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Don’t lose control of your household by doing nothing...
If you live in an area prone to natural disasters it is crucial that you have a Family Disaster Plan in place. Here are some tips to follow:
- Flood and wind insurance are not typically included in a homeowner’s insurance policy. A separate policy protecting your home from this type of damage is a wise, relatively inexpensive investment.
- Install impact-resistant shutters over all glass windows and doors.
- Protect areas where water can enter your home.
- Locate the safest areas in your home and within your local community. Have a predetermined escape route in place in case you need to leave the area. Include plans to evacuate pets.
- Have an out-of-state family member or friend as an emergency contact.
- Keep emergency phone numbers posted. Make sure that children know how to use these numbers.
- Have a battery operated radio available. Change the batteries every 6 months.
- Have a stock of emergency supplies including a first aid kit, water, nonperishable food, cooking utensils, pet care items, blankets, pillows, prescription medicine, and cash.
Insurance and financial related information are absolute necessities during a disaster. Make sure that you have access to all of your important documents and an inventory of your household possessions. If disaster strikes, this inventory should include:
- The location of original financial and family documents including birth certifications, marriage licenses, wills, trusts, deeds, powers of attorney, tax returns, insurance policies, stock and bond certificates.
- A visual record and/or a written inventory of your possessions. Include model and serial numbers.
- Photographs of your home that include any landscaping and improvements.
- Photographs of cars, boats, and recreational vehicles.
- Appraisals of jewelry, artwork, collectibles, and other property that is difficult to value.
- Copies of receipts and cancelled checks for more valuable items.
With Estate++ scanned copies of documents and digital photographs can be uploaded and downloaded as needed. It is the ideal starting point for a dependable Family Disaster Plan. Your most important personal information is organized into a single safe place. Your information is always within reach, when you need it most.
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