If you watch the local or national news for even just 5 minutes, you're bombarded with images of disasters or tragic events here in Houston, across the U.S. or overseas. In our turbulent world disasters can strike at any time, from home burglaries, mudslides, apartment fires, plane crashes, car accidents and more. We can't always avoid the dangers that exist in this world, but we can do our part to minimize their impact in our lives, and in the lives of our loved ones.

You might wonder, "What can I do to reduce the impact of a disaster?" The simple answer: make a plan before disaster strikes. There are a number of proactive steps we can take as individuals, families, and business owners to ensure personal safety and asset protection. By assessing risk factors and making plans in advance, it becomes easier to recover financially, physically and emotionally when disaster strikes.

Making an effective plan involves assessing potential damages or injury that could occur to people or property, and developing a strategy for protection. For example, the biggest threats to homeowner safety are fires, theft and flooding. A family can save lives and protect assets by developing fire, flood or theft exit strategies, and also storing valuables and important documents in fireproof, waterproof safes. Installing home security systems can also deter potential burglars, and give families a quick way to request emergency assistance for theft and fires. Also, homeowners can make sure their home and possessions are protected with comprehensive Homeowners Insurance to help them recover if disaster strikes their home.

Another way business owners can minimize damages from disasters or a catastrophic event is by reviewing emergency procedures with employees, such as theft prevention, fire drills and testing emergency exits. Also, having quality business insurance protection is key for protecting the business and also commercial assets. A robbery, fire or major power outage can easily devastate a business, such as a restaurant or auto repair shop. A lengthy closure can result in a loss of revenue and customers that the business cannot recover from, and the impact can be tremendous to owners who have lost inventory, costly equipment and revenue, and for their employees who will be out of a job. Quality business insurance for commercial structures, company assets, employees and commercial vehicles can help speed up the recovery process and ensure the business survives the disaster.

Finally, because of the unpredictable world we live in, it is important to make a plan to ensure that we have the financial security and peace of mind needed to recover from the death of the a loved one. Life insurance can help families make necessary arrangements, settle outstanding debts, and ensure that the long-term needs of survivors will be met. This is especially beneficial to families with young children, where Life Insurance benefits can help offset future costs for medical expenses, college tuitions or living expenses if there is a death in the family.

Although we cannot stop disasters or catastrophic events from happening, we have the power to significantly reduce their impact on our lives and the lives of our loved ones. A simple plan now can lead to a quick recovery later. Aegis can help you make your plan for the future with a wide selection of affordable and quality insurance solutions, all tailored to your unique needs. Whether you need insurance for you, your family, or your business, Aegis can help evaluate your insurance needs and develop a strategic plan that provides great protection for you and your assets. The friendly and knowledgeable agents at Aegis are ready to help you with Homeowners, Auto, Business and Life Insurance, and can offer you substantial savings when you bundle all your policies together with Aegis. Call Aegis today at 713-850-7622 for more information, or go online to request a free quote.