Claims valued at $35M filed over Reno wildfires - msnbc.com

RENO, Nev. (AP) — According to insurance carrier reports, about 1,100 claims valued at $35 million have been filed as a result of two major wildfires around Reno in recent months.

The Nov. 18 Caughlin Ranch Fire burned nearly 1,900 acres and destroyed 26 homes after being started by power lines arcing in high winds.

The Jan. 19 Washoe Drive Fire killed a 93-year-old woman, charred 3,100 acres and destroyed 28 homes after being accidentally started by a man's improper disposal of ashes.

Nevada Division of Insurance spokesman Jake Sunderland told the Reno Gazette-Journal that residents in fire-prone areas should learn about their coverage, and the difference between replacement cost and actual cost values.  Replacement cost insures the market value of items, while actual cash value covers the purchase price for items.

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