Securing Your Home: A New Year's Resolution for Preparedness

As we step into the new year, it's an opportune time to prioritize the safety and security of our homes early before the hurricane season starts. While resolutions often revolve around personal goals, dedicating some attention to safeguarding your home through proper homeowners insurance and disaster preparedness is a resolution that truly matters. Anderson Traylor Edwards stands ready to fight for you, ensuring you receive the protection you expect and deserve as a victim of a natural disaster. Here are some essential tips to start your year right and ensure your home is well-protected.

1. Review and Update Your Homeowners Insurance:

Begin the year by revisiting your homeowners insurance policy with ATE. Ensure that it adequately covers your home and possessions in the event of a natural disaster. Check for any gaps in coverage and make necessary adjustments. Consider consulting with your insurance provider to discuss additional coverage options, such as flood insurance or extended liability protection.

2. Create a Home Inventory:

Take the time to create or update your home inventory with our guidance. Document your possessions, including valuable items, electronics, furniture, and appliances. This inventory will be invaluable in the event of a disaster, helping you file claims more efficiently and ensuring you receive proper compensation for your losses.

3. Develop a Disaster Preparedness Plan:

No one expects a natural disaster such as hurricanes and tornadoes, but being prepared is key to minimizing the impact. We recommend developing a comprehensive disaster preparedness plan that includes evacuation routes, emergency contacts, and a kit with essential supplies. Share this plan with your family members so that everyone is aware of the procedures to follow in case of an emergency.

4. Conduct Home Safety Checks:

January is an excellent time to conduct thorough safety checks around your home. Inspect your roof, windows, and doors for any vulnerabilities. Ensure that your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors are in working order. If you have a fireplace or wood-burning stove, have the chimney cleaned to prevent potential fire hazards.

5. Stay Informed About Local Risks:

Different regions face varying natural disaster risks. ATE advises staying informed about the specific risks in your area, whether it's hurricanes, tornadoes, floods, or wildfires. Understanding these risks enables you to tailor your preparedness plan to address the unique challenges your location may present.

6. Check Your Generators and Understand Usage Protocols:

Before the storm season hits, take a moment to check your generators to be sure they're in optimal condition. You’ll also want to familiarize yourself with the proper usage protocols to guarantee a reliable backup power source during emergencies, especially if your generator is not permanently connected to your home.

7. Encourage Community Preparedness:

We encourage you to engage with your community to promote overall preparedness. This could involve participating in local emergency drills, sharing resources, or even organizing community workshops on disaster preparedness. A well-prepared community is more resilient in the face of adversity.

By incorporating these steps into your new year's resolutions, you not only prioritize the safety of your home and loved ones, but also contribute to building a more resilient and prepared community. Remember, preparedness is a continuous process, and starting the year with a commitment to safeguarding your home sets a positive tone for the months ahead. Stay safe and secure in 2024!