Boat/Watercraft Insurance

Huge marble artworks dropped into the Mediterranean in a radical plan to eliminate illegal trawling fishing are finally allowing damaged ecosystems to regrow.

The underwater sculptures tackling illegal trawling

Posted on by Shield Insurance Agency

Positive News | by Veronique Mistiaen | August 8, 2022 | Illegal Trawling | Shield Insurance Blog

Huge marble artworks dropped into the Mediterranean in a radical plan to eliminate illegal trawling finally allowing damaged ecosystems to regrow.

What is illegal trawling?

Trawling is an industrial method of fishing that involves pulling a fishing net, that is heavily weighted to keep it on the seafloor, through the water behind one or more boats. The net used for trawling is called a trawl. Wikipedia

Deep into the sea off the coast of Talamone in Tuscany, lie a mermaid and a reclining figure carved in smooth Carrara marble. With other statues, they form a strange, dreamy underwater museum. They are silent guardians, protecting the sea against gangs trawling illegally at night.

With their nets ballasted with heavy chains dragging on the seafloor, the trawlers uproot the Posidonia meadows, a seagrass endemic to the Mediterranean and vital to the marine ecosystem, which soaks up 15 times more carbon dioxide annually than an equivalent area of the Amazon rainforest. 

The practice is illegal within three nautical miles of the coast of Italy, but because it is very profitable and impossible to police the 8,000km of Italian coastline, bottom trawlers carry on at night regardless.

For years, Paolo Fanciulli, a local fisherman alarmed at the devastation caused by the trawlers, has tried various ways to stop them, including placing concrete bollards on the bottom of the sea with the help of Talamone municipality. But it wasn’t enough. 

He thought the blocks might have more impact if they were carved by well-known artists, explained Ippolito Turco, a friend of Fanciulli and president of the non-profit Casa dei Pesci, which they created together to protect the sea. A Carrara quarry offered 100 huge blocks of marble, artists donated their time and locals fundraised for the project.

“I thought it was a brilliant idea: it would attract more attention to the problem,” said British stone sculptor Emily Young, who contributed three colossal heads.

There are now 39 underwater sculptures and marble blocks at Talamone, lowered in 2015 and 2020, and another 12 are ready to join them as soon as necessary funds can be raised.

They create a defense against the trawlers and a unique underwater museum, to anyone. The statues also provide a structure on which organisms can grow, encouraging more plant life and sea creatures to return.

“The first head, the 18-tonne Weeping Guardian, which was lowered down five years ago, shows a good growth of plant life, including anemones. Fish are making good use of the newly available food and hiding places,” said Young.

Click here for the rest of the story on illegal trawling..

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One of the most common questions people have is why it takes longer to get a business insurance quote than an auto insurance quote.

Cracking the Code: Why Auto Insurance Quotes Beat Business Insurance Quotes in Speed

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Shield Insurance Blog | Business Insurance | Insurance Quotes | Start A Quote Today!

Business Insurance Quotes vs Auto Insurance Quotes

When it comes to insurance, there are many factors that can affect the time it takes to get a quote. One of the most common questions people have is why it takes longer to get a business insurance quote than an auto insurance quote. In this blog post, we will explore the reasons behind this and provide some insights into the process.

Firstly, it is important to understand that business insurance is a much more complex and specialized type of coverage compared to auto insurance. Business insurance covers a wide range of risks and liabilities that are unique to each individual business. This means that the insurance company needs to gather more information and assess a greater number of factors in order to provide an accurate quote.

One of the main reasons why it takes longer to get a business insurance quote is the level of customization required. Unlike auto insurance, which has standardized coverage options, business insurance needs to be tailored to the specific needs of each business. This means that the insurance company needs to gather detailed information about the business, such as its size, industry, location, and the specific risks it faces. This information is used to determine the appropriate coverage and limits for the business, which can take time to assess.

Insurance Quotes

Another factor that can contribute to the longer quote process for business insurance is the number of insurance companies involved. Unlike auto insurance, where there are a limited number of providers, business insurance has a much larger market. This means that there are more insurance companies to choose from, each with its own underwriting guidelines and pricing models. In order to provide the best quote for a business, the insurance company needs to shop around and compare quotes from multiple providers. This can take time, especially if the business has unique or specialized needs.

