Wildfire season brings with it an increased risk of fire damage to many homeowners. No matter where you live, a wildfire is a possibility. It is important to pay attention to factors such as wind conditions and rain levels.
However, property owners can also take steps to prevent risk around their home. During wildfire season, the first step a property owner should take is verifying that their home insurance is up to date. Then, consider a few additional tips.
Walk the Exterior of the Home
The most important step a property owner can take is to focus and be knowledgeable. That starts with understanding risks nearby. Walk around the exterior of your home. Look for areas of concern. Pinpoint problems such as:
- Areas of brush or bushes around the home; keep a distance of several feet of any type of vegetation around the home.
- Look for areas surrounding the home that could bring fire close. A wooden fence, for example, can catch sparks.
- Look at the home itself. Many people in fire-risk areas know the importance of keeping vegetation off the home. What about on your patio and deck?
- Clear away any type of movable debris or property. Any asset you can move out of the risk area, do so.
- Invest in fire-resistant landscaping materials. Choose materials and fire barriers that can help reduce your risk.
The exterior of the home is just the first step. Be sure to focus on all of the elements throughout the home that could put you at risk.
Reduce Risks Daily
It helps to take steps to reduce risks on an ongoing basis. If you plan to grill outdoors, ensure there is no risk associated with the grass or brush catching on fire. Invest in sprinkler systems to keep lawns wet.
This reduces risks. Spend time monitoring conditions around the home beyond your property. How does the neighbor's home look? If they have risks nearby, this may impact you. Discuss solutions with locals. If you are unsure what you can do, speak to your local fire department.
Practicing safe fire use is critical. You do not want to file a home insurance claim. The good news is home insurance can help. Wildfires are usually a covered type of peril on most comprehensive plans. Verify this with your insurer now. Do this before the start of the fire season. This adds protection to your home and your financial health.
Need Baton Rouge homeowners insurance? We can help you get a policy quote right now. It's free! Call The Louisiana Insurance Center at (225) 292-7680 right now.