As last week’s wildfires affected most of us here in Orange County, we thought we would take a moment to touch on a few wildfire preparation and insurance tips. A few good reminders for those of us faced with California fire season each year.

Wildfire Preparation and Insurance Tips:

1. Insurance (In connection with the Financial Planning Association we were reminded of the following tips and suggestions … )

• “Additional living expenses (e.g. staying in a hotel) due to forced evacuation is typically covered for two weeks under a homeowner policy and there is no deductible. If your home is damaged due to the wildfire, then the period of coverage is much longer.

• You will need to provide proof of your contents following a claim. In a perfect world, you would have an inventory list of your personal property. In a practical world, video record your contents. Walk through the interior of your home and record your contents, making sure all closets and drawers are open. Finally, upload the video to the cloud (e.g. email video to yourself or upload to Google Drive).

• Insurance cannot replace family photos and computer files. If you have an opportunity, backup digital versions of these items to the cloud.

• A copy of your entire policy contract is an empowering tool. After a loss, ask for a copy of the entire policy contract (not just the declaration page), for your study.

• Mud slide following a fire is not covered by home insurance but instead covered by flood insurance. Please be mindful that if purchasing flood insurance, there is typically a 30-day waiting period.*”

As Christian Financial Advisors, we sometimes get asked if buying insurance signals a lack of faith. Rather, we would maintain it can demonstrate prudence and good stewardship in planning for an uncertain future while providing the provision your family may need. When it comes down to it decisions regarding the type and amount of insurance you should have, should be based around your current expenses, family needs and your priorities for the future. Insurance should not replace our trust or reliance on God, but when appropriate can be used as a tool to lower financial risks.

 2. Pre-evacuation (if time allows) 

• Clean your roof and gutters.

• Gather any extra debris or flammable items from the exterior of your house (patio cushions, furniture, toys, door mats etc) bringing them inside.

• Leaving exterior or interior house lights on, help your home stay visible by firefighters in the smoke or darkness.

• Know at least two ways out of your neighborhood, and communicate a meeting location for any family members.

• Check on your neighbors and make sure they aware and/or preparing to leave.

CalFire has numerous resources and more detailed Evacuation Guide, so you can be ready next fire season. Additional resources at readyforwildfire.org.

Any informational statements regarding insurance coverage are for general information purposes only. Cooke Wealth Management does not sell insurance. *Insurance tips provided from Fred Giron, CPCU, AIC and summarized by the Financial Planning Association of Orange County.