The forces of plate tectonics have shaped the earth over many years, as the huge plates that form the earth’s surface slowly move over, under and past each other. Sometimes, the movement is gradual. At other times, the plates are locked together, unable to release accumulated energy. When the accumulated energy grows strong enough, the plates break free. If the earthquake occurs in a populated area, it can cause many deaths and injuries, as well as extensive property damage. Now is the time to get prepared for an earthquake.
While earthquakes are widely believed to be only a West Coast occurrence, there are actually 45 states and territories throughout the United States that are at moderate to high risk for earthquakes, including the New Madrid fault line that runs through the Midwest.
Know the Earthquake Terms
One part of getting prepared for an earthquake is to familiarize yourself with these terms to help identify an earthquake hazard:
Aftershock – An earthquake of similar or lesser intensity that follows the main earthquake.
Earthquake – A sudden slipping or movement of a portion of the earth’s crust, causing a series of vibrations on the earth’s surface.
Epicenter – The place on the earth’s surface directly above the point on the fault where the earthquake began. Once fault slippage begins, it continues along the fault during the earthquake and can extend hundreds of miles before stopping.
Fault – A fracture in the earth’s surface where land slipped during an earthquake. The slippage may range from less than an inch to more than 10 yards in a severe earthquake.
Magnitude – The amount of energy released during an earthquake. A magnitude of 7.0 on the Richter scale indicates an extremely strong earthquake. Each whole number on the scale represents an increase of about 30 times more energy released than the previous whole number represents. Therefore, an earthquake measuring 6.0 is about 30 times more powerful than one measuring 5.0.
Seismic waves – Vibrations that travel outward from the earthquake fault at speeds of several miles per second. Although fault slippage directly under a structure can cause considerable damage, the vibrations of seismic waves cause most of the destruction during earthquakes.
Getting Prepared for an Earthquake Before an Earthquake
Here are some things you can do to get prepared for an earthquake and protect yourself, your family and your property in the event of an earthquake:
Build an emergency kit and make a family communication plan.
Fasten shelves securely to walls.
Place large or heavy objects on lower shelves.
Store breakable items such as bottled foods, glass and china in low, closed cabinets with latches.
Fasten heavy items such as pictures and mirrors securely to walls and away from beds, couches and any other places people sit.
Brace overhead light fixtures and top-heavy objects.
Repair defective electrical wiring and leaky gas connections. These are potential fire risks. Get appropriate professional help. Do not work with gas or electrical lines yourself.
Install flexible pipefittings to avoid gas or water leaks. Flexible fittings are more resistant to breakage.
Secure your water heater, refrigerator, furnace and gas appliances by strapping them to the wall studs and bolting them to the floor. If your gas company recommends it, install an automatic gas shut-off valve that is triggered by strong vibrations.
Repair any deep cracks in ceilings or foundations. Get expert advice if there are signs of structural defects.
Be sure the residence is firmly anchored to its foundation.
Store weed killers, pesticides and flammable products securely on bottom shelves in closed cabinets with latches.
Locate safe spots in each room under a sturdy table or against an inside wall. Reinforce this information by moving to these places during each drill.
Hold earthquake drills with your family. Remember to drop, cover and hold on.
During an Earthquake
Drop, cover and hold on. Minimize your movements to a few steps to a nearby safe place. Get prepared for an earthquake, before it happens.
If Indoors
DROP to the ground; take COVER by getting under a sturdy table or other piece of furniture; and HOLD ON until the shaking stops. If there isn’t a table or desk near you, cover your face and head with your arms and crouch in an inside corner of the building.
Stay away from glass, windows, outside doors and walls, and anything that could fall, such as lighting fixtures or furniture.
Stay in bed if you are there when the earthquake strikes. Hold on and protect your head with a pillow, unless you are under a heavy light fixture that could fall. In that case, move to the nearest safe place.
Do not use a doorway unless you know it is a strongly supported, load-bearing doorway and it is close to you. Many inside doorways are lightly constructed and do not offer protection.
Stay inside until the shaking stops and it is safe to go outside. Do not exit a building during the shaking. Research has shown that most injuries occur when people inside buildings attempt to move to a different location inside the building or try to leave.
DO NOT use the elevators.
Remember that the electricity may go out or the sprinkler systems or fire alarms may turn on.
If Outdoors
Stay there.
Move away from buildings, streetlights and utility wires.
