Life Insurance

Insurance 101 for Beginners

Insurance 101 for Beginners

Posted on by Shield Insurance Agency

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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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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Wounded Soldiers are being enlisted to restore coral reefs of the Florida Keys, giving them a new mission and purpose.

Wounded Soldiers Help Scientists Save Coral Reefs

Posted on by Shield Insurance Agency

GoodNews Network | By Andy Corbley | Jul 28, 2023 | Wounded Soldiers | Shield Blog

‘A Blessing’ For Wounded Soldiers Who Help Scientists Save Coral Reefs

Wounded US Army veterans are being enlisted to restore coral reefs of the Florida Keys, giving them a new mission and purpose.

Feeling like they have no purpose is a common despair from veterans of several generations, and the work under the waves is helping combat that sense of listlessness, not to mention putting them in an environment where a lost leg is not nearly as impeding.

The work is part of a collaboration between the Mote Marine Laboratory and the non-profit Combat Wounded Veteran Challenge (CWVC).

Veteran Woulded Soldiers

For a week every year, a team of veterans comes down to help Michael Crosby “re-skin” coral reefs below the waves off the southern tip of Florida.

Crosby has been breeding corals of specific phenotypes that demonstrate tolerance and resilience to rising temperatures and more acidic water, representing conditions that may arise during the next 50 years as the climate changes.

Taking the nursery-raised coral down with them, this year’s work saw a team of 31 veterans seed 1,040 new corals in a reef called Higgs Head. This takes the total of such corals planted by the Mote Laboratory to over 200,000.

They dive down to first clean the dead or dying corals of algae, then use an epoxy resin to glue new, lab-grown coral fragments.

MORE GOOD CORAL NEWS: $25 Million Donation Launches Largest Coral Restoration Project in Hawaii to Renew 120 Miles of Reef

“They have been instrumental in my recovery, helping me learn what I was going to be able to do after losing my leg,” said 41-year-old Army veteran Billy Costello. “It’s great for the heart and the soul, especially when you’re around a group of veterans that have gone through very similar situations and have beat the odds and recovered in such a positive way… It is such a blessing.”

“The coral planting gives the wounded, ill, or injured service member a new found sense of purpose, they get to help the environment and work as a team with other military members who have been what they have been through,” said Lt. Col. (Ret) Andrew Lourake, CWVC Vice President of Operations. “The challenge, camaraderie, and knowing they are making a difference is the highlight of the year for almost all our participants.”

Click here for some more images of wounded soldiers helping the great reefs.

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Group Life Insurance: An Employee Benefit

Group life insurance is a valuable employee benefit.

Posted on by Shield Insurance Agency

Shield Insurance Blog | Group Life Insurance |

Group Life Insurance is a type of insurance policy that provides coverage to a group of people, typically employees of a company or members of an organization. It is a popular benefit offered by employers to their employees as part of their employee benefits package. In this blog post, we will discuss the requirement, purpose, working, advantages and disadvantages, types, and companies that offer Group Life Insurance.

What is the Requirement for Group Life Insurance?

Group Life Insurance is not mandatory, but many employers offer it as part of their employee benefits package. It is a way for employers to attract and retain employees by providing them with valuable benefits. Additionally, some states require employers to offer Group Life Insurance to their employees if they offer other types of insurance benefits.

What is the purpose of Group Life Insurance?

The purpose of Group Life Insurance is to provide financial protection to the beneficiaries of the policy in the event of the insured’s death. The beneficiaries can be the insured’s family members, dependents, or anyone else designated by the insured. The death benefit is typically a multiple of the insured’s salary, and it can be used to pay for funeral expenses, outstanding debts, and other expenses.

How Does Group Life Insurance Work?

Group Life Insurance works by pooling the risk of the insured individuals. The premiums are paid by the employer, and the coverage is provided to all eligible employees. The premiums are based on the age, gender, and health of the group, and the death benefit is based on the insured’s salary. The policy is owned by the employer, and the insured individuals are covered as long as they are employed by the company and meet the eligibility requirements.

What Are the Advantages and Disadvantages?

The advantages of Group Life Insurance are that it is affordable, easy to obtain, and provides coverage to a large group of people. It is also a valuable benefit that can help attract and retain employees. The disadvantages are that the coverage is typically limited, and it may not be enough to meet the needs of all beneficiaries. Additionally, the coverage ends when the insured leaves the company, and it may not be portable.

What Types of Companies offer Group Life Insurance?

Many companies offer Group Life Insurance, including insurance companies, brokers, and agents. Shield Insurance Agency represents over 40 insurance companies and can help you find the best policy for 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.

What Happens to Group Life Insurance Coverage After I Retire?

