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Winter Home Maintenance Tips

“Preparing your home for winter is an important annual ritual for homeowners. For instance, did you know that adding insulation in your attic before winter arrives can help prevent ice dams this winter? And do not forget that tuning up your heating system now can help prevent more costly emergency repairs at the height of a storm, when it can be difficult to find supplies and licensed contractors. The following winter maintenance tips can help you prepare your home to withstand another cold season.

Download the Winter Home Maintenance Checklist >

Your Heating System

Before you give your heating system a workout this winter, take the time for preventive maintenance. It may help extend the life of your system and identify potential problems

Before winter:

  • Have your furnace or boiler checked and serviced by a licensed contractor at least once a year, preferably before the heating season begins.
  • Clean or replace the furnace filter on forced hot air systems.
  • Have your chimney checked and serviced by a licensed contractor at least once a year. Pay particular attention to having creosote buildup removed from chimneys servicing woodstoves and fireplaces.

During winter:

  • Have your fuel tanks filled and keep an eye on levels throughout the winter.
  • Set your heat no lower than 55 degrees as the temperature inside the walls where water piping is located is colder than the living spaces; open doors to unoccupied rooms to keep an even temperature throughout the house.
  • Maintain your wood-burning or pellet stoves according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Your Insulation

Is your insulation prepared to protect you from the cold? As an important line of defense from winter’s gusty winds and freezing temperatures, it is worth taking time to inspect and upgrade insulation and weather stripping before the season starts.

  • Add extra insulation in the attic to help guard against ice dams. If too much heat escapes into the attic, it can warm the ice and snow on the roof. When it refreezes, it can cause an ice dam, which can lead to water damage inside your home or possibly even a roof collapse.
  • Add weather stripping around doors and caulk windows to guard against drafts and heat loss.
  • Remove screens from windows and install storm windows, if appropriate.

Your Utilities

Freezing temperatures can be especially damaging to your home’s water piping. Make sure your pipes are adequately prepared to withstand a cold snap and remember to take extra precautions if you are going to be leaving your home, including shutting off your water.

  • Check for water leaks and fix problems immediately; wrap water piping in UL-Listed heat tape and insulate if it is exposed in unheated areas such as garages, crawl spaces or attics. Use only thermostatically-controlled heat tape if your water piping is plastic, and follow the manufacturer’s installation instructions.
  • Learn how to shut off your water and know where your pipes are located in case they do freeze; you may be able to prevent water damage.

Your Winter Safety Measures

As you prepare for winter, following are some further safety measures that are especially important during the cold season.

  • Trim trees and remove dead branches so they do not damage your home or injure someone if they fall because of ice, snow or wind.
  • Keep gutters clear of leaves, sticks and other debris to help ensure melting snow can drain properly. Make sure downspouts direct water away from the foundation.
  • Repair steps and handrails to make them safer in the ice and snow.
  • Check smoke detectors, fire alarms and carbon monoxide detectors, and replace batteries to ensure they are operating properly.

Your Key Supplies and Equipment

The first storm of the year can come sooner than you think. Stock up early and get key equipment, like snow blowers and generators, in good working condition long before you need them, so you can be prepared to enjoy what the season has to offer.

  • Make sure you have snow shovels and a roof rake on hand. Stock your ice melting compound to melt ice on walkways.
  • Have your snow blower and generator serviced and any necessary repairs made.
  • Keep fuel for snow blowers and generators in approved safety containers and away from heat or flame-producing devices. Do not store fuel in your basement.”

Article written by Travelers Risk Control 

For more great articles check out Travelers

 

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Caring for the Caregiver: The ultimate guide to maintaining your physical and emotional well-being

By Christina Joseph Robinson

Two years into my father’s recovery from bypass surgery complications, my mother surprised me with a one-week vacation to Paris. I’d never been and always dreamed about it, yet I couldn’t help feeling guilty for leaving my ailing dad behind. But my mom knew I needed a break.

For the better part of my dad’s sickness, if he wasn’t confined to a hospital room, he was living with me. In addition to working a full-time job, I arranged doctor visits, maintained medication lists, handled his finances, cooked for him, and constantly fretted over his physical and mental well-being, sometimes to the detriment of my own.

