Insuring Your Home Against the Threat of Fire

Did you know that cooking and home heating are the top causes of residential fires? Did you also know that fire deaths in one- and two-family residences account for far more deaths in most years

than all natural disasters and terrorist actions in the nation combined (“Topical Fire Report Series,” (Volume 10, Issue 7, June 2010)?

How well are you protected against the threat of fire?

In 2009 alone, an estimated 356,200 residential building fires caused 2,480 fatalities, 12,600 injuries, and an estimated loss of $7,259,800,000, reports the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA). According to a 2010 USFA report:

• One- and two-family residential building fires account for 66 percent of all residential building fires, representing the largest subgroup of residential building fires.
• Cooking fires account for 30 percent of one- and two-family residential building fires reported to the fire service.
• The leading causes of larger fires (that are not contained in one room) are electrical malfunctions (17 percent), other unintentional or careless actions (14 percent), and intentional (12 percent).
• One- and two-family residential building fires peak in January and December during the holiday season.

Whether you live in a fire-prone area or not, fire insurance is a worthwhile consideration. Fire insurance varies based on a variety of factors including the extent of coverage, the area where the home is located, market value of the home as well as other risks that might make the home more vulnerable to fires.

Start by assessing the value of your home and in-home assets. Compare that with a quote for fire insurance and calculate your long-term costs. Does your current homeowner's policy protect you against fire damage? Will the long-term cost of fire insurance outweigh the cost of your in-home assets?

Run your questions by an experienced insurance broker. Allied Brokers has over a half century experience in the field of insurance. Speak to an expert who will advice you on your insurance options. Call (650) 328-1000 or visit www.alliedbrokers.com for more information.