Additionally, business insurance often requires more documentation and verification compared to auto insurance. This is because businesses typically have more assets and liabilities that need to be assessed. For example, a business may need to provide financial statements, inventory lists, or proof of compliance with certain regulations. This additional paperwork can add to the time it takes to get a quote, as the insurance company needs to review and verify the information provided.

Furthermore, the complexity of business insurance policies can also contribute to the longer quote process. Business insurance policies often have more coverage options and endorsements compared to auto insurance. This means that the insurance company needs to carefully review and assess each option to ensure that the policy meets the specific needs of the business. This level of detail and customization can take time to evaluate and determine the appropriate coverage and pricing.

In conclusion, there are several reasons why it takes longer to get a business insurance quote compared to an auto insurance quote. The level of customization required, the number of insurance companies involved, the additional documentation and verification, and the complexity of the policies all contribute to the longer quote process. However, it is important to remember that the extra time and effort put into obtaining a business insurance quote is necessary to ensure that the business is adequately protected. So, if you are in need of business insurance, be patient and provide the necessary information to get the best coverage for your unique needs.

If you are looking for the best RV insurance quote, camper van insurance, or the best insurance for Motorhome Insurance near you, Shield Insurance Agency can help. With over 40 insurance companies represented, they have the expertise and resources to find the right coverage at an affordable price. Contact Shield Insurance Agency at (616) 896-4600 for a free quote today or start the quoting process by visiting this LINK and an agent will be in touch soon. Protect your family and your business with the right insurance coverage from Shield Insurance Agency.

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To help you better understand this complex industry, we have compiled a comprehensive list of insurance terms that you should be familiar with.

Know Your Insurance Terms for Peace of Mind

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Shield Insurance Agency Blog | Insurance Terms | Start a Quote Today!

Insurance is an essential aspect of our lives, providing us with the necessary protection and peace of mind. However, navigating the world of insurance can be overwhelming, especially with the numerous terms and jargon often used. To help you better understand this complex industry, we have compiled a comprehensive list of insurance terms that you should be familiar with. Whether you are a seasoned policyholder or a newcomer to the world of insurance, this list will serve as a valuable resource.

Insurance Terms

1. Premium: The amount of money you pay to the insurance company in exchange for coverage. Premiums can be paid monthly, quarterly, or annually, depending on the policy.

2. Deductible: The amount of money you must pay out of pocket before your insurance coverage kicks in. For example, if you have a $500 deductible and file a claim for $1,000, you will pay the first $500, and the insurance company will cover the remaining $500.

3. Policy: A contract between you and the insurance company that outlines the terms and conditions of your coverage. It specifies what is covered, the limits of coverage, and any exclusions or conditions.

4. Coverage: The protection provided by an insurance policy. It can include various types, such as auto, home, health, life, and more.

5. Liability: The legal responsibility for any damages or injuries caused to others. Liability coverage is designed to protect you in case you are held responsible for an accident or injury.

6. Claim: A formal request made by the policyholder to the insurance company for compensation or reimbursement for a covered loss or damage.

7. Underwriting: The process of evaluating an applicant’s risk and determining the terms and conditions of their insurance policy. It involves assessing factors such as age, health, driving record, and more.

8. Exclusion: Specific situations or conditions that are not covered by an insurance policy. It is important to review your policy carefully to understand what is excluded from coverage.

9. Rider: An additional provision or amendment to an insurance policy that modifies or expands the coverage. Riders are often used to add specific coverage options or increase policy limits.

10. Agent: A licensed professional who represents an insurance company and helps individuals or businesses find the right insurance coverage. They can provide guidance, answer questions, and assist with the claims process.

11. Insured: The person or entity covered by an insurance policy. This can be an individual, a family, or a business.

12. Loss: The reduction in value or damage to property or assets covered by an insurance policy. It can be due to theft, accident, natural disaster, or other covered events.

13. No-claims bonus: A discount or reward given by insurance companies to policyholders who do not file any claims during a specific period. It encourages safe driving and responsible behavior.

14. Comprehensive coverage: An insurance policy that provides protection against a wide range of risks and perils, including theft, vandalism, fire, and natural disasters.

15. Grace period: The additional time given to policyholders to pay their premium after the due date without incurring a penalty or losing coverage.

