Are You Prepared?

Mother Nature can create havoc when we least expect it.  The devastation in Japan following the earth quake and tsunami, the tornados that ripped across the south, the recent flooding from the mighty Mississippi, have left thousands at a complete loss of what to do next.  Below are four steps to putting an emergency plan in place.

1.  Fill out the Emergency Planning Guide and Organizer.  Have one copy in a portable file in case you need to leave at a moment’s notice.  Provide another copy to a trusted professional (Financial Advisor, Attorney, CPA) or an out-of-town relative to be the point person.  With this Organizer you will also need some cash in case you cannot access an ATM.
2. If you don't have one already, build an Emergency Fund.  Somewhere in the range of three to six months of living expenses in a liquid account in case you have to be evacuated and will have to rely on lodging, food, and other living expenses while you’re away from your home.
3. Create a Home Inventory.  Do you have photos or video supporting your insurance claims?  Electronics, appliances, antiques, collectibles, clothes, come to mind.  Supply a copy of the photos/video to your point person.
4. Review your Insurance Policy every three years.  Are you on a fault line, 100 year flood zone?  Make sure you review the extra coverage that are not normally covered by a standard homeowners policy.

When you’re in a crisis, it’s hard to think calmly and clearly about the best course of action.  Set aside 30 minutes to complete the Emergency Planning Guide and Organizer today and save yourself a few headaches down the road