Once in the open, stay there until the shaking stops. The greatest danger exists directly outside buildings, at exits and alongside exterior walls. Many of the 120 fatalities from the 1933 Long Beach earthquake occurred when people ran outside of buildings only to be killed by falling debris from collapsing walls. Ground movement during an earthquake is seldom the direct cause of death or injury. Most earthquake-related casualties result from collapsing walls, flying glass and falling objects.
If in a Moving Vehicle
Stop as quickly as safety permits and stay in the vehicle. Avoid stopping near or under buildings, trees, overpasses and utility wires.
Proceed cautiously once the earthquake has stopped. Avoid roads, bridges or ramps that might have been damaged by the earthquake.
If Trapped Under Debris
Do not light a match.
Do not move about or kick up dust.
Cover your mouth with a handkerchief or clothing, if available.
Tap on a pipe or wall so rescuers can locate you. Use a whistle if one is available. Shout only as a last resort. Shouting can cause you to inhale dangerous amounts of dust.
After an Earthquake
When the shaking stops, look around to make sure it is safe to move. Then exit the building.
Expect aftershocks. These secondary shockwaves are usually less violent than the main quake but can be strong enough to do additional damage to weakened structures. Aftershocks can occur in the first hours, days, weeks or even months after the quake.
Help injured or trapped persons. Remember to help people who may require special assistance, such as infants, the elderly and people with access and functional needs. Give first aid where appropriate. Do not move seriously injured persons unless they are in immediate danger of further injury. Call for help.
Look for and extinguish small fires. Fire is the most common hazard after an earthquake.
Listen to a battery-operated radio or television for the latest emergency information.
Be aware of possible tsunamis if you live in coastal areas. These are also known as seismic sea waves (mistakenly called “tidal waves”). When local authorities issue a tsunami warning, assume that a series of dangerous waves is on the way. Stay away from the beach.
Use the telephone only for emergency calls.
Go to a designated public shelter if your home has been damaged and is no longer safe. Text SHELTER and your ZIP code to 43362 (4FEMA) to find the nearest shelter in your area (example: shelter 12345).
Stay away from damaged areas unless your assistance has been specifically requested by police, fire or relief organizations. Return home only when authorities say it is safe.
Be careful when driving after an earthquake and anticipate traffic light outages.
After it is safe to return, your safety should be your primary priority as you begin clean up and recovery.
Open cabinets cautiously. Beware of objects that may fall off shelves.
Put on long pants, a long-sleeved shirt, sturdy shoes and work gloves to protect against injury from broken objects.
Clean up spilled medicines, bleaches, gasoline or other flammable liquids immediately. Leave the area if you smell gas or fumes from other chemicals.
Inspect the entire length of chimneys for damage. Unnoticed damage could lead to a fire.
Inspect utilities.
Check for gas leaks. If you smell gas or hear a blowing or hissing noise, open a window and quickly leave the building. Turn off the gas at the outside main valve if you can and call the gas company from a neighbor’s home. If you turn off the gas for any reason, it must be turned back on by a professional.
Look for electrical system damage. If you see sparks or broken or frayed wires, or if you smell hot insulation, turn off the electricity at the main fuse box or circuit breaker. If you have to step in water to get to the fuse box or circuit breaker, call an electrician first for advice.
Check for sewage and water line damage. If you suspect sewage lines are damaged, avoid using the toilets and call a plumber. If water pipes are damaged, contact the water company and avoid using water from the tap. You can obtain safe water by melting ice cubes.
In addition to insuring your home, we are committed to helping you and your loved ones stay safe when disaster strikes. Being prepared for an earthquake before it happens can be instrumental for your safety. If you would like more information on developing a family emergency plan or building a disaster supply kit, please contact GDI Insurance Agency, Inc. at 209-634-2929 or www.gdiinsurance.com today.
We all know that children are playful and very curious – which helps with learning and exploration, but can also get them into dangerous situations. Everyday objects, such as pools and trampolines, on other people’s property, can irresistibly draw children onto the property, but also present them with hidden dangers, also known as attractive nuisance dangers.
If your property contains items that both draw children in and threaten them with harm, the law places a special responsibility on you to take steps to protect the children who may come onto your property. This duty is generally called the “attractive nuisance” doctrine.
Typically, the attractive nuisance doctrine has three components:
The law doesn’t expect children to fully comprehend the dangers they may face
If a property owner has reason to believe that children might come onto their property, the law places a special responsibility on them to prevent harm
If an owner fails to meet this responsibility, they will most likely be held liable for the child’s injuries.
