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SARATOGA SPRINGS — Wildfires are torching thousands of acres of land in Utah, with many homeowners being forced to evacuate. But what can you do to protect your property should it come under fire?
It is probably one of the most difficult things to do if given minutes to pack up what belongings you can and leave your home because of the threat of fire. But there is at least one business in the state selling something you can't put a price tag on: peace of mind.
It's an expression used far too often, but for the Woolsey family, it has new meaning: The Saratoga Springs Dump Fire hit far too close to home.
Friday morning, the Woolsey's had a precious few minutes to pack up everything and leave their home, but think about that for a second — a few minutes to pack up everything important, which could be a lifetime worth of possessions.
How do you determine what makes the cut?
"It was my family photos and videos," said Debbie Woolsey. "That was my top priority."
What about CDs or the DVD's in the cupboard? What's the model number and serial number? How do you identify those electronic things, what about your appliances?
–Virginia Hansen
Insurance agents say to take pictures of your belongings, but would you have remembered to take all of your receipts in the heat of the moment as well? That is where Virginia Hansen and her company, Hometown Inventory, comes into play.
Hansen's company works to inventory your entire life by coming into your home and simplifying it on a CD or online. They say it is important because after something happens, you simply forget how much stuff you have when dealing with an insurance company.
Hometown Inventory goes through everything, large to small, to help potential victims of fire or burglary.
"What about CDs or the DVD's in the cupboard? What's the model number and serial number? How do you identify those electronic things, what about your appliances?" Hansen said.
And while Hansen's business is good for residential homes, it is often a good practice and investment for small businesses.
Hansen said you can do it yourself, however, you have to be diligent about noting all of your belongings.