16. Subrogation: The process by which an insurance company seeks reimbursement from a third party who is responsible for the loss or damage covered by the policy. It allows the insurance company to recover the amount paid to the policyholder.

17. Actuary: A professional who uses statistical data and mathematical models to assess risk and determine insurance premiums. They play a crucial role in pricing policies and ensuring the financial stability of insurance companies.

18. Umbrella policy: An additional liability insurance policy that provides coverage beyond the limits of your primary policies. It offers an extra layer of protection against high-cost claims or lawsuits.

19. Depreciation: The decrease in the value of an asset over time due to wear and tear or obsolescence. Insurance policies often take depreciation into account when determining the amount of compensation for a covered loss.

20. Endorsement: A written amendment or addition to an insurance policy that changes the terms or coverage. It can be used to add or remove coverage options, increase or decrease policy limits, or modify other policy provisions.

Understanding these insurance terms will empower you to make informed decisions when it comes to protecting yourself, your family, and your assets. Remember, insurance is not just a financial product; it is a shield that safeguards your future. If you have any questions or need assistance in finding the right insurance coverage, contact Shield Insurance Agency at (616) 896-4600 for a free quote today. You can also start the quoting process by visiting this LINK, and an agent will be in touch soon. Stay protected and enjoy peace of mind with comprehensive insurance coverage.

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Insurance 101 for Beginners

Insurance 101 for Beginners

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Shield Insurance Blog | Insurance | Start a Quote Today!

What do I need to Know About Insurance?

Insurance is a crucial aspect of our lives that provides financial protection and peace of mind. Whether it’s car insurance, homeowners insurance, or any other type of insurance, understanding the basics is essential. In this blog post, we will explore the fundamental concepts of insurance, different types of insurance, and why it is important to have the right coverage.

Insurance is a contract between an individual or business and an insurance company. The individual or business pays a premium, and in return, the insurance company agrees to provide financial protection in the event of a covered loss. The purpose of insurance is to transfer the risk of potential financial loss from the insured to the insurance company.

Basic Terms and Definitions

To understand insurance better, it is essential to familiarize yourself with some basic terms and definitions. Here are a few key terms:

  • Premium: The amount of money paid to the insurance company for coverage.
  • Deductible: The amount the insured must pay out of pocket before the insurance company starts covering the loss.
  • Policy: The contract that outlines the terms and conditions of the insurance coverage.
  • Coverage: The specific protection provided by the insurance policy.
  • Claim: A request made by the insured to the insurance company for compensation for a covered loss.

Car Insurance for Beginners

Car insurance is one of the most common types of insurance that people need. It provides financial protection in case of accidents, theft, or damage to your vehicle. Here are a few things to consider when getting car insurance:

  • Liability Coverage: This coverage pays for damages and injuries you cause to others in an accident.
  • Collision Coverage: This coverage pays for damages to your vehicle in case of a collision.
  • Comprehensive Coverage: This coverage pays for damages to your vehicle caused by events other than collisions, such as theft or natural disasters.

Renters and Homeowners Coverage for Beginners

If you rent or own a home, it is crucial to have renters or homeowners insurance to protect your belongings and property. Here are a few key points to consider:

  • Renters Insurance: This type of insurance provides coverage for your personal belongings in case of theft, fire, or other covered events. It also provides liability coverage in case someone gets injured in your rented property.
  • Homeowners Insurance: This insurance covers your home and belongings against damage or loss caused by covered events. It also provides liability coverage and additional living expenses if your home becomes uninhabitable.

What other types of Insurance are there?

Apart from car insurance and homeowners/renters insurance, there are several other types of insurance that you may need depending on your circumstances. Some common types include:

  • Health Insurance: This insurance provides coverage for medical expenses and can help protect you from high healthcare costs.
  • Life Insurance: Life insurance provides financial protection to your loved ones in case of your death. It can help cover funeral expenses, pay off debts, and provide income replacement.
  • Disability Insurance: This insurance provides income replacement if you become disabled and are unable to work.
  • Umbrella Insurance: Umbrella insurance provides additional liability coverage beyond the limits of your other insurance policies. It can protect you from large lawsuits and claims.

Protection, Family, and Shield Agency

Insurance is all about protection, especially when it comes to your family and assets. Shield Insurance Agency understands the importance of having the right coverage and represents over 40 insurance companies to provide you with the best options. Whether you need car insurance, homeowners insurance, or any other type of insurance, Shield Insurance Agency can help.

