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Community Corner

As We Turn Our Clocks Back, Don't Fall Behind

PCI urges homeowners to check important documents

Hard to believe it, but the winter months are upon us, this Sunday daylight savings comes to an end and we turn back our clocks one hour. As you adjust your clock, it’s also a good time to check and change batteries in your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors, replace furnace filters, clean around your home to prepare for winter, and review your insurance policy and other important documents. The Property Casualty Insurers Association of America (PCI) is offering a quick fall back check list for homeowners, renters, and business owners to review and make sure they are ready for the winter months.

“Digging through that old file cabinet or email is worth your time and effort to find your homeowners policy and make sure it is up to date, and it’s a good time to review and make sure you know how much your deductible is, just in case this winter you end up filing a claim,” said Christopher Hackett, PCI’s director of personal policy.

“It’s also a good time to let your agent know if you’ve done any remodeling to your home. That way you know if something happens, and end up filing a claim your insurer has the most up to date information.”

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PCI’s Fall Back Checklist

1.) Change your clocks back one hour Saturday night before going to bed.

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2.) Change batteries in fire alarms and carbon monoxide detectors-make sure they are functioning correctly-if you don’t have one already it’s a good time to invest in a fire extinguisher

3.) Replace your furnace filters before the winter months. It could possibly lower your bill and prevent possible home fires.

4.) Prepare your home for the winter months-check pipes under sinks to make sure they will get adequate heat and also make sure leaves are out of gutters, and trees trimmed and not hanging over power lines.

 5.) Review your policy-now is the time to check to make sure your policy is up to date and you have the right amount of coverage. Make sure you have the adequate amount of insurance, ask questions about different types of insurance policies, and keep an inventory of the items you have. It might be a good idea to videotape them for documentation.

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