Inventory Home Possessions

Make a record of your possessions to help you claim reimbursement in case of loss or damage. Store this information in a safe deposit box or other secure (flood/fire safe) location to ensure the records survive a disaster. Include photographs or video of the interior and exterior of your home as well as cars, boats and recreational vehicles. Also, have photos of durable medical equipment and be sure to make a record of the make and model numbers for each item. Get professional appraisals of jewelry, collectibles, artwork, or other items that may be difficult to evaluate. Make copies of receipts and canceled checks showing the cost for valuable items.

Reduce Home Hazards

In a disaster, ordinary items in the home can cause injury and damage. Take these steps to reduce your risk.

• Have a professional repair defective electrical wiring and leaky gas connections.
• Place large, heavy objects on lower shelves and hang pictures and mirrors away from beds.
• Use straps or other restraints to secure tall cabinets, bookshelves, large appliances (especially water heater, furnace, and refrigerator), mirrors, shelves, large picture frames, and light fixtures to wall studs.
• Repair cracks in ceilings and foundations.
• Store weed killers, pesticides, and flammable products away from heat sources.
• Place oily rags or waste in covered metal cans and dispose of them according to local regulations.
• Have a professional clean and repair chimneys, flue pipes, connectors, and gas vents.

Home Hazard Hunt

Go around your house and find items and make simple fixes that could dramatically increase your home's safety.

Utilities

Know how and when to turn off water, gas and electricity at the main switches or valves and share this information with your family and caregivers. Keep any tools you will need near gas and water shut off valves. Turn off the utilities only if you suspect the lines are damaged, you suspect a leak or if local officials instruct you to do so.

(Note: Gas shut-off procedure - As part of the learning process, do not actually turn off the gas. If the gas is turned off for any reason, only a qualified professional can turn it back on. It might take several weeks for a professional to respond. In the meantime, you will require alternate sources to heat your home, make hot water, and cook.)