Contact Shield Insurance Agency at (616) 896-4600 for a free quote today or start the quoting process by visiting this LINK, and an agent will be in touch soon. Don’t wait until it’s too late – protect yourself and your loved ones with the right insurance coverage.

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By Denis Riek via The Global Ocean Surface Ecosystem Alliance, CC license

Pacific Garbage Patch Is Full of Life

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Goodnews Network.org | By Andy Corbley | Jul 27, 2023 | Pacific Garbage Patch | Shield Insurance Blog

Pacific Garbage Patch Is Teeming With Life–An Ecosystem Older Than Plastic But No One Saw it

Pacific Garbage Patch Is Teeming With Life–An Ecosystem Older Than Plastic But No One Saw it

In the northern Pacific Ocean, a powerful ocean ‘gyre’ pulls together several ocean currents into a single region—the site of the infamous Great Pacific Garbage Patch (GPGP).

However, longer before there was plastic waste in these waters, and in spite of it, the Northern Pacific Ocean gyre is teeming with specially-adapted marine organisms that drift through the sea.

Take this beautiful violet snail above, constructing floating bubble rafts by dipping its body into the air and trapping one bubble at a time, which it then wraps in mucus and sticks to its floater.

Scientists recently documented hundreds of different life forms all concentrated within the center of the GPGP, where 1.8 trillion pieces of plastic have created an environmental feature like no other on Earth.

A swimmer named Benoît Lecomte completed a swim of 389 miles across the GPGP in 2019 and asked the scientists at Georgetown University to accompany the support crew in order to document the sea life.

The work they did has now been published in the journal PLOS One. They found greater concentrations of wildlife inside the GPGP than on its periphery. This is not because of, but in spite of, the trillions of pieces of plastic, as these living ocean hitchhikers evolved to use ocean gyres and currents to get around over thousands of years.

Violet snails, blue button jellies, by-the-wind sailor jellies, and sea slugs called blue sea dragons that hunt the tentacles of man o’ wars to use as makeshift protection, are all found there in large numbers.

“We saw just massive amounts of life at the surface,” study senior author Rebecca Helm, a marine biologist at Georgetown University, told National Geographic. “We’ve seen so many pictures of plastic from the Great Pacific Garbage Patch, but we’ve never seen any pictures of life there.”

“These places that we’ve been calling garbage patches are really important ecosystems that we know very little about.”

MORE SURPRISING OCEAN LIFE: Scientists Discover Pristine Deep-Sea Coral Reefs in Galápagos Marine Reserve ‘Teeming With Life’

The technical term for all this floating sea life is called neuston, and much of it is colored blue atop, and white beneath—a sort of camouflage Helm and her team believe.

Most of our children will never be able to see the GPGP, because it’s currently on track to be totally cleaned down to the microplastic level over the next 20 years.

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Boat Insurance and What You Need to Know

Boat Insurance and What You Need to Know

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Shield Insurance Blog | Boat Insurance | Start A Quote Today!

When you own a boat, whether it’s a small fishing boat or a luxurious yacht, it’s important to protect your investment. Boat insurance is designed to provide coverage for different types of watercraft, and in Michigan, having boat insurance is a legal requirement. Shield Insurance Agency represents over 40 insurance companies and can help you find the right policy that suits your needs. Contact Shield Insurance Agency at (616) 896-4600 for a free quote today or start the quoting process by visiting this LINK and an agent will be in touch soon.

Michigan is known for its beautiful lakes and waterways, making it a popular destination for boating enthusiasts. However, it’s important to remember that accidents can happen, and having boat insurance can provide financial protection in case of an unfortunate event.

Boat insurance policies typically provide coverage for the following:

  1. Physical damage: Boat insurance can cover the cost of repairing or replacing your boat if it is damaged in an accident or other covered event. This includes coverage for collisions, fire, theft, and vandalism.
  2. Liability coverage: Liability coverage is essential for boat owners as it protects you if you are responsible for causing damage to someone else’s property or injuring someone while operating your boat. This coverage can help cover legal expenses and any damages awarded in a lawsuit.
  3. Medical payments coverage: Boat insurance can also provide coverage for medical expenses for you and your passengers in the event of an accident. This can help cover the cost of hospital bills, doctor visits, and other medical services.
  4. Uninsured/underinsured boater coverage: If you are involved in an accident with an uninsured or underinsured boater, this coverage can help cover your medical expenses and property damage.
  5. Personal effects coverage: Boat insurance policies can also provide coverage for personal belongings that are aboard the boat, such as fishing equipment, water skis, and other gear.