Giving more attention to the health of your loved one than yourself is a common occurrence for caregivers, who make up 16 percent of Americans. Logistically, it makes sense: Caregivers spend an average of 20 hours a week tending to loved ones. “To be the best caretaker for your loved one, you’ve got to give yourself permission to take care of yourself,” explains Andy Lee, Aetna’s chief mindfulness officer, who spent years as a caregiver to his wife.

Here are some steps you can take to preserve your well-being so you can be present for the ones who need you most.

Plan ahead and get organized

Before you begin your care giving duties, it helps to get organized. Decide what tasks you can take on yourself or divide among willing family members. And identify what extra resources you’ll need, especially if you’re handling everything alone. Having a concrete plan in place can give you a sense of calm, especially when new issues arise.

Check with your community and home health agencies plan to see what resources are available. Aetna Medicare Advantage members and their caregivers can tap into the Resources For Living® program, which provides access to consultants who help find services and resources in the community to help meet everyday needs. The call is free, but members are responsible for any expenses associated with the services they use.

Ask for help

Caregiving can be physically and emotionally exhausting, and you may feel the desire to take on everything yourself. Trying to be a superhero could lead to burnout, and that’s not good for anyone. Asking for help is especially important if your loved one has a chronic condition, like cancer.

Experts recommend accepting offers of help, and giving those eager to lend a hand some ideas about how to help. You may find that removing just one item off your list can make all the difference when you’re feeling overwhelmed. “It’s helpful to spread the wealth,” says Shara Sosa, a Virginia-based oncology therapist and cancer survivor. “Remember that [caring for a loved one] is a marathon, not a sprint.”

Establish your own emotional support system

It’s normal to experience a range of emotions as a caregiver, including sadness, guilt, frustration and anger. Find a support group or someone you trust who can relate. Not only can you compare tips and resources, you also have someone else to lean on for emotional support. If you’re reluctant to share your thoughts, find other ways to express yourself, such as journaling or painting.

However, there may be times when you’ll need to seek professional help. Stress, anxiety, depression and other mental health conditions are common among caregivers. The Family Caregiving Alliance reports that 40 to 70 percent of caregivers have clinically significant symptoms of depression.

If you’re experiencing any signs of caregiver distress, such as anger, social withdrawal or depression, talk with someone you trust or a mental health professional. Aetna Medicare members, for instance, have access to Resources for Living, which can help them find local support groups.

Find time to socialize and relax

Caring for someone can feel isolating at times. Remember, it’s OK to give yourself permission to do the things that you enjoy. You can also find activities to do with your care recipient that don’t revolve around caregiving. Those small moments can raise your spirits and bring the two of you closer together.

Though it may be hard, try to relax. Reducing stress and anxiety gives you more energy and mental capacity to handle the tasks of caregiving. Get a massage or try some deep breathing, visualization or meditation to help clear your mind. You can find meditation tools in the Aetna App Room.

Need to stay close to home? Walk around the block or read a book for pleasure. Even small actions like chewing gum or drinking tea have been shown to reduce stress and improve focus.

Maintain your physical well-being

The physical demands of caring for another adult can also take their toll. About 1 in 10 caregivers say their physical health has declined since taking on the role. Caregivers have a higher risk of developing physical ailments, from acid reflux and headaches to more serious, chronic conditions like heart disease, diabetes and arthritis.

Exercising can help. Start small by walking with a friend or signing up for a class at your local gym. If you can’t leave the house, do some gentle stretches or jog up and down the stairs (you’re probably doing it anyway, so just add a few more trips).

Not only will being active improve your health, it can also boost your mood. Studies show people who exercise at least two to three times a week experience significantly less depression, anger and stress than those who work out less frequently or not at all.

