We live in an area prone to wildfires.  Are you prepared?

A surprising fact: wildfires can happen in almost every state. San Diego Fire Insurance

While wildfire strikes more frequently in the West, nearly every state has been devastated by fires in the last century. Each year hundreds of homes are destroyed as more people choose to live closer to nature.  Just look at what happened in Texas in the past couple of months as an example.

Know what your Homeowners Insurance covers and how much you need.

Your  insurance policy covers repair or rebuilding costs. If you can’t live in your home, it also will pay additional living expenses as provided in your policy. Review your policy for detailed coverage explanations.

It is important that you review your insurance policy once a year to make sure you have enough coverage to rebuild based on current construction costs. We recommend you work with an independent appraiser to get a precise estimate, and make sure you talk to your agent about your home’s unique features.

You can reduce the chance of losing to wildfire.

No building is fireproof, but there are steps you can take to better the chances when wildfire strikes.

Define your defensible space: a 100-foot, non-combustible zone around your home

Choose fire-resistant plants and trees

Remove or prune low hanging tree branches

Cut grass and weeds regularly and keep your roof and yard clean

Stack wood piles or other burnable materials at least 30 feet from your home or other buildings on your property

Keep signs and addresses visible so firefighters can easily locate your property

Rate your roof – is it fire resistant?

Clear your yard of debris and other forms of fuel.

When a wildfire strikes, protect yourself and your family.

If a wildfire starts in your area, monitor local news reports for evacuation procedures. Prepare for evacuation by turning off gas valves and pilot lights, closing all windows and doors and packing your car for quick departure, if there is time and it is safe to do so. Return to a burned area only when local authorities have instructed you to do so.

Call Wayne McCormick at McCormick Insurance Solutions in San Diego if you would like a no-obligation review of your Homeowners or Condo Insurance policy. 619-276-0492