What is an Attractive Nuisance?
An attractive
nuisance is defined as a building, object or other area that attracts visitors
who may or may not be welcome. These areas may not be properly fenced in or
contain warning signs of their impending dangers. Attractive nuisance injuries
can be quite serious, and sometimes even fatal; yet they are often preventable.
Employers have the power to stop entrance onto their property to discourage
trespassers from coming in and getting hurt. For you, this may mean putting up
fencing around your swimming pool, posting “No Trespassing” signs or placing a
pool cover on your pool at the end of each workday.
A swimming pool
can pose a danger to trespassers at any time of year, as demonstrated in
Bennett v. Stanley, decided by the Ohio Supreme Court in 2001. The court
created the “attractive nuisance doctrine,” stating that properly owners are
liable for the harm of trespassing children. In this case, the pool was
abandoned and needed repair when a child crawled through a hole in the fencing
and fell in. His mother attempted to save him, though they both ended up
drowning.
Whether pools
are closed, unsupervised or full of swimmers, you must take steps to prevent
trespassers from entering your property and harming themselves.
As the owner of
the property, you are responsible for assuring that visitors, guests and
trespassers are safe and avoid injury. You need to take all precautions with
pools such as covering to avoid accidental drowning, placing sturdy fencing
around the area and display warning signs of pool hours. In addition, all
safety equipment should be stored and locked at the end of each day to avoid
trespasser tampering. Any other equipment that presents attractive nuisance
dangers, such as water features, rides or heavy equipment, should also be
adequately fenced off or locked down.
What is Premise Liability for Businesses?
Property owners
are also liable for the maintenance and security that the property needs so
that it remains safe for all visitors. This includes the following:
Fixing cracks or
gaps in walkways to avoid slip and fall dangers
Locking all
hazardous tools, equipment and chemicals away from the public
Ensuring that
employees can conduct work duties without the risk of injury
Hanging flood lights
in areas with low visibility
Hiring security
guards for added protection
Installing rescue equipment,
like ropes and poles
Installing alert
devices, such as flashing lights, sirens, alarms and telephones to alert
security that someone has trespassed onto the premises
With regard to attractive nuisance cases, negligence means that the property owner was aware that someone could get hurt on the property and did nothing to prevent it. Take all necessary precautions to protect individuals on your property. For more assistance in protecting your property, contact GDI Insurance Agency, Inc. today. 209-634-2929
How Can I Protect Myself from Attractive Nuisance Liability?
Be aware and take precautions. Childproofing your property isn’t required, but taking some basic actions to prevent injury goes a long way toward avoiding attractive nuisance liability. Courts tend to punish people who didn’t seem to care or put any effort into encouraging safety. If you can list the steps you took to prevent injury, many courts will be satisfied, even if they didn’t ultimately work.
Use common sense and good judgment. If you see children interested in something on your property, that alone can trigger liability by establishing that you’re aware they’re interested. Lock it up, fence it up, do whatever you can. Signs are helpful but generally won’t save you by themselves – you must take steps to prevent children from gaining access to the attractive nuisance.
California’s Leader in Insurance and Risk Management
As one of the fastest growing agencies in California, GDI Insurance Agency, Inc. is able to provide its clients with the latest and greatest of what the insurance industry has to offer and much, much more.
We are headquartered in Turlock, CA, with locations across the heart of California’s Central Valley, Northern California and beyond to provide a local feel to the solutions and services we provide our clients. We pride ourselves on exceeding our client’s expectations in every interaction to make sure that our client’s know how much we value and appreciate their business. Contact us today 1-209-634-2929 for your comprehensive homeowner insurance quote!
Similar to the CEO of a company, the president of a homeowners association (HOA) plays the primary role in decision-making and overseeing the day-to-day administration of the association. Some HOA or Condo presidents receive compensation, but most are unpaid volunteers, filling a role that can be rewarding, but often unappreciated.
Whether you’re compensated or not, your role as an HOA or Condo president should not be taken lightly. Accepting an HOA board position is serious, as you are charged with safeguarding the personal investments of all HOA members. Care must be taken to ensure homeowners’ concerns and matters are resolved to the satisfaction of all parties involved. Understanding the responsibilities of an HOA president—and the risks related to the role—is important for anyone serving in the position.