Eat healthy food

It’s easy to forget to eat healthy when you’re constantly on duty. But without proper nutrition, you’ll feel sluggish or hyperactive. Eating a diet of nutritious food at regular intervals leads to a healthy level of energy with fewer mood fluctuations, an overall happier outlook and an improved ability to focus, says Dr. Gabriela Cora, a board-certified psychiatrist, plant-based nutrition certified physician, and medical director for Aetna Behavioral Health. In fact, studies show that a healthy diet can alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety.

If you’re pressed for time, assemble individual servings of nutritious food, such as almonds or cheese and crackers. Prepare several days of meals at once, and leave fresh fruit on the table to make it easier to grab and go.

Get plenty of rest

You can’t care for someone else effectively if you’re tired. Find a bedtime routine that works for you so you can recharge for the next day. Experts recommend adults get at least seven hours of sleep a night. Here are a few steps you can take to rest well: Avoid heavy meals before bedtime. Run a warm bath for yourself or read a book. And dim the lights and limit electronic devices late at night because artificial lights can confuse your internal clock.

Self-care is an essential part of ensuring you’ll be there for those who need you most. When I returned from Paris, I was well-rested, upbeat and ready to resume my duties as a caregiver. My dad felt better, too. He knew things were difficult for both of us, and seeing me smile made him happy.

For more information on how caregivers can care for themselves, visit Aetna’s resource for caregivers

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What to Know About Buying a Vacant Home

Vacant Home in disrepair and over-grown grass with a for sale sign

“Why buy a vacant home? One of the biggest perks is being able to make the home whatever you want it to be. You can make it your new home, create a vacation home, rent it out, or fix it up and sell it to someone else. In some cases the seller may be willing to sell a vacant home cheaper than an occupied home. This is good news for you because you can save some money, but it could also mean something might be wrong with the house. It may need a little love, attention and renovating. Before you purchase a vacant home, here are a few things to do and watch out for:

Professional Inspection

Ask for an inspection from a professional and take notes on what they discover. You’ll want to know what’s broken, what needs to be fixed and what could possibly go wrong. (Note: Be prepared to pay for the home’s electricity to be on for the duration of the inspection).

Critters

Since vacant homes can sit for quite some time, critters may come in and make themselves at home. Although they are usually small animals such as mice or bats, they can cause damage to a vacant house. Those unwanted critters can eat at the floors, carpets, walls and wiring. Be aware that you may need to hire a pest control service, and this could be costly based on the number of animals and the amount of damage.

Housing inspector inspecting the plumbing under the kitchen sink

Plumbing

There may be plumbing issues that have caused dried and cracked seals, slow faucets, leaks and other issues. If the heat hasn’t been on and the temperatures dropped, the pipes could be at risk to freeze or burst (if they haven’t already).

Appliances

The previous owner may not have unplugged their indoor appliances, such as refrigerators and freezers, or let them dry out. There may be mold inside from the moisture being trapped. Having appliances plugged in with no one there could result in a fire (if the electric was on). Appliances in the house may become unusable due to long periods of sitting with no use, which means you will need new ones.

Molds

Remember, molds can grow on more than just appliances! Check for mold in the walls, floors, pipes…everywhere! Some molds may cause health issues, so if mold is found during your inspection, you may want to rethink purchasing the home. Talk with your inspector about the extremity and presence of mold, and evaluate the safety risks.

Unanticipated Repairs

There are other potential sources of damage. For example, break-ins are more likely when a home appears empty, and windows, doors and other items could be damaged by the intruder. Storms are another danger. Debris could hit the home and cause damage that may have gone undetected. Always thoroughly inspect the home before buying!

There are a lot of things to do and watch out for before purchasing a vacant home, but the possibilities of what the home could be are endless. If you are looking to buy a vacant home but haven’t found one yet, there are a few ways to move forward. Look online, talk to neighbors, get a realtor or simply drive around. There are more vacant homes than you think…happy hunting!”

This article was brought to you by Foremost insurance and written by Niki King.

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HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT LIFE JACKET

[Read more…]

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Beyond sunscreen: The ultimate guide to summer health

By Maureen Shelly

“Few things bring out the kid in all of us like summertime. Even if it’s been decades since you left school for the working world, the season’s atmosphere of joyful freedom remains the same. Just remember that warm weather also brings out the bugs, ragweed and other health concerns. To maximize your fun in the sun, it’s smart to follow a few rules of thumb.

