We’re all shell-shocked by fires, hurricanes, and more in the news! Several years ago, my family experienced a devastating fire in our home. I worked for an insurance company, so given the horrific California wildfires, I have a different perspective to offer you.
CHECK in with your insurance agent! – Share changes in the family (marriages, divorces, new members, etc.). Discuss any highly valued personal property or new purchases. Have you remodeled recently? Ask about Additional Living Expenses! We lived in a hotel for seven months while contractors rebuilt our home! Overall, are you satisfied with your coverage?
Records – Use your cell phone to take pictures of rooms or make a “home sweet home” video! Next, revisit where you store important documents. Invest in a fire-resistant lock box at home, a more secure safety deposit box, or place documents online in the cloud! Looking back, I lost documents temporarily stored in an accordion file. Please make better choices!
Trauma –The American Red Cross provided crisis support and guidance to our family. Losing your home or being displaced ushers in an overwhelming feeling of unease and personal vulnerability! So, remember, there is no shame or judgment in getting help! Now may also be a great time to donate to relief agencies!
Rebuilding – Be patient. Patience is a lot to expect, but it takes time for insurance adjusters to visit, workers to clear and clean, and contractors to hire. We also learned that contractors work on several projects simultaneously, delaying rebuilding efforts! Housing inspectors must also inspect. Folks, it takes a village to rebuild your home; this process is not overnight.
Somewhere, someone is facing the worst days of their life. Please be proactive! Consider how you can protect yourself and your family! No one thinks a disaster can happen to them. Be well and safe in 2025!
Live&Work 4healthyu 