It’s important to note that boat insurance policies can vary in terms of coverage, limits, and exclusions. Therefore, it’s always a good idea to review your policy with an experienced insurance agent to ensure that you have the right amount of coverage for your specific needs.

When shopping for boat insurance in Michigan, it’s important to consider the following factors:

  1. The type and size of your boat: The type and size of your boat will impact your insurance rates. Generally, larger and more expensive boats will require higher coverage limits and will therefore have higher premiums.
  2. The value of your boat: It’s important to insure your boat for its full value to ensure that you are adequately protected in the event of a total loss. Working with an experienced insurance agent can help you determine the appropriate value of your boat.
  3. Your boating experience: Some insurance companies may offer discounts for boaters with a clean driving record and extensive boating experience. Make sure to inquire about any available discounts when shopping for boat insurance.
  4. Storage and security: Insurance companies may also consider where and how your boat is stored when determining your premiums. Having a secure storage facility or anti-theft devices installed on your boat can help lower your rates.

Michigan has specific regulations and requirements for boat insurance, and it’s important to be aware of these to avoid any penalties. In Michigan, all motorized boats must be covered by liability insurance with minimum coverage limits. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in fines and other penalties.

Boat insurance is not only a legal requirement in Michigan, but it’s also a smart investment to protect your financial well-being. Accidents can happen at any time, and the costs of repairs, medical bills, and legal expenses can be significant. Having boat insurance can provide peace of mind and help you navigate through any unforeseen circumstances.

When shopping for boat insurance in Michigan, it’s important to work with an experienced insurance agency that understands the local market and can help you find the right policy for your needs. Shield Insurance Agency represents over 40 insurance companies and can provide you with options and competitive rates. Contact Shield Insurance Agency at (616) 896-4600 for a free quote today or start the quoting process by visiting this LINK and an agent will be in touch soon. Protect your investment and enjoy your time on the water with the right boat insurance policy.

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Swallowed By Whale

Kayakers Swallowed By Whale Live To Tell The Tale

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Shield Insurance Blog | June 8, 2023 | Swallowed By Whale | Life Insurance | Start A Quote Today

VIDEO: Humpback whale almost swallows kayakers near a California beach

The two managed to escape unscathed, briefly going underwater after capsizing before reemerging.

Julie McSorley says she learned an important lesson after she and her friend ended up in a humpback’s mouth: “Whales need their space.”

McSorley and Liz Cottriel were kayaking together in California’s San Luis Obispo Bay watching the whales feed on silverfish when one of the massive sea creatures surfaced beneath them, toppling their kayak and knocking them into the water.

Videos and photos from other kayakers and paddlers appear to show the women and their kayak being momentarily engulfed in the whale’s mouth — though the two friends say it all happened too fast for them to be sure.

“It’s definitely woke me up to the realization that, you know, our place is not in the feeding zone of whales,” McSorley told As It Happens host Carol Off.

“We didn’t think we were that close, but we definitely were right in the area that we shouldn’t have been — so I’ve learned my lesson, big time.”

Swallowed By Whale

AVILA BEACH, Calif. — Two whale watchers had a close encounter while kayaking off the coast of Avila Beach, California, that they will likely never forget.

Julie McSorley and Liz Cottriel were watching humpback whales on Monday when one decided to get up close and personal. A whale came up underneath them and caused them to capsize.

“I saw the big pool of fish, the big bait ball come up out of the water,” McSorley told CNN affiliate KMPH. “I saw the whale come up. I thought, ‘Oh, no! It’s too close.'”

“All of a sudden, I lifted up, and I was in the water.”

Footage from a witness nearby makes it appear as if the kayakers are being swallowed by the whale, but the two just tipped over.

“The whale was right here in my face, literally,” Cottriel told KMPH.

“I’m thinking to myself, ‘I’m gonna push. Like, I’m gonna push a whale out of the way! It was the weirdest thought. I’m thinking, ‘I’m dead. I’m dead.’ I thought it was gonna land on me. Next thing I know, I’m underwater.”