Consider sun-protection clothing

Experts say clothing with built-in sunscreen is worth the investment. Regular summer fabrics may offer only SPF 15 or less. Sun-protection fabric labeled UPF 40 (UPF stands for ultraviolet protection factor) is comparable to wearing SPF 30 lotion ― without the mess.  (Just make sure to apply sunscreen to any exposed skin.) The UPF treatment lasts through about 40 washes, or two seasons of frequent use. The downside: The clothing can be pricey. But if you can afford one long-sleeve rash guard, you’ll be happy to have it. Check sportswear shops or search online for “sun protective clothing.”

Drink up to stay hydrated

Think the fuss about drinking water is silly? The truth is that it’s really easy to get dehydrated in hot weather. For kids, older adults and people with health conditions, it can be a life or death matter. Even if you’re young and healthy, losing fluids can cause headaches, nausea and extreme fatigue. So keep a large bottle of water with you whenever you’re outside.

Find out how much water you need to drink in our age-by-age guide.

Wear your sunglasses

You don’t have to stare at an eclipse for your eyes to suffer sun damage. Even on a cloudy day, sunlight can harm tissues in the eye and contribute to cataracts and macular degeneration (a leading cause of blindness). So sunglasses are more than a fashion statement; they truly protect your vision. Look for shades labeled “100% UV protection” or “UV 400.” If there’s no sticker, don’t buy them ― you can’t tell by the darkness or color of the lens what the protection level is. Fortunately, cheap glasses offer the same protection as expensive styles. Not sure if yours are the real deal? Bring them to an optician, who should be able to test the lens for you at no cost.

Now you see it: Learn about healthy habits to help protect your eyesight.

Be a savvy traveler

Call your health insurance company to make sure you’re covered at your destination (if not, ask whether they offer travel insurance). If you’re traveling overseas, ask your doctor about recommended immunizations. Pack extras of any prescriptions you need, and keep a stash of over-the-counter remedies as well, such as ibuprofen, antihistamines, antacids and cortisone cream. Seniors should be especially mindful: Plan ahead, and don’t ignore symptoms on the road.

Discover more great advice for senior travelers.

Soothe rashes and bites

Itchy rashes and bug bites can put a damper on summer fun. Fortunately, a few home remedies can soothe many skin problems. First, avoid scratching (trim those fingernails) and stay away from standard toiletry products ― like soap, lotion and perfume ― which may make rashes worse. Hydrocortisone cream can reduce itchiness and inflammation. Oral antihistamines and pain relievers can also help. Calamine lotion will soothe poison ivy, but may irritate bug bites. For severe skin problems, it’s best to call your doctor. Prescription medicines can help.

Aetna members have access to the Teladoc® Dermatology service, which allows you to upload photos of skin conditions and ask questions; a dermatologist will respond within two days.

Manage your allergies

While summertime brings relief from tree pollen allergies, other triggers are just ramping up. Ragweed, mold and dust mites all flourish in warm temperatures. Plus, sunlight makes smog worse ― and your allergy symptoms. So keep up your allergy treatment through the summer months. Shower before bed to wash off pollen. And run your air conditioner to reduce allergens in your home.

Learn other great allergy management tips.

Let nature nurture you

Don’t let these summer watch-outs discourage you from enjoying the great outdoors. Studies show that being out in nature heals mind and body. Gardening in particular helps people of all ages reduce stress, enhance thinking, build strength and enjoy healthy homegrown food. Digging in the dirt is so good for you that many hospitals, senior centers and rehab facilities incorporate garden therapy into programs for patients recovering from cancer, heart attack, brain injury, post-traumatic stress and chronic pain.

Check with your local botanical garden for workshops in “therapeutic horticulture.” For aspiring gardeners without yards to plant, community gardens are a great resource.

See how gardening helps the students in an alternative school in Florida.