The HOA or Condo President’s Responsibilities
Being an HOA or Condo president requires a great deal of interacting with people—homeowners, the property manager, other board members, and the outside community. Patience and flexibility are key qualities for the position. You must make every decision in a fair and just manner, avoiding favoritism and making decisions in self-interest.
The HOA’s bylaws
usually dictate how often a new president should be elected. If not, it’s a
best practice to re-elect a new president every few years to get a fresh
perspective and also to avoid the potential for embezzlement of the
association’s funds.
The bylaws also
outline the president’s responsibilities, which can vary from one association
to the next. As HOA president, some major responsibilities include the
following:
Presiding over board
meetings. Develop the agenda before the meeting and keep the meetings on track.
Maintaining accurate
records. This is mainly the responsibility of the board secretary, but the
president is ultimately responsible.
Reviewing local laws
before passing rules. HOAs are dictated by state laws; the president is
responsible for understanding the laws that apply to the association.
Communicating frequently
and consistently with the association. This includes distributing copies of
board meeting minutes and keeping all homeowners informed of changes.
Monitoring the
association’s activities on a daily basis. Carry out day-to-day administration
of association policies set by the board, and ensure that projects are
completed.
Working with the
board to develop a budget and a plan for reserve funds. This is mainly the
responsibility of the board treasurer, but the president is ultimately
responsible.
Executing contracts,
bank documents and other legal documents on behalf of the association as its
agent. As a best practice, obtain three bids for every contract to ensure that
you receive a fair price.
Outside the Scope of a President’s Role
While HOA presidents have many responsibilities, there are some matters that fall outside of their scope. Presidents are not property managers. An HOA usually hires a property management company or a property manager to monitor the day-to-day activities of the association. In fact, it’s unwise to have the president also serve as the property manager, as it increases the chance of fraud or inaccurate bookkeeping. An HOA president interacts with property managers, acting as a liaison between the property management company and the HOA’s board.
Presidents are
also not “property police,” and should not be responsible for enforcing
swimming pool hours, removing children from the fitness center, etc.
Risks of the HOA or Condo President’s Role
As president of
your HOA, you must identify and address the risks of your position. You will be
the person that homeowners go to when they have a problem; and with owning
property, problems are inevitable. Since homeowners have a high personal stake
in their investments, it’s natural to assume they will be frustrated if their
concerns and issues are not resolved in a timely manner or in their favor. Your
role may come with more liability than you expected. Lawsuits can result from
homeowners who aren’t satisfied or think their concerns haven’t been properly
addressed by the board.
Similar to the
director or officer of a corporation, an HOA president also has fiduciary
responsibilities. This means that a good faith effort must be made to make
decisions in the best interest of the association. Presidents breach their
fiduciary duties when they act negligently, commit a crime or benefit
personally at the expense of the HOA.
Poor and
infrequent communication can lead to additional problems when homeowners are
uninformed of decisions or changes. You must ensure that communication between
the homeowners, the property manager and the other board members keeps all
parties up to date of the happenings in the association.
How to Mitigate the Risks
One of the
primary ways to mitigate the risks of your position is to build a solid,
knowledge base of the HOA’s governing documents and applicable local laws. Even
if you are fairly new to the position, you will still be expected to make
informed decisions in the best interest of the association.
Also,
familiarize yourself with the history of the HOA, including past plans by the
board and how issues were previously handled. Make sure you are consistent with
handling issues as they’ve been handled in the past and don’t spring drastic,
despotic changes on members. Know your fiduciary duties and make sure every
decision the board makes is made in good faith and in the members’ best
interest.
When working
with the board focus on creating and setting policies, but leave the
implementation and enforcement of those policies to the property management
company. As president, you oversee the administration of the association, but
you should not be monitoring day-to-day activities.
You can also mitigate risks in the following ways:
Foster team spirit
in the association and encourage team building.
Communicate
consistently between the property manager and the board.
Consult an attorney
before getting involved in legal disputes.
Avoid letting
personality differences with other board members prevent the board from getting
work done.
Spend money
prudently and build a sound financial future for the community. Obtain advice
from a financial advisor, if necessary.
Preserve and enhance
all common areas, which is one of the reasons people want to join HOAs.
If you have additional questions about the risks of serving as an HOA or condo president or as an association board member, contact GDI Insurance Agency, Inc. today at 209-634-2929.
California’s Leader in Insurance and Risk Management
As one of the fastest growing agencies in California, GDI Insurance Agency, Inc. is able to provide its clients with the latest and greatest of what the insurance industry has to offer and much, much more.
