Communities can seek the best homeowner and property rates possible by having a good fire protection class rating. Rating classes, set by the statefire marshal’s office, are based on water availability, equipment, personnel and training. Fire rating classifications are a part of insurance rate settingcalculations.

Individuals can help hold the line on their homeowner’s insurance costs by taking several steps:

Taking crime preventions steps.

Being alert to pro-active safety measures.

Adjusting insurance coverage if appropriate.

Install deadbolt locks and consider a home security system. Insurers oftenoffer discounts for such crime prevention measures.

Install perimeter lighting around the house.

Install an electrical surge protection system or devices as needed.

Install smoke detectors near sleeping areas.

Have electrical wiring checked in older homes.

Do not store flammable liquids like gasoline and paint thinner in the house.

Always be alert in the kitchen. Never leave a stove unattended. Keep ahousehold fire extinguisher in the kitchen and know how it works.

Keep your dog leashed or fenced to reduce potential dog bite liability.

Keep guns and ammunition locked up and the keys in a safe place.

Review your insurance coverage. You might be able to reduce your premiumif you are comfortable with a higher deductible.

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

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