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Perform regular yard maintenance

Care for trees and shrubs that are close to the home. To reduce fire risk, make sure garden mulch isn’t placed against siding. Check for damaged and downed limbs as well as rotted portions of a tree, and take action to remove them.

Install detection devices

Heat, water and security system monitors notify you in the event of a potential risk so you can take preventative steps. In case of lightning, consider surge protectors for high-value items that are plugged in.

Locate your water main

First, locate the water main in your home. If you need assistance, consider contacting a plumber who can help you to operate the main. Add a tag or marker to help you remember where it’s located. 

When on vacation, consider turning the water off to your washing machine. If you have a water leak in your home, the quickest step to reduce damage is to shut off the water main.

Secure your valuables

Put important papers and treasured items in a locked, waterproof and fireproof container. Compile a home inventory list that can be accessed in the event of a loss. We recommend taking a video of your home, room by room. Keep a digital copy of the list and video that can be accessed from anywhere.

Monitor smoke and carbon monoxide detectors

Change smoke and carbon monoxide detector batteries annually and test them at least twice a year. We recommend replacing the detectors every seven to ten years.

Keep fire extinguishers handy

Have fully charged fire extinguishers on every level of your home and one extinguisher in your kitchen. Check the devices at least once a year to ensure they are still charged, as they can deteriorate over time.

Maintain a consistent indoor temperature

To avoid frozen pipes, keep your home between 55-65 degrees, even when you aren't home. Be aware of pipes that go through cooler parts of your home and consider wrapping them in towels or insulation.

Perform regular home maintenance

Have HVAC and heating systems serviced and cleaned annually. Regularly remove lint from drier vents and check washing machine hoses for bulges and proper connections. Inspect and clean chimneys every year.

Install a sump pump

If you are in a low-lying or flood-prone area, add a sump pump with a battery backup power source to keep the pump running during power outages.

Water damage

• Shut off water main if the water is coming from the home.
• Add a tarp or cover to the home if safe to do so and the water damage is coming from the outside.
• Remove excess water from the home if possible. A wet vac, towels and buckets can help.
• Take photos of the damage.
• Call your local contractor.
• Call a water mitigation company if you are unable to control the water. Locate a water mitigation vendor here

Fire

• Evacuate the home as quickly and safely as possible.
• Call your local fire/police department.
• Add tarping or boards to the home to reduce any weather damage, theft or other future risks to the property.
• Call a local contractor to assess the property.
• Reach out to a fire restoration company 
  to help with any smoke or fire damage to the home or contents.
• Gather valuables from the home, including driver's licenses, passports, valuable and collectibles to help reduce the risk of theft.
• Take photos of the impacted areas.

Tree on your home or vehicle

• Get out of the home and/or vehicle.
• Call a local arborist if you are not at risk. If there is risk, call your local police/fire department to assist.
• Tarp any holes or openings that the tree caused, to avoid further damage.
• Gather valuables and move them to a safe location.
• Take photos of the damage.