Group Life Insurance coverage typically ends when the insured leaves the company. However, some policies may offer a conversion option that allows the insured to convert their Group Life Insurance policy to an individual policy. The conversion option may be available for a limited time after the insured leaves the company, and the premiums may be higher than the group rates.

What Are the Types of Group Life Insurance?

There are two types of Group Life Insurance: term life insurance and permanent life insurance. Term life insurance provides coverage for a specific period, typically one to five years, and the premiums are based on the age and health of the group. Permanent life insurance provides coverage for the insured’s lifetime, and the premiums are based on the insured’s age, gender, and health. Permanent life insurance also has a cash value component that can be used to pay for expenses or as an investment.

In conclusion, Group Life Insurance is a valuable benefit that provides financial protection to the beneficiaries of the policy in the event of the insured’s death. It is affordable, easy to obtain, and provides coverage to a large group of people. However, the coverage is typically limited, and it may not be enough to meet the needs of all beneficiaries. Shield Insurance Agency represents over 40 insurance companies and can help you find the best policy for 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.

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500-Pound Bear REPEATEDLY Steals Candy From Gas Station

500-Pound Bear Repeatedly Steals Candy From Gas Station

Posted on by Shield Insurance Agency

SunnySkyz.com | June 22, 2023 | 500-Pound Bear | Business Insurance

Chocolate-Obsessed 500-Pound Bear REPEATEDLY Steals Candy From Gas Station

In an unusual turn of events, a mischievous bear has been causing quite a stir in Lake Tahoe, California.

The bear’s exploits first came to light when a surveillance camera captured footage of the furry culprit stealthily entering the convenience store during the late hours of the night.

After scaring the employee off, he made his way to the candy aisle, grabbed a bag os Snickers, and took off.

But once he got a taste of chocolate, he kept coming back for more…

From CBS NEWS:

Could it be the same 500-Pound Bear doing home break-ins? Meet Hank the Tank

South Lake Tahoe, California — DNA evidence now shows that a 500-pound black bear the public had nicknamed “Hank the Tank” — blamed for breaking into dozens of homes across the Tahoe Keys area — may be innocent.

The state Department of Fish and Wildlife on Thursday said there were three other bears responsible for damaging more than 30 properties that were originally linked solely to Hank.

The agency will soon begin trapping bears in the South Lake Tahoe area to tag the animals and collect evidence for genetic analysis. The bears will be released in a “suitable habitat” and the agency said no trapped animals will be euthanized as part of the project.

The bears are responsible for more than 150 incident reports in the region straddling Northern California and Nevada, including a break-in at a residence in the Tahoe Keys neighborhood last week.

Fish and Wildlife has concluded that Hank may not even be responsible for any of the break-ins over the last seven months, officials said on Thursday.

“Hank is not the culprit,” Bear League Director Ann Bryant told CBS San Francisco.

“Just like they say in the murder shows — you can’t argue with DNA!” she laughed.

Click Here to Meet Hank the Tank

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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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Term Life Insurance: Protecting Your Family with Affordable Coverage

Term Life Insurance: Protecting Your Family with Affordable Coverage

Posted on by Shield Insurance Agency

Shield Insurance Agency Blog | Term Life Insurance | Life Insurance | Start A Quote Today

As a responsible adult, you want to ensure that your family is protected in case of any unforeseen circumstances. One of the best ways to do this is by investing in a term life insurance policy. It provides a lump sum payment to your beneficiaries in case of your untimely death, ensuring that they are financially secure even in your absence. However, with so many options available in the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the best term life insurance policy for your needs. In this blog post, we will discuss the key factors to consider when selecting a term life insurance policy and how Shield Insurance Agency can help you find affordable coverage.

What is Term Life Insurance?

Term life insurance is a type of life insurance policy that provides coverage for a specific period, usually ranging from 5 to 30 years. It is a popular choice among individuals who want to ensure that their family is protected during a specific period, such as the duration of a mortgage or until their children are financially independent. Unlike permanent life insurance policies, such as whole life or universal life insurance, term life insurance policies do not accumulate cash value and are typically more affordable.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Term Life Insurance Policy

When selecting a term life insurance policy, there are several factors to consider to ensure that you get the best coverage for your needs. These include:

  • Coverage Amount: The coverage amount should be sufficient to cover your family’s financial needs in case of your untimely death. It should take into account your outstanding debts, future expenses, and income replacement needs.
  • Term Length: The term length should align with your financial goals and needs. For instance, if you have a 30-year mortgage, you may want to consider a 30-year term life insurance policy.
  • Premiums: The premiums should be affordable and fit within your budget. It is essential to consider the long-term affordability of the policy, as premiums may increase over time.
  • Deductible: Some term life insurance policies may have a deductible, which is the amount you need to pay before the insurance coverage kicks in. It is essential to consider the deductible amount and how it may impact your financial situation.
  • Insurance Company: It is crucial to choose a reputable insurance company that has a strong financial rating and a history of paying out claims.

