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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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Leasing a Car: Pros & Cons

“When you ask, “Should I lease a car?” you likely hear one of two words: “Do” or “Don’t.’

That makes it difficult to decipher the pros and cons of leasing a vehicle. The answer to the question, like many financial decisions, depends on a host of individual details including price, terms, driving record, insurance history and more.

Misinformation and even some long-held biases on the pros and cons of leasing add to the confusion. But leasing a car makes sense for many people.

Are you among them?

The best way to judge is to understand the pros and cons of leasing a car, how leasing a car works and what insider tips for leasing a car might help you get the best deal.

Here are some of the particulars you might consider:

What Is a Car Lease?

You’ll often hear car leasing likened to apartment leasing. There are plentiful similarities. When you lease a car or an apartment, you lease the property for a specific amount of time. You and the property owner have a mutual understanding that the assets will be returned in good condition.

Yet there are significant differences between leasing a car and leasing property or even other equipment. Many car lease agreements last two to three years and often allow you to purchase the car at the end of the term. Car lease agreements limit the number of miles the vehicle can be driven annually, generally between 12,000 to 15,000 miles. Those that exceed the agreed upon mileage are often responsible for paying 10 to 25 cents per mile. You may be able to increase the number of miles you can drive without a per-mile penalty, but the cost can be steep.1

How to Lease a Car

On the surface, it’s easy to understand how leasing a car works.

Review car dealership websites. Then call or visit the dealership. That’s how you’ll find lease specials and selections.

One major difference between shopping for a traditional car loan and a lease is what you’d focus your energy on. With a traditional purchase, getting the lowest sale price is typically the goal, as that price, combined with the annual percentage rate (APR) of your loan’s interest as well as taxes on the vehicle, will be spread out over the course of a multi-year loan When leasing, your energy is better spent trying to determine the lowest possible payment, including all taxes and fees,2 since the term of the lease is typically shorter than a car loan term.

Shop at different dealerships before you select a car to lease, just as you would if you bought a car.

One tip: Don’t forget to ask for all lease terms, from each dealership, in writing so that you can compare all fees, prices and terms.

Why Do People Lease Cars?

Some people choose to lease a car because it allows them to drive higher-end cars for a more affordable monthly payment. Plus, a two- to three-year car lease allows drivers to easily and frequently upgrade their rides.

Of course, not everyone leases because they want luxury wheels. Lower down payments, warranties, and free routine maintenance are among the benefits lease customers often receive.

Another bonus is that depreciation of the car is deducted from the total lease cost you pay. And some who end their lease find the car is more highly valued than predicted. That may entitle the lease owner to a payout or credit.3 An easy way to determine if you might be entitled to a payout or credit would be to evaluate your vehicle’s value online and compare that value to your payoff amount. If your car is worth more than your payoff, you may want to discuss this issue with the dealership, to find out if you may be due some cash.

Many dealerships also offer leases for used cars. Those are usually certified preowned (CPO) cars. Those cars are generally newer, have low mileage and were inspected and repaired or refurbished.

What Are Some of the Downside of Car Leases?

The obvious downside to leasing a car is that you don’t own the car at the end of the lease. That means you don’t have a trade-in if you decide to purchase a car. Those that routinely lease cars over many years may pay more money than they would if they had initially bought the car.

Another thing to consider: You can break an auto lease, but it will likely cost you a hefty fee. Yes, you can sign a long-term lease, but that may negate the monetary benefits of leasing instead of buying a car. That’s because leasing typically costs you more than what you might have taken out in a long-term car loan. You’ll want to do the math to figure out if the numbers work in your favor to sign a long-term lease.

Should I Buy My Leased Car?

Just as you consider many factors when you lease a car, you need to analyze the costs and benefits of buying the car at the end of the lease.

First, do you like the car? Do you enjoy driving it and does it suit your needs? That may seem like a funny question but consider your lifestyle. If you leased a small, compact car so you can easily maneuver through traffic, for example, and are moving to a rural area where you may need a vehicle that has sturdier road handling capabilities, you may find the compact car unsuitable for your new location. On the other hand, you may not want to drive a large SUV if you are moving to a congested urban area.

Are you happy with the car’s performance? Do you find gas mileage is reasonable? Is the car always in the shop for warranty work? Analyze how much the car’s upkeep will cost you if you do buy it.

If you decide the leased car is the one you want to buy, look at the residual value. How much is the car worth and how much would you pay to get out of your lease before it expires?4

There are various strategies to save money when buying your leased car, including financing through your bank or working directly with the lender (the creditor that owns the car). If you decide to buy the leased car, explore all options.

As with most personal financial decisions, the pros and cons of leasing a car come down to a host of individual factors. Analyze your needs and budget and then shop to make sure you make the right decision for you.

Do you have questions about insuring your car? Learn about auto insurance from Travelers.”

