Michelle Kuschel

Spring is on its way!!!

Here are some insurance tips to help you stay safe and prepared during storm season:

• Review Your Insurance Policies: Understand your homeowners or renters insurance policy, especially coverage for wind, hail, and flood damage. Many standard policies do not cover flood damage, so you may need a separate flood insurance policy.

• Document Your Property: Take photos or videos of your home and belongings before storm season starts. This documentation can be helpful when filing a claim if your property is damaged.

• Create an Inventory: Keep an updated inventory of your possessions, including receipts and serial numbers. This can expedite the claims process after a storm. If you have valuable collections you may want to cover them differently.

• Know Your Deductibles: Be aware of your policy’s deductibles, especially for wind and flood damage. This will help you understand your financial responsibility in the event of a claim.

• Check for Discounts: Some insurance companies offer discounts for storm preparedness measures, such as installing , reinforcing roofs, or having a monitored security system. Check with your insurer to see what discounts you may qualify for.

• Review Emergency Preparedness Plans: Ensure you have an emergency plan in place, including evacuation routes, emergency contacts, and a supply kit. Share this information with all household members.

• Stay Informed: Keep track of weather forecasts and alerts. Having a weather radio or a reliable weather app can help you stay updated on storm conditions.

• Secure Your Property: Before a storm, secure outdoor furniture, decorations, and other items that could become projectiles in high winds. This can help minimize damage to your property and that of your neighbors.

• Understand Claim Processes: Familiarize yourself with the claims process. Knowing how to file a claim and what documentation is needed can save time in an emergency.

• Consider Additional Coverage: Depending on your location, you might want to consider additional coverage options, such as hurricane or tornado insurance, to better protect your home.

• Update Your Contact Information: Ensure that your insurance company has your current contact information, so they can reach you easily if needed.

• Seek Professional Advice: If you have questions about your coverage or need help understanding policy details, consider consulting with your insurance agent.

By taking these steps, you can help protect yourself and your property during storm season and ensure that you're adequately covered in case of damage.

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protecting you home during storm season

Protecting your home during storm season is crucial to minimizing damage and ensuring the safety of your family. Here are some effective ideas to safeguard your home:

1. Inspect and Maintain Your Roof

• Check for Damage: Inspect your roof for missing or damaged shingles, leaks, or sagging areas.

• Clear Debris: Remove leaves, branches, and other debris from the roof and gutters to prevent water buildup.

2. Secure Windows and Doors

• Install Storm Shutters: Use storm shutters or plywood to protect windows from flying debris.

• Reinforce Doors: Ensure that doors are solid and can withstand high winds. Consider installing deadbolts and reinforcing door frames.

3. Clear the Yard

• Remove Loose Items: Bring in or secure outdoor furniture, decorations, and potted plants that could become projectiles.

• Trim Trees and Shrubs: Prune trees and shrubs to remove weak branches that could fall during a storm.

4. Seal Entry Points

• Check for Gaps: Inspect windows, doors, and other entry points for gaps and seal them with caulk or weather stripping to prevent water intrusion.

5. Prepare Your Garage

• Secure Garage Doors: Make sure garage doors are reinforced and properly closed. Consider installing a brace for extra stability during high winds.

• Move Vehicles: If possible, park vehicles in the garage or away from large trees.

6. Create a Drainage Plan

• Clear Drains and Gutters: Ensure that drains and gutters are clear to allow water to flow freely.

• Consider Landscaping: Grade your yard away from your home to direct water away from the foundation.

7. Have an Emergency Kit

• Assemble Supplies: Create an emergency kit with food, water, medications, flashlights, batteries, and a first-aid kit.

• Include Important Documents: Keep copies of important documents (insurance policies, identification) in a waterproof container.

8. Develop an Evacuation Plan

• Know Your Routes: Familiarize yourself with local evacuation routes and have a plan for where to go if you need to leave.

• Communicate with Family: Ensure all family members know the plan and where to meet if separated.

9. Install a Backup Power Source

• Consider a Generator: If power outages are common in your area, consider investing in a generator to keep essential appliances running.

10. Stay Informed

• Monitor Weather Updates: Use weather apps or local news to stay updated on storm forecasts and alerts.

• Sign Up for Alerts: Register for emergency alerts from local authorities to receive timely information.

11. Consider Flood Barriers

• If you live in a flood-prone area, consider installing flood barriers or sandbags to protect entry points.

12. Check Insurance Coverage

• Review Policies: Ensure that your homeowners or renters insurance covers storm-related damage, including wind and flood coverage.

By taking these proactive measures, you can significantly reduce the risk of damage to your home during storm season and keep your family safe.

Michelle Kuschel State Farm

Choosing to become a State Farm agent has proven to be the most rewarding career decision I have made. I feel fortunate to have the opportunity to assist individuals in our community and beyond, offering them exceptional State Farm products.

The role of insurance professionals has evolved beyond simply providing information. Today, it involves assisting consumers in navigating through a sea of information to identify their specific needs and offer tailored plans. Our goal is to offer a range of options that safeguard individuals from the everyday risks they face. We focus on in life insurance, auto insurance, home/condo/renters' insurance, income protection policies, business policies, commercial insurance, and products that promote a secure financial future.

We are fortunate to have a team that shares our philosophy of going above and beyond. We treat our customers like family, addressing their concerns, providing education when necessary, and offering guidance whenever they need it. Our customers are an integral part of our family, and we deeply value the relationships we have built over the years through our commitment to excellence and integrity.

Please let us know how we can make your experience more enjoyable, informative, and tailored to your specific needs.