How Shield Insurance Agency Can Help You Find Affordable Coverage

At Shield Insurance Agency, we understand that selecting the best term life insurance policy can be overwhelming. That’s why we are here to help you find affordable coverage that meets your needs. As an independent insurance agency, we represent over 40 insurance companies, giving us access to a wide range of policies and pricing options. Our experienced agents will work with you to understand your financial goals and needs and provide you with a term life insurance quote that fits within your budget.

To get started, you can 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. We will guide you through the process of selecting the best term life insurance policy for your needs and ensure that you have the protection your family deserves.

In conclusion, investing in a term life insurance policy is an essential step in protecting your family’s financial future. By considering the factors mentioned above and working with Shield Insurance Agency, you can find affordable coverage that meets your needs and provides you with peace of mind. Contact us today to get started on your journey toward financial security.

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Father’s Day 2023 is Sun, Jun 18

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

Posted on by Shield Insurance Agency

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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Health Insurance

Health Insurance: The Importance of Protection for You and Your Family

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Shield Insurance Agency Blog | Health Insurance | Contact Bri or Carlos for details

Medical expenses can be a significant financial burden, especially if you or a family member
requires extensive medical treatment. Health insurance is a crucial tool that can help you
manage these costs and ensure that you and your loved ones receive the care you need. In this
blog post, we will explore the different types of health insurance available, the benefits of having
health insurance, and how to find affordable coverage.

Types of Health Insurance

There are two main types of health insurance: private health insurance and public health
insurance. Private health insurance is typically purchased by individuals or provided by
employers as part of a benefits package. Public health insurance is provided by the government
and includes programs like Medicare and Medicaid.

Supplemental health insurance is another type of coverage that can be added to your existing
health insurance plan. This type of insurance can help cover costs that are not included in your
primary health insurance plan, such as deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance.
Benefits of Having Health Insurance

The primary benefit of having health insurance is protection. Health insurance can help cover
the costs of medical treatment, including doctor visits, hospital stays, and prescription
medications. Without health insurance, these expenses can quickly add up and become
Unmanageable.

In addition to financial protection, health insurance can also provide peace of mind. Knowing
that you and your family are covered in the event of a medical emergency can alleviate stress
and anxiety.

Finding Affordable Health Insurance

One of the biggest concerns for many people when it comes to health insurance is affordability.
Fortunately, there are several ways to find affordable coverage.

One option is to shop around for health insurance quotes. Shield Insurance Agency represents
over 40 insurance companies and can help you find a plan that fits your needs and budget.

Contact Shield Insurance Agency at (616) 896-4600 for a free quote today.

Another option is to consider a high-deductible health plan. These plans typically have lower
monthly premiums but require you to pay a higher deductible before your insurance coverage
kicks in. While this can be a riskier option, it can also be a good choice for those who are
generally healthy and do not anticipate needing extensive medical treatment.

Finally, you may be eligible for public health insurance programs like Medicaid or Medicare.
These programs are designed to provide coverage for low-income individuals and seniors,
respectively.

Choosing the Right Health Insurance Plan

When choosing a health insurance plan, it is important to consider your specific needs and
budget. Some factors to consider include:

  • Monthly premiums: How much can you afford to pay each month for health insurance?
  • Deductibles: How much will you have to pay out of pocket before your insurance coverage kicks in?
  • Copayments and coinsurance: How much will you be responsible for paying for doctor visits,
    prescriptions, and other medical expenses?
  • Network: Does the plan include the doctors and hospitals you prefer to use?
  • Coverage: Does the plan cover the medical treatments and services you need?

By carefully considering these factors, you can choose a health insurance plan that provides the
protection you need at a price you can afford.

In conclusion, health insurance is a crucial tool for protecting yourself and your family from the
financial burden of medical expenses. Whether you choose private health insurance, public
health insurance, or supplemental health insurance, it is important to find a plan that fits your
needs and budget. By working with Shield Insurance Agency and carefully considering your
options, you can find affordable health insurance coverage that provides the protection you
need.

Contact A Shield Agent today for a review of your current policy and learn about your healthcare options:

Brianna Kornoelje, Health Benefits Advisor, Direct Line: 616.777.3012

Carlos Garcia, Health Benefits AdvisorHabla español, Direct Line: 616-777-3017

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