We are headquartered in Turlock, CA, with locations across the heart of California’s Central Valley, Northern California and beyond to provide a local feel to the solutions and services we provide our clients. We pride ourselves on exceeding our client’s expectations in every interaction to make sure that our client’s know how much we value and appreciate their business. Contact us today 1-209-634-2929 for your comprehensive HOA or Condo Association insurance quote!
For some people, being ready for swimming pool season has everything to do with bathing suits. For us at GDI Insurance Agency, Inc., it is about keeping your swimming pool safe. Though splashing and diving is carefree fun, owning a backyard pool comes with serious responsibilities, too. From poolside party safety tips to supervision, there are many general safety precautions you can take to make sure your friends and family enjoy your pool safely.
Summer Swimming Pool Safety
Here are some general recommendations for swimming pool safety:
Install a fence with
self-locking and -closing gates to completely isolate your pool from your house
and the areas around it.
Do not leave your
children or guests alone in the event that they would need assistance.
Teach pool rules to
your children and guests and post them in a highly visible location.
Do not stick your
fingers in grates and filters.
Do not swim for at
least 30 minutes if you hear thunder or see lightning.
Use these tips to prepare yourself in the event of an emergency:
Take lifeguard, first
aid and CPR courses in case anyone needs assistance while on your property. Once
old enough, your children should receive this same training.
Enroll your children
in swimming classes led by a qualified swim instructor.
Keep rescue equipment
and a telephone to call 911 close to the pool area.
Place emergency
numbers and CPR instructions close to the pool.
When hosting a pool party at home, it is wise to assign several adults to the job of “lifeguard” for all swimmers. These individuals should not drink alcohol and should stay on constant alert for swimmers in distress.
Keeping Cool During the Hot Summer
Fun in the sun is even better when you have a swimming pool in your backyard to stay cool on hot, summer days. Despite all the entertainment that a swimming pool offers, there are also homeowner liabilities. To help you minimize your risk, we’ve gathered some safety tips to keep you in the know as you swim.
Swimming Pool Safety and Liability Precautions
To Minimize Drowning Risks:
Install safety fences
around the pool with a locked latch and place a cover over the pool when you
are not using it.
Always supervise
welcome swimmers at all times.
Keep lifesaving
equipment near the pool and learn how to properly use it.
Do not allow swimmers
to horseplay in the pool.
To Minimize Disease Risks:
Keep the pool water properly filtered and chemically treated.
Do not allow swimmers to drink pool water.
Keep pets out of the pool.
Do not allow swimmers with open wounds or illnesses to go in the water.
Do not allow babies to swim unless they are wearing swim diapers.
To Minimize Chemical Risks:
Avoid over-shocking
the pool; keep chemicals at the proper levels.
Follow manufacturer’s
instructions carefully when adding chemicals to the pool or filtration system.
Store chemicals in a cool, dry place where they are away from fire hazards and lawn care products.
Safety First
As the homeowner, you are liable for the safety of all swimmers. To ensure that you can adequately protect people on your property, consider taking lifeguarding, CPR and first aid courses so you know what to do in an emergency. The City of Turlock offers CPR classes, you can find out more here.
California’s Leader in Insurance and Risk Management
As one of the fastest growing agencies in California, GDI Insurance Agency, Inc. is able to provide its clients with the latest and greatest of what the insurance industry has to offer and much, much more.
We are headquartered in Turlock, CA, with locations across the heart of California’s Central Valley, Northern California and beyond to provide a local feel to the solutions and services we provide our clients. We pride ourselves on exceeding our client’s expectations in every interaction to make sure that our client’s know how much we value and appreciate their business. Contact us today 1-209-634-2929 for your comprehensive home insurance quote!
Each year more than 3,275 people die and 15,575 are injured in home fires in the United States. To protect yourself, it is important to understand the basics about house fires. Fire spreads quickly; there is no time to gather valuables or make a phone call. In just two minutes, a fire can become life-threatening. In five minutes, a residence can be engulfed in flames. It is important to make sure you are prepared for a home fire.
It can happen so fast! My daughter and her girlfriend adopted 4 baby chicks to raise at her friend’s house. The chicks were kept in a container, there was an electric heater keeping the chicks warm in the garage. Overnight, the garage caught fire and it spread to the house. Luckily, no one was hurt, everyone escaped, but the house was a total loss.