Adjust your bedtime routine

Warm temperatures and more hours of sunlight can make it tougher to fall asleep at night. But simple changes can improve the quality of your sleep. Try avoiding alcohol, heavy meals and electronic devices for several hours before bedtime. They’ve been shown to confuse your internal clock. An evening workout helps some people fall asleep faster and sleep more deeply. And if you have an air conditioner, keep the thermostat between 60 and 67 degrees ― the best temperature for shut-eye.

Check out more tips to help you fall asleep.]

Don’t forget the sunscreen

Last but not least: No matter how dark your complexion, everyone needs to protect their skin with broad-spectrum, SPF 30+ sunscreen every day. You’ll help prevent skin cancer, sunburn and most visible signs of aging. Be especially careful on cloudy days (when 80 percent of harmful rays still get through) and near snow, sand and water, which magnify sunshine. If you’re worried about vitamin D, simply take a supplement.

In the event that you do get burned, know how to treat a sunburn.

Summer is a magical time. With a little forethought, you can avoid common downers and keep the good times rolling. Stay cool!”

For more tips and tricks on ways to improve your health visit Aetna’s website today.

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Swimming Pool Safety Tips

While it’s finally starting to feel like summer here in the Midwest, make sure you are doing what you can to be safe while trying to stay cool! Check out Travelers’ article below by Travelers Risk Control to read all about swimming pool safety tips!

With warmer weather comes an array of outdoor activities for the whole family, including cooling off in a pool if you are lucky enough to have one. But with a pool also comes the responsibility of safety must-haves and best practices that any parent or home owner should be concerned with. With over 200 young children¹ drowning in backyard pools each year, these tips are critical to ensuring a fun environment for anyone who owns a pool to keep both their friends and family safe and secure.

Swimming Pool Safety Tips

  • It is important to maintain secure fencing and a locked entrance around the pool and deck area to prevent access when adequate supervision is not available. Install self-closing and self-latching gates in the proper locations.
  • Make sure no one swims alone. Never leave a child unattended in the water or pool area, and see that less experienced swimmers are always accompanied by a swimmer who has water life-saving skills.
  • Equip your door, gate or pool with an audible alarm to alert you if someone enters the pool area or falls into the pool while it is unattended.
  • Diving should be prohibited unless a specific area of the pool is designated for safe diving. Water depth and diving-restricted areas should be clearly marked.
  • Make sure there is adequate life-saving equipment in the pool area, including life preservers and a rope with life-saving rings, a reaching pole or rescue hook.

Pool Maintenance Tips

  • Keep chemicals safely stored away from the pool area. Follow all storage and usage instructions recommended by the pool chemical manufacturer.
  • Be sure electrical devices, including outdoor entertainment systems, are away from pools or wet surfaces. When using electrical devices outdoors be sure to plug them into a GFCI (ground-fault circuit interrupter). Keep the pool area clear of glass bottles, toys or other potential accident hazards.
  • Inspect the liner regularly as rips and tears can appear undetected at the top of the lining. Check for signs of wear and tear in areas where pipes or other items may have penetrated the liner (e.g. skimmers, hoses, etc.).
  • For above ground pools check metal supports for rust or deterioration. These may indicate areas where the pool could rupture or a person could be injured.
  • Check the deck for safety hazards (e.g. protruding nails, loose boards, etc.).
  • Check the pool stair handrails and deck railing to ensure structural integrity from someone leaning or grabbing it.
  • Ensure your pool has compliant anti-entrapment drain covers and inspect them regularly to confirm they are not broken or missing. Visit the Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act (P&SS Act) for additional information. This act applies for all outdoor and indoor structures intended for swimming or recreational bathing, including in-ground and above-ground pools, hot tubs, spas, whirlpools and non-portable wading pools.
¹ American Red Cross – http://www.redcross.org/prepare/disaster/water-safety/home-pool-safety
Additional source:
Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act – U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) http://www.poolsafely.gov/

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7 TIPS FOR HIRING A QUALIFIED ROOFING CONTRACTOR

“If you’ve properly maintained and repaired your business’s roof, it should have a long life. However, eventually you will need to repair or replace it. When you do so, you’ll want to ensure you hire a qualified roofing contractor to do the job.

