Mother Nature was particularly busy last year. Hurricane after terrible hurricane struck the U.S., bringing heavy rains and flooding. In other areas of the country, tornadoes, fires, mudslides and drought were major problems. If you were among the fortunate not affected by a natural disaster, chances are you had to contend with the effects-soaring energy bills, higher insurance costs and other issues. Now, with the benefit of hindsight, homeowners across the United States know the best way to protect themselves-and their property-is to be prepared. In this issue of our newsletter, we'll help you review your options and plan for the worst before disaster strikes.

First, here's a homeowner's exercise you might find eye-opening. Have each family member independently write down their "wish lists" and then compare answers.

Homeowner's Exercise: What's Important To You?

You've just been told you have to evacuate your home-what possessions would you take with you? What if you faced strict limitations on space and time to prepare? Here are three scenarios to consider:

You are given a full eight hours and can pack a car load of items.

You have two hours to pack, but everything must fit into a small rolling suitcase.

You have 15 minutes and you've been told that each family member can take away whatever will fit into a backpack-what few precious items would you choose to save?

Source from yourhome123.com

Attached Images

 

That is an excellent exercise to evaluate your possessions (with the three scenarios). I think we'll be trying that ourselves. I'll be interested to see what the answers are!

Thanks for all this helpful information I would have never thought to do this. Thanks

I'm glad you bumped this thread; I was totally going to do that and then I just clean forgot.

**putting this on to-do list for this week/weekend**

Gives you some things to ponder.. Being that I live in the south and are often pounded by hurricanes, I keep a hurricane box. In it are my keepsakes, babybooks, family photos, and also all my important documents. Birthcertificates, ss cards, house papers, insurance records. I NEVER unpack this box. It stays in my laundry room in the cabinet. When a hurricane comes our way and we have to leave, I grab clothing, toys for the kids, and my box.