Protecting Your Home

Disasters happen – you can't prevent them but you can be prepared. A few simple steps can help you minimize the damage from a disaster and help you get back on your feet quickly after a disaster.

• Have a Plan
  

  Know what type of natural disasters are common in your region and planning accordingly. That may mean having wood handy to board up your windows during hurricane season or earthquake proofing your home.

• Know Your Insurance Coverage
  

  Not all disasters are automatically covered by standard homeowner's insurance. Talk to your insurance agent and read your policy carefully. Don't be shocked after a disaster to find you don't have the coverage you need – plan ahead. Often times flood and earthquake insurance are separate policies so be sure to ask about them if either is a risk where you live.

• Be Prepared
  

  Have a fireproof box with copies of important documents. Make sure it's in a place that is easy to get to in case you need to leave your home quickly. Keep an emergency kit up-to-date and handy as well.

• Develop a Family Plan
  

  Know how your family will get out of the house in an emergency and have a meeting place in case a disaster happens when the family is not home.

• Be Organized
  

  Don't wait until after a disaster strikes to gather information about assistance. Have a list of key contacts – your insurance broker, lender, etc.

  No one wants to think the worst will happen but a little preparation can go a long way in a disaster. Use our Disaster Preparation Checklist to help you plan before something happens. Coder's Note: link to Disaster Preparation Checklist