EMC Engineering Services Supervisor Kody Daniel says he has heard horror stories about roofing scams and shoddy workmanship, especially during times of crisis, such as after a hurricane or other severe storm when many homes and businesses suffer extensive damage. At these times, contractors often travel from other areas, and while many are reputable some scammers show up during the chaotic time.

Whether your roof job is an emergency post-storm necessity, or you have planned the project for months, it’s wise to take precautions. Roofing projects are a substantial investment in protecting your building, so you want the job done right the first time.

Kody recommends doing plenty of homework before hiring a contractor:

  • Look at local companies first to vet them through your local Better Business Bureau. You may also want to check with your state attorney general’s office of consumer protection to see if there are any complaints against the company.
  • Ask other business owners. While you’ll want to ask for and call the references the roofing company provides, you can also check directly with other business owners or managers who you trust for contractor recommendations. For example, Kody says he has heard about school superintendents sharing information from district to district about contractors so they get a good feel for the pros and cons of any service under consideration.
  • Prepare a list of questions to ask each potential roofing contractor. Some questions to ask include:
    • If they will provide current proof of insurance (liability and workers’ compensation), bonding and safety records, such as OSHA logs and their company’s experience modification rating.
    • If the company plans to hire subcontractors for some or all of the work. If this is the case, you’ll need the same insurance details for each of the subs.
    • The length of time the company has been in business and whether it has changed owners recently.
    • What continuing education and professional certifications individual contractors have. Check to see if they are involved in local, state or national associations, such as RCI, Inc. or the National Roofing Contractors Association, state or national roofing contractor boards, associations that serve their customers or local chambers of commerce.
    • Ask potential contractors which roofing materials they are certified to install. If you are planning to install a specific product on your roof, also check with the manufacturer to find out who in your area is certified and trained to install that product. Be sure your selected contractor proves their company has plenty of knowledge and experience with the type of roof you will be replacing. For example, if you have a flat roof, select a contractor who understands the different types of membranes and will incorporate appropriate sloping to roof drains.

Next Steps

Once you gather details from and about the contractors, you can begin to get into the specifics of bids and contracts with the best candidates. The next steps include:

  • Request bids or RFPs from several companies. Be sure that the bids put every detail in writing so you can compare prices and ensure the company will follow all your requests. Find a detailed list of items to include in your bid from the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety. As part of the bid or as a separate detail, ask to see copies of warranties, both from the manufacturer of the materials and on the contractor’s workmanship.
  • Compare the bids, understanding that the low bid is not necessarily the best one. Discuss the ability of each of the contractors to finish the project properly and to meet the commitments in the bid.
  • Sign a contract including all the bid items and be sure the contractor signs too.
  • Be vigilant during the roofing process to ensure that the contractor and subs are fulfilling the requirements laid out in the bid and the contract. Question any part of the process that doesn’t seem correct and examine all work carefully before issuing final payment.”

 

This article was written by EMC

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Car Theft Prevention Tips

Park Safely

The best bet is to keep your vehicle in a locked garage. But for some people, this may not be an option. If you have to keep your vehicle parked outside, start by parking it in your driveway. If your vehicle is front wheel drive, park front end first, and if your vehicle is rear-wheel drive, back into your driveway. This makes it harder to thieves to tow your vehicle. If you have to park in the street, park in a well-lit, highly trafficked area, but make sure you’re following the posted rules. Turning your wheels towards the curb, using your emergency brake, and parking in between other vehicles can also make it harder for your vehicle to be towed away.

When leaving your vehicle, always roll up all your windows and lock the doors, even if you are just leaving it for a few minutes. Also, try to avoid leaving your vehicle unattended for an extended period of time, but if you have to, make sure you park in an attended, well-lit lot.

