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In August, FEMA released a new, easy to use National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) Claims Manual. The newly redesigned manual aims to make flood insurance claims and NFIP processes more understandable so policyholders experience consistency and reliability of service.
FEMA scheduled three webinars to explain the changes and orient users to the new structure. If you’re interested in learning more about the new Claims Manual, please register for one of the following webinars.
Nov. 29 - 10- 11:00 AM CST - REGISTER
Nov. 29 - 2- 3:00 PM CST - REGISTER
Nov. 30 - 10- 11:00 AM CST - REGISTER
Space is limited, please sign up today!
The statutory authority granted to the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) expires at 11:59 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 30, 2018. The Administration continues to work with our Congressional colleagues to discuss the importance of NFIP authorization.
Flooding and mudflows, including those that may result from the recent devastating wildfires in California, will continue to significantly affect Americans year-round. A lapse in authorization would mean that the NFIP cannot enter into new flood insurance contract. The renewal of existing policies and new or refinanced mortgages may also be impacted.
If a lapse were to occur, policies that are in effect before the deadline, will remain in effect and claims will continue to be processed.
On Nov. 2, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the National Association of Realtors (NAR) announced an agreement to work together to educate consumers and homebuyers about disaster preparedness. NAR President Elizabeth Mendenhall and FEMA Administrator Brock Long signed the memorandum of agreement at the 2018 REALTORS® Conference & Expo in Boston, MA.
Insurance is the best way for homeowners, renters and businesses to financially protect themselves from losses caused by floods, fires and other disasters. This is an opportunity for FEMA and NAR to collaborate on getting out information about emergency preparedness, insurance, and assistance information to the public.
The agreement allows FEMA and NAR to work together to educate and help the nation prepare for disasters better, while it also allows Realtors® to continue supporting the Realtor Disaster Relief Fund.
According to the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA), December is the peak time of year for home candle fires. Be fire smart as you deck the halls for a festive holiday season with these tips:
• Consider using battery-operated flameless candles, which can look, smell and feel like real candles.
• If you do use lit candles, put them in stable holders and place them where they can’t be knocked over.
• Keep candles at least 12 inches away from anything that burns. Never leave a burning candle alone.
• Water your Christmas trees every day. A dry tree can easily catch on fire.
• Keep your Christmas tree at least three feet away from heat sources like fireplaces, radiators, space heaters, candles or heat vents. Don’t let them block your exits.
• Inspect your holiday lights each year before you put them up. Throw away strands with frayed or pinched wires. Read the manufacturer’s instructions for the number of light strands to connect.
• Turn off all holiday lights before going to bed or leaving your home.
 Find more holiday, Christmas tree, and fire safety information on the USFA Holiday Safety page.
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