The California wildfire that started August 26 now has scorched about 122,000 acres and is threatening at least 10,000 homes, according to news reports. It's a reminder that disaster can strike at any time, and it pays to be prepared.
Howard Mills, chief advisor of Deloitte & Touche's Insurance Industry Group and the former New York superintendent of Insurance, offers these tips for preparing before disaster strikes and what to do after a fire. Also see When Disaster Is at Your Doorstep to learn what the 2003 and 2007 California wildfires can teach you about protecting your possessions.
How to prepare
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- Know what you have to lose. Take a home inventory, by video if possible.
- Know what your homeowners policy covers and difference between assessed value and actual replacement value. Too many people learn only after a fire that they were underinsured.
- Clear your yard of items that could fuel a fire.
- Prepare an emergency kit that includes medical supplies, cash, enough food and water for up to a week, pet supplies and camping equipment.
- Make sure your entire household knows the drill. Rehearse a ten-minute evacuation with your family – that may be all the advance warning you are given.
What to do after
- Take stock after the fire. If it's safe, take an inventory of damage. If you have been evacuated and didn't prepare an inventory of your belongings, do it now.
- Contact your insurance agent as soon as possible – get losses on record immediately.
- Be smart about hiring contractors. Beware of fly-by-night service providers and keep receipts to ensure a smooth claims process.
- Reach out to your state insurance department if you are having difficulty reaching your insurer.
- Don't forget about the extras included in your insurance policy. Some policies offer payment for living expenses and temporary housing, among other perks.
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