Theft Deterrents

While locking your vehicle or leaving it in a well-lit area can certainly help prevent auto theft, you may want increase your peace of mind by purchasing an anti-theft device. Many different types are available, and it’s easy to find one that fits your budget and needs. Some of the more common antitheft devices include:

  • Electronic security systems
  • Steering wheel and column locks
  • Ignition kill switches
  • Fuel kill switches
  • Immobilizers
  • Locks for the floor board, gear shift, tires/wheels or hood
  • Vehicle tracking systems

Whatever type of antitheft device you choose, make sure that it is installed properly. Otherwise, you may risk damaging the device or your vehicle. Hire an alarm installation professional to do the work for you. Also, consider etching the vehicle information number (VIN) into different parts on the vehicle, as this makes it easier to trace stolen automobiles/parts.

Common Sense

To protect your automobile from theft, always use common sense. Don’t leave the car running unattended with the keys in the ignition. Don’t hide a spare set of ignition keys in the glove box, or within close proximity to the vehicle. Don’t leave personal identification documents like titles or credit cards in your vehicle. Don’t keep valuables in plain sight in your vehicle. And if you park using a valet, or leave your keys with an attendant, make sure you only leave the key to the vehicle.

If your Vehicle is Stolen

Unfortunately vehicles are stolen all the time in this country. If you become the victim of auto theft contact the police first. Make sure you know as much of the following information as possible:

  • Year, make, model, and color of your vehicle
  • License plate number
  • VIN
  • Approximate time of the theft
  • Location where the vehicle was parked
  • Names of eye witnesses (if there are any)

Next, inform your insurance company that your vehicle was stolen. Have your policy number on hand when you call.

Insure Your Investment

In addition to being confident that you are doing what you can to protect your vehicle; it’s important that you have the right insurance. Not all automobiles are the same and neither are all automobile policies. You need an insurance policy that offers the coverages that are important to you when you’re behind the wheel.

Here’s what a new DISTINCTCHOICE Auto policy can offer you:

  • Security and Peace of Mind. Foremost has experience with the kind of insurance you want. Foremost has been in business since 1952 and has a long, solid history of providing superior value to our customers.
  • Coverage Essentials. A Foremost policy provides the coverage you want for your vehicle and the drivers, including medical payments and permissive user.
  • Additional Coverages. A Foremost policy recognizes that every driver is different and offers additional coverages, like loan or lease coverage and rental reimbursement, so you can tailor your policy to fit your lifestyle.
  • Choice of Payment Plans and Deductibles. A Foremost policy offers flexibility, like being able to choose from different deductible levels and payment plans. This allows you to choose when you want to pay and helps make your premium payments affordable.”

This article was written by Foremost Insurance 

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WHAT TO DO AFTER A FLOOD

As the Midwest tackles the inevitable grey cloud that has followed the aftermath of melting snow and rainfall, it seems most appropriate to bring you a blog post dedicated on what to do during/after a flood.

“Anyone who’s been through a flood knows that recovering after this kind of disaster isn’t easy. You’re forced to accept that irreplaceable family treasures and memories may be gone forever, your furniture is destroyed, potentially along with your home. It’s a devastating and emotional moment and a lot to take in all at once. But you know the only thing you can do is move forward, and begin the steps needed to restore your home.

As soon as the floodwaters recede, you can return to your home as long as officials give the OK to do so. Before entering your home, however, make sure it is safe!

Tips for staying safe upon return:

    • Check for structural damage and use extreme caution. One way to do this is to check if the walls are vertical and straight.
    • Turn off the electricity in your home at the main breaker or fuse box. Make sure you stand in a dry spot to do this! If you can’t stand in a dry spot, call an electrician who will take care of the risk.

Two people in rain boots standing on a wet floor

  • Turn off the gas. If you smell something unusual, leave immediately and call your gas company from another location.
  • Check your sewage system. Repair damaged septic tanks, cesspools, pits and leaching systems as soon as possible. These serious health hazards.
  • Take precaution when inspecting your home. Your home may have sagging ceilings and areas that are still flooded. Also beware of critters like snakes, spiders and rodents that may have taken refuge in your home!

Bring waterproof boots, a first aid kit, cleaning supplies and a battery-powered flashlight with you before entering the house! You never know what you’ll run into.