The two managed to escape unscathed, briefly going underwater after capsizing before reemerging.

Humpback whales typically feed on krill and small fish, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

The NOAA says humpback whales are popular among whale watchers as they are active on the surface and often jump out and slap the water with their pectoral fins or tails.

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Father’s Day 2023 is Sun, Jun 18

Love your Daddy! This Sun, Jun 18, 2023, is Father’s Day!

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HISTORY.COM | MAY 15, 2023 | Father’s Day | Recreational Insurance | Start a Quote Today!

The nation’s first Father’s Day was celebrated on June 19, 1910, in the state of Washington. However, it was not until 1972—58 years after President Woodrow Wilson made Mother’s Day official—that the day honoring fathers became a nationwide holiday in the United States. Father’s Day 2023 will occur on Sunday, June 18.

Mother’s Day: Inspiration for Father’s Day

The “Mother’s Day” we celebrate today has its origins in the peace-and-reconciliation campaigns of the post-Civil War era. During the 1860s, at the urging of activist Ann Reeves Jarvis, one divided West Virginia town celebrated “Mother’s Work Days” which brought together the mothers of Confederate and Union soldiers.

Did you know? There are more than 70 million fathers in the United States.

However, Mother’s Day did not become a commercial holiday until 1908, when–inspired by Jarvis’s daughter, Anna Jarvis, who wanted to honor her own mother by making Mother’s Day a national holiday–the John Wanamaker department store in Philadelphia sponsored a service dedicated to mothers in its auditorium.

Thanks in large part to this association with retailers, who saw great potential for profit in the holiday, Mother’s Day caught on right away. In 1909, 45 states observed the day, and in 1914, President Woodrow Wilson approved a resolution that made the second Sunday in May a holiday in honor of “that tender, gentle army, the mothers of America.”

FEATURED

Why the Founder of Mother’s Day Turned Against It

Anna Jarvis, who founded Mother’s Day in 1908, passionately opposed its growing commercialization and eventually campaigned against the holiday.

Origins of Father’s Day

The campaign to celebrate the nation’s fathers did not meet with the same enthusiasm–perhaps because, as one florist explained, “fathers haven’t the same sentimental appeal that mothers have.”

On July 5, 1908, a West Virginia church sponsored the nation’s first event explicitly in honor of fathers, a Sunday sermon in memory of the 362 men who had died in the previous December’s explosions at the Fairmont Coal Company mines in Monongah, but it was a one-time commemoration and not an annual holiday.

The next year, a Spokane, Washington, woman named Sonora Smart Dodd, one of six children raised by a widower, tried to establish an official equivalent to Mother’s Day for male parents. She went to local churches, the YMCA, shopkeepers and government officials to drum up support for her idea, and she was successful: Washington State celebrated the nation’s first statewide Father’s Day on June 19, 1910.

Slowly, the holiday spread. In 1916, President Wilson honored the day by using telegraph signals to unfurl a flag in Spokane when he pressed a button in Washington, D.C. In 1924, President Calvin Coolidge urged state governments to observe Father’s Day.

Today, the day honoring fathers is celebrated in the United States on the third Sunday of June: Father’s Day 2021 occurs on June 20.

In other countries–especially in Europe and Latin America–fathers are honored on St. Joseph’s Day, a traditional Catholic holiday that falls on March 19.

Click here to enjoy a fascinating video of several Founding Fathers

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Shark Attack App Uses AI to Forecast and Detect Risk for Swimmers at 89% Accuracy

Shark Attack App Uses AI to Forecast and Detect Risk for Swimmers at 89% Accuracy

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A sophisticated app generates shark attack “forecasts” using artificial intelligence.

GoodNewsNetwork.org | By Andy Corbley | May 19, 2023 | Shark Attack | Boat Insurance

The developers are taking advantage of a deep learning algorithm to compartmentalize over a hundred years of shark attack data to create a sort-of weather forecast for beaches around the US with an 89% accuracy.

Called SafeWaters.AI, they hope not only to save lives—their primary objective—but to help reduce the persecution of sharks in response to attacks on humans.

Shark Attack Risks

The risk of shark attack is about 1 in every 3.7 million swimmers, and 60% (28) of all recorded shark attacks in the US have occurred in Florida.