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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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Insurance Terms, Explained

Insurance. A topic most of us might not understand, yet something we all should have.  The first step to making sure you are insured properly is understanding insurance. Anyone can sell you a policy THEY think you need, but who knows you better than you? Take the time to learn about insurance, so instead of an agent telling you what you need, they can assist you in the coverages you already know fit you and your family best.

Check out Safeco’s post below to better understand some of the most common insurance terms, or check out their blog to read more.

Med Pay? PIP? Dec pages? Insurance terms, explained

“With all kinds of different coverages for all kinds of different needs, insurance can be very confusing. And to make it even more challenging, at times it probably seems like insurance websites and policy documents are written in a completely foreign language.

Of course, that’s why we recommend working with an independent agent—someone who is on your side during the process and who can explain everything you need to know.

Even if you do work with an independent agent, however, it’s good to have a little basic knowledge about insurance. Below are definitions for some common terms that will help you understand your coverage a little better.

General insurance terms

  • Actual cash value: This type of coverage pays according to what an item was worth at the time it was damaged—it takes depreciation and wear and tear into account. For example, if you could have sold your couch for about $200 just before it was damaged, that’s the actual cash value, even if a similar new couch would cost $1,000.
  • Actual replacement cost: This pays the amount it would cost to replace a damaged item with a new one (such as the $1,000 couch above). It does not factor in depreciation or wear and tear.
  • Adjuster: A person who works for an insurance company to evaluate losses and settle claims.
  • Additional insured: Someone who is not the policyholder, but is still covered by an insurance policy.
  • Declarations page: This is what creates a contract between you and the insurance company. It describes who owns the policy, what property is covered and for how much, etc.
  • Deductible: The amount you agree to pay out of pocket before your insurance coverage kicks in. For example, if the cost to fix your car is $2,000, but your deductible is $1,000, you would pay $1,000 of the total cost. Typically, a higher deductible means a lower premium.
  • Endorsement: This is a change to your insurance policy’s coverage, usually made through a special form.
  • Exclusion: Something specifically listed in your policy that is not covered by the policy.
  • Liability: Your responsibility for injuries or damage to other people or property. You purchase insurance to protect against liability and other risks.
  • Loss of use: When damage from an accident or other cause prevents someone from being able to live in their home or drive their car.
  • Med Pay (medical payments): This pays for medical expenses for those covered by your policy in the event of an auto accident, regardless of fault. It also covers medical expenses for guests if they are injured on your property, but unless it is a car accident, it usually does not cover injuries someone suffers on their own property.
  • Premium: The amount you pay for an insurance policy.
  • Subrogation: When an insurance company pays a claim, and then seeks damages from a third party who was responsible for causing the damage or loss. For example, your insurance company might pay for your car to be fixed even though an accident wasn’t your fault—and then pursue reimbursement from the person who was at fault.
  • Term: The period of time your insurance policy is in effect, usually six or 12 months.
  • Umbrella: A policy that provides additional liability coverage. It kicks in after your other insurance policies have reached their coverage limits.
  • Underwriting: The evaluation process insurance companies use to determine if they will provide coverage to a customer.

Auto insurance terms

  • Aftermarket parts: Vehicle parts made by a different company than the one that manufactured those originally included with the vehicle.
  • Bodily injury coverage: Covers expenses for physical injuries, such as hospital bills or medical care.
  • Collision coverage: This pays for damage to a vehicle caused by you or someone else covered by your policy.
  • Comprehensive coverage: If your vehicle is damaged by something you could not control, such as fire or a tree falling, comprehensive coverage applies.
  • PIP (personal injury protection): This pays medical expenses for a policyholder or additional insured, and their passengers, if they are hurt in an auto accident, regardless of fault.
  • Uninsured/underinsured motorist (UIM): Pays for your damages and expenses if another driver is at fault in an accident but does not have enough insurance to cover your costs.

Homeowners insurance terms

  • Additional living expenses: Coverage for expenses above your usual living expenses, such as if you have to stay in a hotel because you can’t live in your damaged home.
  • Catastrophe: A disaster, such as a hurricane or tornado, that impacts a specific area and results in significant damage.
  • Flood insurance: Typically, standard homeowners policies do not provide coverage for flooding—it must be purchased separately.
  • Home contents: These are the things inside your house that aren’t fixed to the structure, such as your furniture, appliances, etc.
  • Peril: A specifically defined risk, such as hail, flooding, wind, etc.
  • Scheduled personal property: Separate coverage for high-value items, such as expensive jewelry, that exceed the limits of your policy or are otherwise excluded.

If something isn’t clear when you’re buying or considering insurance, don’t be afraid to ask questions! Your independent agent is there to help you get the coverage you need—and make sure you understand it, too.”

This article was written by Safeco Insurance 

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