Archives for October 2016

Home Inventory

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homeCan you list everything you own from memory? Didn’t think so.

One of our favorite sayings is: “Home is where the heart is.” That saying rings true for many who find “home” a safe haven and a place to cherish, convene with family and friends, raise children, cook meals, rest, retire and celebrate.

Most will agree a home is not just a pile of bricks and mortar. Rather, a true “home” comprises much more, including everything inside it.

Some of the things inside your house that helps make it your home include your furniture and appliances, clothing, sports equipment, and electronic goods. These items are considered personal property – and it’s really important to protect it all.

How do I protect what really makes my house a home?

Protecting the important stuff inside your home begins with an understanding what you have. If you’re like many people, you may find your home contains much more personal property than you realize.

To understand how much stuff you have, develop a careful inventory of your personal property following these tips.

  • Use a video camera to record and audibly describe items as you move through your home. If you don’t have access to a video camera, use a standard camera or phone camera.
  • Whether you use still photos or video to develop your inventory, include brand names and descriptions where possible, especially on high-cost items.
  • Keep any and all receipts on high-dollar purchases. Keep these receipts filed together with any instruction booklets, warranties, etc. that accompany the items.
  • Store your video or photo inventory offsite or back it up with an additional drive.
  • When you make new purchases, be sure to add them to your inventory.

Download Your Free Home Inventory Worksheet Today!

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If you have high-value items, be sure to check with your agent at CityScape Insurance so we can review your homeowners coverage to make sure you’re properly protected.  We understand that your home is not just a house, and we are here to help ensure that everything important to you is protected—both outside and inside your home.

Fire Safety Awareness

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Did you know residential fires are a primary cause of property damage and injury in the United States today?

Fire Safety Awareness


According to the National Fire Prevention Association or NFPA, 78% of all fire related deaths occur in residential homes. Below are some fire safety awareness tips that will help keep your family and home safe.

Most residential fires occur in the kitchen. Here are some things to keep in mind when you are cooking to reduce your risk of fire:

  • Never Leave Cooking Food Unattended
  • Always Watch Food While Frying
  • Avoid Placing Flammable Items Too Close To The Stove
  • Don’t Cook While Drinking Alcohol
  • Keep A Fire Extinguisher On Hand At All Times
  • Never Pour Water On A Grease Fire
  • Always Watch Children Around Cooking Food

Smoking is another common source of accidental fires at home. If you smoke always keep these tips in mind:

  • Never Smoke Indoors
  • Don’t Smoke While Drinking Alcohol
  • Avoid Smoking While Taking Medication That Causes Drowsiness
  • Don’t Smoke If You Have Oxygen Tanks Inside Your Home

If you have a fireplace, you must inspect it before using it every winter. This will ensure no hidden dangers exist. Always check for:

  • Birds Nests In The Chimney
  • Build-Up Of Black Creosote Inside Your Chimney
  • Warped Metal Around The Damper

Most appliances we use everyday need electricity to work. This increases the risk of fire. To reduce your fire risk remember the following tips:

  • Don’t Overload Your Electrical Circuits
  • Avoid Using Extension Cords For Long Periods Of Time
  • Be Sure Your Electrical Cords Are Not Frayed
  • Call An Electrician To Check Abnormal Electrical Activity
  • Never Leave Christmas Lights On Overnight

Inspecting your home every few months is key to reducing the likelihood of residential fires. Most home fires are preventable and it is well worth the extra effort it takes to inspect your home for potential hazards. Check all the smoke detectors in your home for batteries that need to be replaced and to ensure they all work.