As the developers point out, most consumers of news regarding AI see it employed for aspects that seem frightening or purely futuristic, such as deep fake video creation or self-driving cars.

But the ability of a targeted AI to parse out trends and forces in mountains of data lends it to working with all manner of unique applications. In this case, over a hundred years of shark attack reports are analyzed, with data points being whether it was a swimmer or surfer, where the victim was swimming, what time of day it was, what the marine weather conditions were like, and even whether they were wearing shiny jewelry.

Shark Attack App Uses AI to Forecast and Detect Risk for Swimmers at 89% Accuracy

credit SafeWaters AI

In an era where artificial intelligence is progressively transforming our daily lives, a groundbreaking app, SafeWatersAI, has arrived. This innovative application, which has recently launched its crowdfunding campaign on Kickstarter, revolutionizes our interaction with marine environments. SafeWaters forecasts the risk of shark attacks with an impressive 89% accuracy rate. You can say it’s like a weather app, for sharkiness.

All of this contributes to the total percentage risk displayed on the app.

Currently, the project is being crowdfunded, with 5% of all future sales to be donated to ocean cleanup efforts.

Click here to read the full article and see some great photos…

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Boat Insurance: Protecting Your Watercraft and Your Family

Boat Insurance: Protecting Your Watercraft and Your Family

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Shield Insurance Agency Blog | Boat Insurance | Click here to start a quote today!

Boating is a popular pastime for many families and friends, whether it’s cruising on a lake or sailing on the ocean. However, owning a boat comes with its own set of risks and responsibilities. That’s where boat insurance comes in. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the importance of boat insurance, the different types of coverage available, and how to get a boat insurance quote.

What is Boat Insurance?

Boat insurance, also known as marine insurance, is a type of insurance policy that provides coverage for your watercraft and its passengers. It protects you financially in case of accidents, theft, or damage to your boat. Boat insurance can also cover liability, medical expenses, and other related costs.

Why Do You Need Boat Insurance?

Boat insurance is not only important for protecting your investment, but also for protecting your family and friends who may be on board. Accidents can happen on the water just as easily as they can on land, and the consequences can be just as severe. Without boat insurance, you could be held liable for damages or injuries caused by your boat.

In addition, many marinas and waterways require proof of insurance before allowing you to dock or launch your boat. Without insurance, you may not be able to use your boat in certain areas.

What Does Boat Insurance Cover?

Boat insurance policies can vary depending on the type of coverage you choose. Here are some of the most common types of coverage:

1. Liability Coverage: This type of coverage protects you if you are found to be at fault for an accident on the water. It can cover damages to other boats, property, or injuries to other people.

2. Collision Coverage: This type of coverage pays for damages to your boat if it collides with another boat or object.

3. Comprehensive Coverage: This type of coverage covers damages to your boat that are not caused by a collision, such as theft, fire, or vandalism.

4. Medical Payments Coverage: This type of coverage pays for medical expenses for you and your passengers if you are injured in an accident on the water.

5. Uninsured/Underinsured Boater Coverage: This type of coverage protects you if you are in an accident with another boater who does not have insurance or does not have enough insurance to cover the damages.

6. Yacht Insurance: Yacht insurance is a type of boat insurance that is specifically designed for larger, more expensive boats. It provides higher limits of coverage and additional features such as crew coverage and emergency towing.

How Much Does Boat Insurance Cost?

The cost of boat insurance can vary depending on a number of factors, including the type of boat, its value, and the coverage you choose. Generally, the larger and more expensive the boat, the more expensive the insurance will be. However, there are ways to lower your boat insurance cost, such as taking a boating safety course, installing safety equipment on your boat, and choosing a higher deductible.

How to Get a Quote

If you’re in the market for boat insurance, the first step is to contact an insurance agency that specializes in boat insurance. Shield Insurance Agency represents over 40 companies and can help you find the best coverage for your needs. To get a boat insurance quote, simply call Shield Insurance Agency at (616) 896-4600 or visit their website to fill out a quote request form.

In conclusion, boat insurance is an important investment for any boat owner. It not only protects your boat but also your family and friends who may be on board. With the right coverage, you can enjoy your time on the water with peace of mind. Contact Shield Insurance Agency today to get a boat insurance quote and start protecting your watercraft and your loved ones.

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