In light of the horrific fires and events currently unfolding in Los Angeles, it’s more important than ever to take proactive steps to protect yourself, your family, and your home. Natural disasters can strike without warning, leaving little time to prepare. To help, I’ve put together this article with practical tips and tools to ensure you’re ready for whatever comes your way.

Whether you’re safeguarding your home with a detailed inventory, packing for an emergency, or investing in tools to stay connected during a disaster, these steps can make all the difference. Let’s dive into what you can do now to be better prepared. 

Why You Should Record a Home Inventory: An Insurance Tip That Could Save You Time and Money

A valuable tip has been making its rounds, and it’s something everyone should consider doing: recording a detailed video inventory of your home. Whether you’re preparing for a possible disaster or just want peace of mind, this simple step can make a huge difference when dealing with insurance claims.

Why Create a Video Inventory?

Insurance adjusters need a lot of details when processing claims, often more than you’d expect. They’ll want specifics such as:

• The brand of your appliances and electronics.

• How many pairs of shoes you owned, and if they were designer or standard.

• Even surprising details like underwear—how many pairs, their brand, and their age.

Without a detailed inventory, it’s almost impossible to recall everything you owned and provide the level of detail required for a claim. A quick video walkthrough of your home can ensure you’re prepared.

How to Create a Home Inventory

1. Use your phone or camera: Record yourself walking through each room.

2. Open every drawer, cabinet, and closet: Don’t forget storage spaces like the attic, garage, or basement.

3. Describe items aloud: Mention brands, conditions, and any special features of significant belongings.

4. Include outdoor spaces: Record sheds, patio furniture, or anything valuable outside your home.

5. Save your video securely: Upload the footage to a cloud storage service so it’s accessible even if your devices are lost or damaged.

Useful Items to Have in Emergencies

Preparing for potential disasters goes beyond just recording an inventory. Here are a couple of must-have tools that can help keep you connected and prepared:

• GOODaaa Power Bank Wireless Charger 45,800mAh

This versatile power bank is a game-changer. It offers wireless charging, hand-crank functionality, solar charging, and built-in flashlights with SOS and strobe modes. With 15W fast charging, 7 outputs, and 4 inputs, it’s perfect for keeping devices charged during emergencies.

• Garmin Satellite Phone

When cell service is unavailable, a satellite phone like Garmin’s can be a lifesaver. It ensures you stay connected with loved ones or emergency services, no matter how remote your location. Perfect for evacuations, camping trips, or extreme weather scenarios.

Why This Is More Important Than Packing

While it’s essential to pack in an emergency, creating a video inventory could save you even more stress. Insurance companies rely on detailed records to reimburse claims fairly. Without proof, you might not get the full value of your losses.

Don’t Forget the “Six Ps” for Emergency Packing

When preparing for a potential evacuation, keep these essentials in mind:

1. People and pets: Ensure everyone (and furry family members) is safe first.

2. Papers: Grab important documents like IDs, insurance policies, and medical records.

3. Prescriptions: Bring any necessary medications and supplies.

4. Photos: Save irreplaceable memories, whether digital or physical.

5. Personal electronics: Take devices like phones, laptops, chargers, and your power bank.

6. Priceless items: Grab jewelry, heirlooms, or anything with significant value.

Final Thoughts

Taking a few minutes to record a detailed home inventory and investing in emergency tools like a power bank and satellite phone can save you endless stress and make your recovery process much smoother in the event of a disaster. Start now—it’s one of the simplest yet most effective steps you can take to protect yourself and your loved ones.