September is National Preparedness Month, and getting your home and savings ready for emergencies is one of the smartest things you can do as a homeowner or renter. Setting aside money or making small maintenance updates now can help cover costly repairs later and equip you to handle whatever life throws your way. Check out our list below for helpful tips.
Start with the exterior of your home
Beginning with these practical steps can help prepare the outside of your home from most weather-related trouble:
- Secure or store outdoor furniture and equipment. Take the time to tie down backyard trampolines and ensure tables and chairs are weighted appropriately.
- Trim trees and remove dead branches. Pay special attention to any limbs that are hanging over your roof or near power lines. If the limbs are large or too high up, call a professional for assistance.
- Keep your drainage working properly. Clean gutters, point downspouts away from your house, and ensure water flows away from your foundation.
- Install storm shutters or impact-resistant windows. Regular glass usually won’t withstand flying branches or debris that can often accompany a late-summer storm.
Safeguarding your interior
The inside of your home needs attention, too. These preparations can save you from unwelcome surprises:
- Service your heating and cooling systems regularly and change the filters. Routine tune-ups can help prevent your AC from failing during a heat wave or your furnace from breaking down in freezing temperatures.
- Check your plumbing. Check for slow leaks or water stains, and learn where your main water shutoff is in case quick action is needed if a pipe bursts.
- Test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Test these monthly and swap out with fresh batteries every year.
- Assemble an emergency kit. Flashlights, batteries, first aid supplies, and enough food and water for a few days is a good start. Store your kit somewhere that’s easily accessible, especially during a power outage.
Your financial safety net
Even with careful planning, disasters can happen when we least expect them. Setting up an emergency fund can help make it financially easier to face any crisis that may arise. It’s ideal to save for three to six months of expenses, and starting with just $25 or $50 from each paycheck can make a real difference. Within one year, you could potentially have saved up to $600 in your emergency fund.
MSGCU is here to help you set up that financial safety net with several savings account options. Read more about our accounts and particularly, our “You-Name-It Savings Account,” which allows you to label your account however you wish (emergencies, rainy day fund, etc.).
For more tips to get started, check out our blog post, or stop by any of our 24 branches to talk with a certified financial counselor about our savings account options.
Protection for your home and auto
MSGCU also offers guidance on how to protect your home and car during a disaster and has teamed up with two insurance partners to help our members save:
Members Home and Auto®: Members Home and Auto offers exclusive insurance discounts* and access to several reputable insurance companies like Citizens, Frankenmuth Insurance, AAA, Progressive, and more. All with just one contact. Call (800) 411-8709 to get a free no-obligation proposal.
TruStage Auto & Home Insurance Program™: TruStage™ Auto & Home Insurance Program** provides top-quality protection designed to fit your budget. You could enjoy discounted rates combined with online convenience and 24/7 claims service. Get a free quote online today or call (855) 589-2146.
Whatever your need is—talking through finances or exploring insurance options—we'd love to help you build the peace of mind that comes with being prepared. Contact us to get started.
*Members Home and Auto® is an independent insurance agency and resident agency of the State of Michigan. Coverage and certain discounts may not be available in all situations and in all states. Coverage is subject to application and underwriting review.
**Auto and Home Insurance Products are issued by leading insurance companies. The insurance offered is not a deposit, and is not federally insured, sold, or guaranteed by any financial institution. Product and features may vary and not be available in all states. ©TruStage
Category: Finance
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