Wildfire Threat Influences Home-Buying Decisions
WARREN, NJ, June 1, 2009 - The vast majority (79%) of 1,000 respondents to a nationwide survey indicated that they would not invest in a distressed
property in a wildfire zone. The survey, conducted over the telephone for the Chubb Group of Insurance Companies, also found
that 32% of respondents now living in a wildfire-risk area would not purchase another home in an area where wildfires have
occurred.
"The survey results indicate a broad awareness of the risk of wildfires throughout the country," said Kevin Fuhriman, catastrophe
manager, Chubb Personal Insurance. "That's why it's more important than ever for homeowners to protect their families, homes
and possessions from fire."
The survey found that many homeowners have taken some of the proper precautions, Fuhriman said. Seventy-three percent of respondents
have cleared their roofs and gutters of leaves and debris, and 70% have removed all dead or flammable plants and trees from
around their homes.
Fuhriman urged homeowners to do more, however. "Our survey also showed that 20% of respondents did not replace the batteries
in their smoke detectors, and 73% did not conduct a family evacuation drill from their home during the past year," he said.
The survey was conducted last month by Opinion Research Corporation, a worldwide research and consulting firm in Princeton,
NJ.
In partnership with Wildfire Defense Systems, Inc., Chubb established its Wildfire Defense Services last year to help protect
the homes of policyholders in 13 states through a network of highly trained, certified wildfire fighters and highly effective
fire-blocking gel. The service, the nation's largest privately-operated wildfire protection network, is available in Arizona,
California, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oregon, South Dakota, Utah, Washington and Wyoming.
The member insurers of the Chubb Group of Insurance Companies form a multi-billion dollar organization providing property
and casualty insurance for personal and commercial customers worldwide through 8,500 independent agents and brokers. Chubb's
global network includes branches and affiliates in North America, Europe, Latin America, Asia and Australia. Chubb is a worldwide
leader in insuring fine homes, automobiles, yachts, antiques and other collectibles, and personal liability. Additional information
on Chubb can be found at www.chubb.com/personal.
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