Auto & Home
Are You and Your Home Protected from Wildfires?
From lightning storms to unattended campfires and discarded cigarettes, wildfires start for any number of reasons. But once they’re ablaze, it can be hard to contain the spread. Here’s what you need to know to protect your home—and prepare for the possibility of evacuation.
Build smart
Many materials are fire resistant and can help protect your home from serious damage. Invest in Class-A fire rated roofing products and install metal flashing around the edges of the roof, as well as where wood decking meets siding. Use fire-resistant siding such as brick, fiber-cement, plaster, or stucco, and use dual-pane tempered glass windows to help stave off embers.
Keep up with exterior maintenance
Low hanging branches, dead vegetation, and fallen twigs can all easily catch fire. Clean your gutters regularly to remove debris, clear out window screens and vents, and remove any plantings that have seen better days. Got a deck? Keep the area underneath clean, and don’t store flammable materials like lumber or firewood underneath. In fact, firewood stored outside should be moved at least 30 feet away from the house.
Create easy access for first responders
The easier your home is to find, the faster first responders can arrive on the scene. Clearly mark your house number and ensure that there is a clear path to your front door. For emergency vehicle access, your driveway should be at least 12 feet wide with a vertical clearance of 15 ft.
Make an action plan
If you know your home is in a wildfire-prone zone, plan for emergencies and discuss your plan with loved ones. Make sure you’ve accounted for pets, livestock, and any other domesticated animals on your property. Know two ways out of your neighborhood and designate a pre-arranged meeting place in the event that family members aren’t all at home when an evacuation is ordered.
Create an inventory
Don’t wait until after fire damage to try and catalogue your lost belongings. A thorough home inventory can not only expedite the claims process, but also give you peace of mind. For major items, include a description (including brand, make, and model), serial number if applicable, and the purchase price/estimated value. If you have them, scan receipts and add copies. Save your inventory to the cloud.
Save critical documents and valuables
Store important documents, jewelry, and other valuable assets in a fireproof safe. If you’re evacuating, be sure to take your social security card, passport, birth certificate, the deed to your house, important medical records, and a list of emergency contacts.
Reevaluate your policy
According to the National Fire Prevention Association, you should conduct an annual insurance policy checkup to adjust for local building costs, codes, and new renovations.
If you’re looking for homeowner’s protection that fits your needs and unique climate, talk to MetLife Auto & Home®. We can help you discover savings and comprehensive, customizable coverage that fits your needs and your budget. Call 1-855-206-9523 today for a free quote or learn more here.