Surge protection units can be purchased for the whole house and either installed at the electrical panel or used for individual appliances like TVs and VCRs. A few dollars spent on a surge suppressor is much more inexpensivethat replacing your computer.

High winds can put enough uplift or stress on a roof to lift it. Metalconnectors that attach roof trusses or rafters to walls can significantly enhance a structure’s ability to resist wind damage.

Heavy anchor bolts connecting floor construction to the foundation add structural wind resistance strength.

Inspect your washing machine hoses regularly. Install new hoses at the firstsign of cracks, bubbles or when hoses become stiff. Burst hoses account formillions of dollars in damage each year. It is a good idea to replace hosesevery five years, if not sooner.

Consider turning off the water to the washer when going away for vacation or holidays.

Make sure you have installed smoke detectors where needed, test them periodically and replace batteries at least twice a year. An early warning canbe critical in saving your life and your being able to call 9-1-1 early enough to allow for a timely response.

Be pro-active in taking claim prevention steps in your home. It is worth theeffort.

MIKE WILLIAMS, a local State Farm Insurance agent, writes this column every Wednesday for L’Observateur.

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