Heat and smoke from a home fire can be more dangerous than the flames.
Inhaling the super-hot air can sear your lungs. Fire produces poisonous gases that make you disoriented and drowsy. Instead of being awakened by a fire, you may fall into a deeper sleep. Asphyxiation is the leading cause of fire deaths, exceeding burns by a 3 to 1 ratio.
What You Need To Know About A Home Fire
Every day, Americans experience
the horror of fire but most people don’t understand it.
Fire is FAST
In less than 30
seconds, a small flame can get completely out of control and turn into a major
fire. It only takes minutes for thick black smoke to fill a house or for it to
be engulfed in flames. Most deadly fires occur in the home when people are
asleep. If you wake up to a fire, you won’t have time to grab valuables because
fire spreads too quickly and the smoke is too thick. There is only time to
escape.
Fire is HOT
Heat is more dangerous
than flames. A fire’s heat alone can kill. Room temperatures in a fire can be
100 degrees at floor level and rise to 600 degrees at eye level. Inhaling this
super-hot air will scorch your lungs. This heat can melt clothes to your skin.
In five minutes, a room can get so hot that everything in it ignites at once;
this is called flashover.
Fire is DARK
Fire isn’t bright—it’s
pitch black. Fire starts bright, but quickly produces black smoke and complete
darkness. If you wake up to a fire you may be blinded, disoriented and unable
to find your way around the home you’ve lived in for years.
Fire is DEADLY
Smoke and toxic
gases kill more people than flames do. Fire uses up the oxygen you need and
produces smoke and poisonous gases. Breathing even small amounts of smoke and
toxic gases can make you drowsy, disoriented and short of breath. The odorless,
colorless fumes can lull you into a deep sleep before the flames reach your
door. You may not wake up in time to escape.
Only when you know the true nature of fire can you prepare your families and yourselves.
Prepare Before a Home Fire
Fire Escape Plan
In the event of a fire, remember
that every second counts, so you and your family must always be prepared.
Escape plans help you get out of your home quickly.
Twice each year, practice your
home fire escape plan. These tips can help you prepare your plan:
Find two ways to get out of each room.
If
the primary way is blocked by fire or smoke, you will need a second way out. A
secondary route might be a window onto a neighboring roof or a collapsible
ladder for escape from upper story windows.
Only
purchase collapsible ladders evaluated by a nationally recognized laboratory.
Make sure that windows are not stuck, screens
can be taken out quickly and security bars can be opened.
Practice feeling your way out of the house in
the dark or with your eyes closed.
Windows and doors with security bars must have
quick release devices to allow them to be opened immediately in an emergency.
Make sure everyone in the family understands and practices how to properly
operate and open locked or barred doors and windows.
Teach children not to hide from firefighters.
Escaping the Fire
Make sure windows are not nailed or painted
shut. Make sure security gratings on windows have a fire safety opening feature
so they can be easily opened from the inside.
Consider escape ladders if your residence has
more than one level.
Teach family members to stay low to the floor
(where the air is safer in a fire) when escaping from a fire.
Clean out storage areas. Do not let trash such
as old newspapers and magazines accumulate.
Fire Escape Planning for Older Adults and People with Access or Functional Needs
Live near an exit. You’ll be safest on the
ground floor if you live in an apartment building. If you live in a multi-story
home, arrange to sleep on the ground floor, and near an exit.
If you use a walker or wheelchair, check all
exits to make sure you can get through the doorways.
Make any necessary accommodations, such as
providing exit ramps and widening doorways, to facilitate an emergency escape.
Speak to your family members, building manager
or neighbors about your fire safety plan and practice it with them.
Contact your local fire department’s
non-emergency line and explain your special needs. Ask emergency providers to
keep your special needs information on file.
Keep a phone near your bed and be ready to call
911 if a fire occurs.
Smoke Alarms Are Essential
A properly installed and maintained smoke alarm is the only thing in your home that can alert you and your family to a home fire 24 hours a day, seven days a week. A working smoke alarm significantly increases your chances of surviving a deadly home fire.
Install both ionization AND photoelectric smoke
alarms, or dual sensor smoke alarms, which contain both ionization and
photoelectric smoke sensors.
Test batteries monthly.
Replace batteries in battery-powered and
hard-wired smoke alarms at least once a year (except non-replaceable 10-year
lithium batteries)
Install smoke alarms on every level of your
home, including the basement. The U.S. Fire Administration recommends
installing smoke alarms both inside and outside of sleeping areas.
