keep it in one piece. Turn over trampolines and place sand bags on the canvas to secure. Swing sets should be tied down.

• Shed Contents: The only items that should be placed in storage sheds are common outdoor items such as bicycles, lawn mowers, weed eaters, gas cans, etc. Certain items such as lawn chairs, lawn ornaments, and small items should be removed from sheds and brought inside.

• Pools: Canvas type pools should be stored inside. Durable plastic type pools should be drained and sand bags should be placed on the inside base.
 
• Grills: Grills should be taken inside. Propane gas tanks are likely to remain safe from high winds because of their weight and can remain outside.

• Food Spoilage: It is recommended that you have non-perishable foods on hand for a typhoon. Should the power go out and all the food spoils, claims personnel will review any claim regarding what food items claimed were really necessary to have on hand during a typhoon.

The following paperwork will be required for the type of claim indicated:

Claims for personal property require:
 
• DD Form 1842
• DD Form 1844
• Insurance Verification Form
• EFT Worksheet • Power-of-Attorney (if applicable)
• estimates of repair and/or replacement cost substantiation and
• pictures to substantiate property was secured.

Claims for food spoilage require:

• DD Form 1842
• DD Form 1844
• Insurance Verification Form
• EFT Worksheet
• Power-of-Attorney (if applicable)
• Receipt for the purchase or repurchase of lost food items and
• itemization of food lost with the cost of each item.

If you have any questions regarding claims, please contact Judy Barney at the MCB Butler Claims Office at 645-7460 or via e-mail at judy. barney@usmc.mil.

Claims must be filed with your respective service. Where you work or reside (housing area) has no bearing on Personal Property Claims.

Air Force Claims: call 634-1662 or visit Bldg. 15, Kadena Air Base. Navy Claims: call 634-8255 or visit Bldg. 3554, Kadena Air Base.

Army Claims: call 644-4742 or visit Bldg. 218, Torii Station.

The Claims office conducts post-typhoon recovery after a typhoon passes and can provide additional assistance regarding claims procedures.