How to take a home inventory

There are dozens of simple things you can do yourself -- at little or no cost -- to safeguard your family and property against common hazards.

While you can't prevent all bad things from happening, you can prevent quite a few. Invest a little time now and you could save yourself from both heartache and financial pain.

We've gathered useful information to help you enjoy your home to the fullest - to make your home a safe haven in this sometimes dangerous world. You'll find everything from "how-to" guides and emergency checklists to tips on preventing crime.


General Safety Tips and Standard Precautions

Your family's safety is our first priority. That's why it's important to call a professional whenever you have the slightest doubt about your ability to repair or eliminate a safety hazard at home.

Here are some other important precautions to remember:

Electrical hazards - Never attempt to repair your home's fuse box, circuit breaker or other high-voltage electrical systems. One false move could cost you your life. Call a professional electrician instead.

Furnace and hot water heaters - Most manufactured homes are heated by natural gas or propane. These are highly combustible gases that can cause serious injury and even death when not handled properly. If you suspect that your furnace or hot-water heater has a gas leak, open the windows immediately, get your family to a safe location. Call the authorities from another location and report the gas leak immediately.

Fire emergencies - Don't try to save personal belongings in the event of a house fire. Get your family to safety and call the fire department. Resist the temptation to go back into your home to rescue a favorite possession. Property can be replaced - your life cannot.

Severe weather - Waiting too long to find shelter is the biggest mistake people can make when it comes to severe weather. If the weather forecaster announces a tornado warning in your area, seek shelter immediately. Don't wait for another update or a call from a neighbor. If a hurricane is headed toward your area, evacuate to a safe location as soon as possible. Never try to "ride out" a storm.

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All information reprinted with written permission from foremost.com