September is National Preparedness Month

A disaster won’t wait! Severe weather or other unforeseen circumstances can result in a loss of property when you least expect it. September is National Preparedness Month and in addition to creating an emergency plan for your family and building an emergency kit, now is a good time to review your home inventory checklist!

What’s a home inventory checklist and why do I need one?

A home inventory checklist is a thorough list and proof of ownership of many of the items in your home. In the event of a homeowners claim, this list can make the claims process faster and more efficient. If you already have a home inventory checklist, it’s a good idea to update the document from time to time to ensure that it is as up to date as possible.

If you don’t already have a checklist, use this guide from Arbella Mutual for tips and a template to create your own home inventory checklist.

Make sure to store your checklist somewhere safe and not in your home, so you have access to it in the event of an emergency. If you have questions or need further advice on compiling your checklist, contact our office today.

Keeping your home cool in the heat

Here we are, another heat wave!

Rising and sustained temperatures along with stifling humidity can bring on the summertime struggles. During peak times of sweating in the heat, you want your house to be a cool, comfortable retreat, not a sweltering prison.

On days like these, a good air conditioner can save the day. So here are several tips to make sure your air conditioning unit is working efficiently and effectively:

• Be sure your air conditioner is properly sized for your home.

• Avoid air conditioning unused rooms.

• Ensure that your air ducts are properly sealed and insulated.

• Clean your air conditioner's air filter at least once a month to increase the air flow.

A well-functioning air conditioner is great for surviving the summer heat. But constantly keeping one running uses a lot of energy and raises monthly electric bills. To cut down on energy usage, it's a good idea to have a few alternatives for beating the heat. Here are a few ideas for staying cool in your home during the summer without air conditioning:

1. Cook your meals outside on a grill instead of preparing food with an indoor stove or oven.

2. Open the windows and let the cooler nighttime air in before you go to bed.

3. Turn on bathroom fans after you take a shower and turn on the exhaust fan in your kitchen after you cook. This will blow away the hot air that is created by both activities.

4. Unplug your electronics when they are not in use. Even if they are turned off, your gadgets will produce heat when they are plugged in.

5. Refrain from using appliances like dishwashers until cooler parts of the day.

6. Be creative and experiment with fans. Try facing box fans out the windows so they push away hot air, or make a DIY air conditioner by placing a pan or bowl of ice in front of a fan.

7. Turn off the lights as often as you can. Light bulbs give off heat, so try to use them minimally and take advantage of summer's longer daylight hours.

Stay cool and try and beat the heat!

How to keep pets safe in the heat

It’s the time of year where we can expect summer heat waves. And while summer is the perfect time for you and your pet to be more active, having a fur coat can pose some risks if your pet is in the sun for too long. Since they don't sweat like humans, they can overheat a lot faster than we can. But, there are plenty of precautions you can take to ensure they'll be safe and content in the summer heat. Here are five helpful tips to keep in mind while playing outside with your pet:

1. Have plenty of water on hand.

   Your pet will be thirstier than normal during the summer, and can get dehydrated very quickly. Always provide plenty of fresh, cold water as needed. If you're going on a long walk, have a few water bottles on hand for water breaks, and keep them in the shade as much as possible.

2. Never leave your pet in a car unattended.

   This is extremely important! Leaving animals in a parked vehicle is incredibly dangerous. Even if the windows are down, they're still at risk of fatal heat stroke.

3. Keep their paws protected.

   Walking on hot cement or asphalt for long periods of time can cause your pet to overheat at a lot quicker, and can burn their sensitive paws. Always feel the pavement before taking a walk to see how hot it is, and walk them in the early morning or evening when it's not the hottest time of the day.

4. Never use fireworks around your pets.

   Celebrating with fireworks during the summer is fun and exciting for most humans, but it can be traumatizing for your dog or cat. Loud noises can scare and disorient them, and lit fireworks could cause accidental severe burns. Always keep them away from the noise in a safe, sheltered area.