Always follow the manufacturer’s installation
instructions when installing smoke alarms.
Replace the entire smoke alarm unit every eight
to 10 years or according to manufacturer’s instructions.
Never disable a smoke alarm while cooking—it can
be a deadly mistake. Open a window or door and press the “hush” button, wave a
towel at the alarm to clear the air or move the entire alarm several feet away
from the location.
More Home Fire Safety Tips
Sleep with your door closed.
Only those trained in the proper use and
maintenance of fire extinguishers should consider using them when appropriate.
Contact your local fire department for information on training in your area and
what kind to buy for your home.
Consider installing an automatic fire sprinkler
system in your residence.
Ask your local fire department to inspect your
residence for fire safety and prevention.
What To Do During a Home Fire
Crawl low under any smoke to your exit—heavy smoke and poisonous gases collect first along the ceiling.
When the smoke alarm sounds, get out fast. You may have only seconds to escape a home fire safely.
If there is smoke blocking your door or first way out, use your second way out.
Smoke is toxic. If you must escape through smoke, get low and go under the smoke to your way out.
Before opening a door, feel the doorknob and door. If either is hot, leave the door closed and use your second way out.
If there is smoke coming around the door, leave the door closed and use your second way out.
If you open a door, open it slowly. Be ready to shut it quickly if heavy smoke or fire is present.
If you can’t get to someone who needs assistance, leave the home and call 911, or tell firefighters if they are already at the scene. Tell the 911 dispatcher or the firefighters where the person is located.
If pets are trapped inside your home, tell firefighters right away.
If you can’t get out, close the door and cover vents and cracks around doors with cloth or tape to keep smoke out. Call 911. Say where you are and signal for help at the window with a light-colored cloth or a flashlight.
If your clothes catch fire, stop moving immediately, drop to the ground and cover your face with your hands, and roll over and over or back and forth until the fire is out. If you or someone else cannot stop, drop and roll, smother the flames with a blanket or towel. Use cool water to treat the burn immediately. Cover with a clean, dry cloth. Get medical help right away.
How To Recover After a Home Fire
Recovering from a fire can be a
physically and mentally draining process. When fire strikes, lives are suddenly
turned around. Often, the hardest part is knowing where to begin and who to
contact. The following checklist serves as a quick reference guide for you to
follow after a fire strikes.
Contact a local disaster relief service, such as The Red Cross, if you need temporary housing, food and medicines.
If you are insured, contact your insurance company for detailed instructions on protecting the property, conducting inventory and contacting fire damage restoration companies. If you are not insured, try contacting private organizations for aid and assistance.
Check with the fire department to make sure your residence is safe to enter. Be watchful of any structural damage caused by the fire.
The fire department should make sure utilities are either safe to use or are disconnected before they leave the site. DO NOT attempt to reconnect utilities yourself.
Conduct an inventory of damaged property and items. Do not throw away any damaged goods until after an inventory is made.
Try to locate valuable documents and records. Refer to information on contacts and the replacement process inside this brochure.
If you leave your home, contact the local police department to let them know the site will be unoccupied.
Begin saving receipts for any money you spend related to fire loss. The receipts may be needed later by the insurance company and for verifying losses claimed on income tax.
Notify your mortgage company of the fire.
Check with an accountant or the Internal Revenue Service about special benefits for people recovering from fire loss.
Download our Home Inventory Checklist
In addition to insuring your home, GDI Insurance Agency, Inc. is committed to helping you and your loved ones stay safe when disaster strikes. If you would like more information on developing a family emergency plan or building a disaster supply kit, please contact us at 209-634-2929 today.
The biggest investment most of us make is the purchase of our home. It’s been the “American Dream” for generations. Owning more than one home can be part of a long term financial strategy or perhaps to have a “home away from home.” Many people acquire a second home, either as a vacation home, a home to retire to or to have to build out their portfolio. Find out the important facts on insuring your second home.
GDI Insurance Agency, Inc. has the experience you need when insuring a second home. Contact us today 209-634-2929!
What
Coverage Options Are There?
At a
minimum, your lender will require that you carry hazard insurance to protect
your property against damage from fires, earthquakes or severe storms. It is
also a good idea to add liability insurance, which covers you and members of
your household for accidental injuries to your visitors. Opting for property
plus liability insurance adds up to a standard homeowners insurance package.
