As temperatures rise, so do the risks of wildfires. In 2023, the National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC) reported more than 55,000 wildfires burning 2.7 million acres across the United States*. If you live in a wildfire-prone area, being prepared is crucial. Luckily, we have some tips to help you get started. 

Here are steps to potentially reduce the spread of flames toward your home:

  • Create a defensible space: Establish a clear zone between your home and any nearby grass, trees, shrubs, or wild-land areas. This buffer can significantly slow down or halt the progress of a wildfire. 
  • Remove potential hazards: Regularly clear debris from your roof, gutters, and yard to minimize fuel for fires. 
  • Prepare your home: Upgrade your home with features like vulcan vents, gutter guards, and fire-resistant windows and doors to enhance its ability to withstand wildfires. 
  • Check your landscaping: Maintain well-pruned trees, keep shrubs away from your house, and opt for fire-resistant plants when landscaping around your property.

Additional resources: 

Questions about wildfire in relation to your Bamboo homeowners policy? Reach out to your Bamboo Sales Advocate today. 

 

*Source: disasterphilanthropy.org 

We know what some of you are thinking – earthquake insurance is one of those unnecessary coverages that you’ll pay for, but probably won’t end up using. We’re here to shake that thinking up (pun intended). If you’re in an area that’s prone to earthquakes or has experienced an earthquake in the past few decades, it’s worth it to look into getting earthquake insurance. Earthquakes can cause intense damage, costing thousands of dollars. In fact, a report conducted in 2023 by the U.S. Geological Survey and FEMA estimates that earthquake damage costs the U.S. $14.7 billion dollars annually – an increase of 140% over the previous estimate from 2017.*

What is earthquake insurance, and what does it cover? 

Earthquake insurance is a specialized type of insurance designed specifically for covering the cost and repairs of damage caused by earthquakes (since your standard homeowners won’t).  Earthquake insurance coverage ranges from structural damage to your home (e.g., your roof, damaged walls, etc.) to replacement of personal property (e.g., your furniture, appliances, etc.). If you need to find a temporary place to stay, it can also help to cover those expenses. Keep in mind, this isn’t a one-policy-covers-all type of insurance, so make sure you run through the details of exactly what your specific earthquake insurance policy covers with your agent. 

Why do I need earthquake insurance? I have a homeowners policy. 

Your homeowners policy will cover many things; but one thing it doesn’t cover is damage to your home, structures, and personal property caused by earth movement (i.e., an earthquake). If your home is in an earthquake-prone area, we highly recommend looking into obtaining earthquake insurance. Good news! Our Bamboo Insurance Agency can help with finding options for you. 

What factors impact the cost of earthquake insurance? 

When obtaining earthquake insurance, your location, the cost of rebuilding your home, and risk tolerance are considered. All these factors impact the cost.  

Does my renters insurance cover earthquakes? 

Unfortunately, it doesn’t. Renters insurance is great for covering situations like vandalism, theft, fire, and other events; however, it generally doesn’t cause damage directly caused by earthquakes. 

Which one is better to have? Homeowners/renters or earthquake? 

If you live in an earthquake-prone area, you should look at obtaining both. Let’s say an earthquake causes a fire, and that fire causes damage to your home. In that situation, your homeowners or renters insurance policy would come in for the save. However, if the earthquake directly causes damage to your home, that’s when that earthquake insurance would really come in handy. 

Looking to learn more and potentially get earthquake coverage? 

Connect with one of our experienced Bamboo Agents 👉 Contact Us Page

 

*Source: temblor.net

As we continued to hear about the devastation caused by the wildfires in Maui, only to be followed weeks later by the unprecedented tropical storm Hilary impacting Southern California, our hearts, thoughts, and prayers were immediately directed to those impacted. But we knew that wasn’t enough.  

As a team, we came together and expedited the launch of a company-wide fundraiser supporting the American Red Cross with their relief efforts. We chose to support the American Red Cross because of their unwavering efforts being hyper-focused on helping residents as quickly as possible by providing them a safe place to stay, food to eat, and emotional support – all at no cost to them. For every $1 that our employees voluntarily donated, Bamboo Insurance matched (up to $5k). 

We’re incredibly humbled by our team to have been able to collectively raise and donate over $4.9k to the American Red Cross. While we understand money will never come close to replacing what was lost for most, we hope it can do a little bit of good for someone who’s going through an impossible time in their life. As an organization, we continue to send love to those impacted by these disasters. 

Tropical Storm Hilary is expected to bring heavy rainfall and wind to Southern California starting Saturday, 8/19. You and your family’s safety are of the utmost importance, so we’ve provided some top tips on preparedness below.  

  • Know your zones: You can find this by searching evacuation zones/mapping for your area. 
  • Pack your emergency kit: Have an emergency kit ready that can easily move around with you. While you’re at it, check the batteries in your flashlights and assess any other equipment used in these situations, like storm shutters or generators. 
  • Review your family emergency plan: Go over with your family where everyone will go and how to get in contact with each other. 
  • Bring in loose outdoor items: Items like patio furniture, umbrellas, kids toys, etc. should be moved into the garage or an area where they aren’t susceptible to being blown over/away by high winds.

Find more tips and helpful information here at weather.gov. 

After the storm, if you notice any damage to your property, we’re here for you. Get started on filing a claim right away by calling (877) 333-6938. (You’ll need your Bamboo Policy Number.) 

We’re continuing to think of those in the projected path of Tropical Storm Hilary, and wish for nothing but safety for you and your family.