Tips for claim reporting:
Another important step to take when recovering from a flood is reporting your loss immediately to your insurance agent or carrier. While flood coverage is typically not provided under most homeowners and renters policies, flood insurance may be available to you through the federally regulated program known as the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). If you need assistance to locate your flood insurance carrier, you can call 1-800-621-FEMA (3362). A claims adjuster should contact you within a day or two after report of the claim, depending on the severity of the flood event.

When reporting a claim, you should have the following information available:
– Your name and address
– Policy number
– Date the loss happened
– Description of events that led to loss
– Active phone number
– Confirm what’s covered under your NFIP policy (some policyholders may only have building or personal property items coverage, not both)

Tips for inspections:
The next step, according to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), is to prepare for your inspection. After deeming the structure safe for entry, take as many photos or videos of the flood-damaged property on the outside and inside. Take pictures of high-cost items as well like washers and dryers, hot water heaters, televisions and kitchen appliances. It’s also a good idea to separate the damaged from undamaged items prior to the inspection.

When the adjuster arrives, they will inspect your property including taking measurements and photos and give you an overview of the NFIP flood claims process. Remember that some flood insurance claims are more complex than others. Some may be opened and closed quickly, while others may take weeks or even months to resolve.

If your vehicle was also damaged in a flood event, it’s best to call your auto insurance provider to see if you’re covered for the loss.

If you are a Foremost customer and need to file a claim on your home, click here for online help or call 1-800-527-3907. To file an auto claim, call 1-800-274-7865.”

 

This article was brought to you by our friends at Foremost Insurance.

 

By

Freezing Pipes

As the freezing temperatures come to a close in the Midwest this week, ask yourself if you’re prepared for the next time the cold strikes. Taking the steps to prevent your pipes from freezing is a lot easier than managing the crisis of frozen ones.

“Frozen pipes can present an invisible threat – one that you might not recognize until the weather starts to warm. By then, the water damage can be significant and costly. Fortunately, keeping your home warmer, at a consistent temperature, and better insulated can help protect your pipes from freezing this winter.

Which Pipes Are Most at Risk?

Pipes that are most exposed to the elements, including those outdoors and along the exterior walls of your home, may need extra protection during winter months. These include the following:

  • Outdoor hose hookups and faucets.
  • Swimming pool supply lines.
  • Lawn sprinkler lines.
  • Water pipes in unheated, interior locations such as basements, crawl spaces, attics, garages and kitchen and bathroom cabinets.
  • Pipes running against exterior walls with little or no insulation.

How to Help Prevent Frozen Pipes

Before winter:

  • Check your home for areas where water pipes are located in unheated or poorly insulated areas. Be sure to check your basement, attic, crawl space, garage and within cabinets containing plumbing. Hot and cold water pipes should both be insulated.
  • Products such as pipe sleeves or UL-listed heat tape or heat cable can help insulate or heat exposed water pipes.

During winter:

  • Close inside valves supplying water to outdoor faucets and hookups.
  • Open outdoor faucets to allow residual water to drain; be sure to keep them open during the cold weather months, while the water supply is turned off.
  • Keep garage doors closed to help protect water pipes located in the garage.
  • Open the doors on cabinets where plumbing is located. This can help allow warmer air to circulate around the pipes.
  • For pipes that are at risk of freezing (both hot and cold water pipes), let water drip from faucets.
  • Keep the heat in your home set at a minimum of 55 degrees.

Why is a Frozen Pipe a Concern?

When water begins to freeze, it expands. This can cause both plastic and metal pipes to burst, possibly leading to significant water damage to your home.

  • Since water expands when it freezes, it puts unwanted pressure on pipes.
  • As water freezes, the force exerted from the expansion can cause a pipe to burst, regardless of the strength of the material.
  • You may not know you have a burst pipe as the water has turned to ice. Once the temperature starts to warm and thawing begins, leaking and flooding can occur.

What Do You Do if You Have a Frozen Pipe?

  • If you have a leak, turn the water off immediately to prevent water damage and call a licensed plumber to make repairs. If your home is heated by an older steam heating system, consult with your heating professional to determine if it is safe to continue to run the heating system with the water supply turned off for your particular heating system.”

Article written by Travelers

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