07/21/21

Wildfire Evacuations: Tips To Save Time, Money and Stress

Wildfires around Oregon have already sparked several evacuation orders.  But completing these tasks can help save you and your family time, money, and stress before, during, and after a wildfire.

Level 3 evacuation: If you receive the level 3 order, leave your home as soon as possible.

  • When it is safe, let your insurance company know that you have been ordered to evacuate. Confirm your policy coverage, deductible, and specific coverage limits.
  • Save all receipts. Many insurance companies will help cover expenses such as lodging, food, and pet boarding.
  • Work on a home inventory list. 
    • Look through photos and videos to help recall personal items.  There are several Apps that can be downloaded for inventory assistance. 
    • To the best of your ability, write down the age, original cost, and replacement cost of each item.

Level 1 and 2 evacuation:

  • Contact your insurance company to check your policy.
    • Ask about deductible and specific coverage limits
    • Ask about auto coverage. You need comprehensive coverage on your vehicle to cover damage caused by a wildfire.
  • Make a quick home inventory. 
    • Take photos of each room in your home. Do not forget storage areas, such as the attic, shed, and garage.
  • Build a financial backpack. 
    • Gather important financial documents, such as passports, Social Security cards, insurance policies, titles, deeds, and financial accounts.
    • Make copies or scan them to your phone or computer.
  • Place all of the information with your go-bag of emergency supplies so this information is with you when you need to evacuate.

Outside of evacuation zone: The time to prepare is now.

Follow the disaster preparedness tips provided by the division at dfr.oregon.gov/preparenow.

Stay Safe out there.

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