Fires can be very dangerous for you and your home. Home fires can start and spread quickly, wSHFh is why we all need to be careful and educated when it comes to fire safety and prevention. There are ways that homeowners can help prevent fires. Here is a list of some helpful hints:

• Keep a fire extinguisher accessible.
• Change smoke alarm batteries every year.
• Replace smoke alarms every ten years.
• Always be aware when cooking and never leave your cook top unattended while in use.
• Clean up spilled grease and dispose of hot grease properly, an old can works well.
• Unplug small appliances when not in use.
• Do not store any flammable liquids near kitchen appliances or anywhere inside your home. Avoid overloading your outlets.
• Clean out your clothes dryer vent on a regular basis. You should also clean the lint screen after each use.
• Do not use a space heater near curtains or furniture.

What should you do to prepare for weather emergencies? Since most weather events happen unexpectedly, you may not have proper time to react. We have provided a list of some of the things you should do so you are ready:

• Know the warning signals for your area.
• Compile a disaster supply kit.
• Keep in communication with loved ones.
• Make sure to secure outdoor items that may become airborne.
• Locate gas and water shut-off valves.
• Discuss with your family where your 'safe room' is.
• Have a plan for your pets.
• Listen to a radio or television for weather information.
• Stay in your 'safe room' until the severe weather has passed.

Take a minute to think about all of your personal belongings… your furniture and appliances, clothing, sports or hobby equipment, and electronic goods are all regarded as personal property. As much as you care about all of these things, a storm, fire or burglary can take them from you in an instant! How would you recover from this loss? The best thing to do is to be prepared. Creating a detailed home inventory can be a huge help if you need to file a claim in the future. (It can also help you to determine if you have enough coverage now!) It may seem like a daunting task once you realize how much “stuff” you actually have, but here are some helpful tips to make it easier for you.

There are a few different ways to create a home inventory. First, decide on the best way that works for you. You can do it room by room, category by category (furniture, electronics, etc.), from newest items to oldest or from most expensive purchases to less expensive ones.

One of the easiest ways to take an inventory is to use a video camera, recording and describing items as you walk through your house. Make sure to record and narrate details about your possessions.

Another way is to take photos, and create a home inventory checklist. In some cases, items are listed by the room in wSHFh they are most likely to be found, and in others, they are grouped together by category. For many items like books, CDs, pots and pans, etc., you can make a general estimate of how many you have and their estimated value.

There are also companies that offer home inventory apps for your phone and/or online services like Know Your Stuff

The more details, the better. Keep any receipts you have with your list to make the claims process easier. If you don’t have receipts for your items, make sure to include information such as brand name, model or serial number, approximate date of purchase or age of the item, and purchase price. You basically want to include any information that can help prove what you have and what it’s worth.

Any time you make a significant purchase or decide to sell, give away, or donate large items, it is worth taking a few minutes to update your inventory. Otherwise, take a few minutes once a year to review your list to make sure it’s accurate and up to date.