5. Know the symptoms of overheating.

   Dogs and cats are at high risk of overheating during the summer. If you notice any heavy panting, thick drool or vomiting, move them to a cool place and give them water immediately. You may get a damp towel and wrap it around them, but experts advise to never put them in cold water because it can cause shock. If symptoms don't improve, take them to your local vet right away.

If you practice these safety tips, you should feel confident to enjoy the summer with your furry friends. Have fun and be safe!

Avoid these common motorcycle crashes

There is a risk every time you're out on the road. Protect yourself from these common motorcycle crashes by being a proactive driver.

Left Hand Turns Collisions

In these cases, the opposite driver makes a left hand turn at an intersection in front of an oncoming motorcyclist. The driver may not see the biker, or they misjudge the speed and distance at which the biker is coming toward them.

Tips:

• Slow down at intersections.

• Anticipate the direction and speed of oncoming drivers.

• Watch for turn signals. Be ready to slow down or maneuver if a car pulls in front of you.

Head on Collisions

A head on collision is one of the most dangerous situations for a biker. Keep an eye on oncoming traffic, especially as it gets dark.

Tips:

• The National Safety Council stands by the four R's:

  1. Read the road

  2. Drive to the right

  3. Reduce your speed

  4. Ride off the road

• If an oncoming driver enters your lane, direct yourself toward the path of least resistance.

Lane Changing Collisions

The small structure of a motorcycle puts it at a higher risk of not being seen, especially on a highway dominated by semi-trucks. Proactive driving will reduce the risk of being involved in a lane changing collision. If you can't see the mirror or face of the driver, you are in their blind spot.

Tips:

• Never ride in a blind spot.

• Speed up or slow down to create space between yourself and other drivers.

• Anticipate lane changes. Turn signals, mirror checks and turning wheels are signs that a driver is planning to switch lanes.

Rear End Collisions

There are situations when a biker is caught off guard and collides with a vehicle in front of them. Stay vigilant on the road. Traffic conditions can change at any time.

Tips:

• Pay attention to traffic in front of you.

• Watch for brake lights.

• Keep a large distance between you and other vehicles to give yourself time to brake.

Corner Accidents

Be cautious when coming up on a corner. Debris on the road can cause your front tire to slip and lay down your bike. Turns can often be misleading, appearing wider than they really are. Be aware of your skill level and never take on a ride that you don't feel comfortable with.

Tips:

• Assess road conditions and adjust your speed accordingly.

• Be cautious after large storms. Leaves or branches may have fallen, creating hazards around the corner.

• Take turns wide and slow.

• Trust your bike and lean into your turns.

• Stay calm and keep your eyes directed in front of you.

Though some accidents can't be prevented, it is important to do everything you can to keep yourself out of harm's way while you're on the road. Always be aware of your surroundings, and remember these tips when you ride!

Grill Safety Tips

As we approach the holiday weekend, with many of us remaining at home as opposed to traveling this year, we want to take the time to remind you that if you’re cooking out this Fourth of July, it's important to be extremely cautious! According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), July is the peak month for grill fires. To avoid fires or unwanted burns, review the tips below to have a happy and safe holiday.

• If you are using a propane grill, make sure the lid is open before lighting it. If you're using a charcoal grill, remember to use the correct starter fluid.

• Place the grill at least 10 feet away from your home, deck railings and overhanging branches.

• If you are using a charcoal grill and the fire is low, revive it with some kindling and more charcoal. Avoid using liquid fuel as this can cause a flash fire.

• Keep children and pets away from the grill area. If that is unavoidable, make sure they are at least 3 feet from the grill.

• Never leave your grill unattended.

• Keep your grill away from windy areas.

• If you smell gas while grilling, step away from grill immediately and call your fire department.

• When you're done grilling, scrape off any grease or fat buildup that's left over and in the trays below the grill. If you're using a charcoal grill, make sure the coals are completely cool before disposing in a metal container.

Once you clean off your grill, it will be good as new and ready for your next cookout. From all of us at Stephen Benjamin Insurance Agency: Have fun, be safe, and have a Happy Fourth!