Your Home Emergency Checklist is Here
Checklist for Emergencies
When there is an emergency at your home you are already stressed. If the emergency puts you in danger, then the last thing you want to worry about things and that your primary focus is making sure you and your family is safe. Here are a few tips to help in the middle of an emergency.
When you and your family are safe and out of harm’s way you would want to make the calls. You would want to make sure you have all your insurance company phones, policy numbers and declaration pages.
· Contact Your Insurance Company- as soon as you are safe, contact your home or flood insurance company to report the damage. We will guide you through the claims process and provide instructions on what to do next.
· Document the Damage- If it is safe to do so, take photos and videos of the damage to your property. This documentation will be crucial when filing a claim with your insurance company.
· Mitigate Further Damage- Take steps to prevent further damage to your property, removing wet items, drying out the aera, and making temporary repairs if safe.
· Secure Temporary Housing- If your home is uninhabitable due to fire or flood, your insurance company may cover temporary housing expenses. Make sure you bring this up early in the call.
· KEEP RECEIPTS- Save all receipts and documentation related to repairs, replacements, or temporary accommodations.
· KEEP RECORDS- Maintain detailed records of all communication with your insurance company, including the names of the representatives you speak with and the dates of conversations.
· Cooperate with Insurer- Work closely with your insurance company throughout the claims process. Provide requested information promptly and honestly.
· Shut off Utilities- Turn off electricity, gas, and water supplies if you are advised to evacuate or if flooding is imminent.
Keep the following in a bag or container with easy access for any emergency:
A supply of water in jugs or bottles. You should have at least one gallon of water for every person in your home.
Bleach and eye dropper (to treat water)
Food
Food in cans or sealed packages, like soup and tuna fish
Foods and juices that do not have to be refrigerated or cooked.
Food for infants or the elderly
Manual can opener, paper goods and small grill
Blankets and pillows
Change of clothes
First aid kit
Current pictures of family members and pet in case you get separated.
Face masks or coverings
If you are advised to evacuate or need to leave due to the emergency leave your home and if possible, make sure your home is safe and secure. Ensure that windows and doors are locked so that your property inside is protected. Remove valuables if able to.
Emergencies happen all the time to be prepared in the best way. Have an evacuation plan and discuss with your family. Discuss important procedures in case one arises. You would want to go over where to meet, what all can be brought and what is most important. Also, if possible, have an emergency fund in place to be able to cover immediate costs.
Remember that it’s normal to feel stress and anxiety during emergencies. By taking practical steps to prepare and employing coping strategies, you can increase your chances of finding peace of mind and resilience in challenging situations.