If you’re a homeowner in North Carolina, you’ll want to know Insurance Commissioner Mike Causey’s wildfire safety tips.

Western North Carolina faces a critical wildfire threat as over 100 fires consume more than 8,600 acres across the state. With 34 counties and Cherokee tribal lands under an emergency declaration, state officials are mobilizing to help residents protect their properties and prepare for potential evacuations.

State emergency response to widespread wildfires

The North Carolina Forest Service reports approximately 105 active wildfires burning throughout the western region. In response, state authorities have declared an emergency across a wide swath of counties, stretching from Cherokee County in the west to Mecklenburg and Union counties in the central part of the state.

Property protection guidance from the NC Insurance Commissioner

North Carolina Insurance Commissioner Mike Causey emphasized the unpredictable nature of wildfires, stating, “A wildfire’s path and possible destruction are difficult to predict. But there are precautions you can take before the wildfire has the opportunity to impact your property and actions you can take if it does.”

For residents facing possible evacuation, Commissioner Causey recommends taking essential items, including:

• Personal identification documents
• Critical medications, including insulin and blood pressure drugs
• Essential medical devices and aids
• Financial documents and payment methods

Steps to take if your property is damaged

The Insurance Commissioner’s office has outlined several crucial steps for affected homeowners:

• Verify property safety before entering
• Protect against further damage or theft
• Contact insurance representatives immediately
• Document damage through photos and video
• Maintain damaged items for insurance inspection
• Avoid unauthorized repair work or cleaning
• Be vigilant against potential scams and fraud

“I encourage everyone to make a home inventory to document what you own,” Commissioner Causey advised, emphasizing the importance of documentation for insurance claims.

Additional disaster recovery resources are available on the North Carolina Department of Insurance website.