For an extra layer of protection, a personal umbrella liability policy extends
your liability coverage for properties named in the policy.
Dwelling Fire Insurance
Since most
homeowner policies require occupancy as a condition of insurance, the fact that
you visit infrequently may preclude you from obtaining full homeowners
coverage. Dwelling fire insurance is an alternate coverage option utilized in
insuring residential rental or non-owner occupancy property, including vacant
property.
A dwelling
fire policy continues to offer coverage for a home and other structures (e.g.,
detached sheds or garages) for perils named in the policy. Named perils listed
in a typical dwelling fire policy protect against damage caused by fire,
collapse, lightning strike, wind, hail, explosion and smoke. For more coverage,
consider adding personal property protection and liability insurance to a
dwelling fire policy.
Renting Out Your Home to Others?
Whether your
second property is an apartment unit or a family home, if you are renting the
property, you will have little control over the physical damage that can occur
in or on it. To mitigate your risks, tenant-occupied dwelling insurance will
cover the costs incurred by damage, including fire, storms, burglary and
vandalism. It does not cover your tenant’s personal property.
Renting your
property furnished or unfurnished also has insurance coverage implications. If
you are renting your property furnished, make sure to let us know. We can
advise you on the best coverage options and whether you need to consider
requiring longer-term tenants to carry additional renters insurance.
As with all homeowners insurance, it is important to be sure that there is enough coverage to protect all of your property values and assets when purchasing coverage.
Protecting Your Personal Property
You may be considering renting out your home for extra income while you’re away at your second home or for an extended period of time. Though this seems like an ideal solution for families with extra room to spare, it can pose liabilities. Take the following considerations to heart in order to protect your home.
Renting Your Home or Your Second Home
Ask for references from potential renters, especially those that will stay for a while.
Draw up a rental agreement that defines the terms of the rental, including restrictions, liabilities and occupancy guidelines.
Request a security deposit that is to be refunded if there is no damage to your home.
Advise GDI Insurance Agency, Inc. that you plan to rent out your home and ask about how this may affect your current coverage.
Consider hiring a
property manager to look out for your home if you are renting for a long period
of time.
Set aside a secure
place in your home to store personal items, such as clothing and valuables.
Take pictures of all
areas of your home before the rental takes place in case damage occurs while
you are away.
Have your mail
forwarded or held until you return.
Provide your contact
information to both the renters and your neighbors in case of an emergency.
Checking the references of
potential renters is vital when determining if you will open your home to
strangers. If you uncover any red flags while checking references, do not agree
to rent your home, even if you are afraid of hurting someone’s feelings. Your
first priority should be to protect yourself and your property.
Cost Considerations
Whether your second home is reserved for your private use or
shared as a rental, it costs more to insure than your primary residence. This
is because premiums are based on a variety of factors such the amount of time
that your home will be unoccupied, its location and the liability from renting
the property.
Depending on the location and type of second home, risk of earthquake, wildfire or even a pool can push up your premiums or make coverage difficult to obtain. If you are considering the purchase of a second home, contact us to learn more about the cost of insuring a second home.
California’s Leader in Insurance and Risk Management
As one of the fastest growing agencies in California, GDI Insurance Agency, Inc. is able to provide its clients with the latest and greatest of what the insurance industry has to offer and much, much more.
We are headquartered in Turlock, CA, with locations across the heart of California’s Central Valley, Northern California and beyond to provide a local feel to the solutions and services we provide our clients. We pride ourselves on exceeding our client’s expectations in every interaction to make sure that our client’s know how much we value and appreciate their business. Contact us today 1-209-634-2929 for your comprehensive second home insurance quote!
We use cookies to optimize our website and our service.
Functional cookies
Always active
The technical storage or access is strictly necessary for the legitimate purpose of enabling the use of a specific service explicitly requested by the subscriber or user, or for the sole purpose of carrying out the transmission of a communication over an electronic communications network.
Preferences
The technical storage or access is necessary for the legitimate purpose of storing preferences that are not requested by the subscriber or user.
Statistics
The technical storage or access that is used exclusively for statistical purposes.The technical storage or access that is used exclusively for anonymous statistical purposes. Without a subpoena, voluntary compliance on the part of your Internet Service Provider, or additional records from a third party, information stored or retrieved for this purpose alone cannot usually be used to identify you.
Marketing
The technical storage or access is required to create user profiles to send advertising, or to track the user on a website or across several websites for similar marketing purposes.
