Shield Insurance’s Roadmap to RV Insurance in Michigan: What You Need to Know

Shield Insurance’s Roadmap to RV Insurance in Michigan: What You Need to Know

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Shield Insurance Agency Blog | RV Insurance | Start A Quote Today!

At Shield Insurance Agency, we effectively educate Michigan residents about RV insurance policies. These policies may seem daunting, but decoding them isn’t as hard as it might appear. This guide will help simplify RV insurance so you can make the best possible decision.

RV Insurance: Differentiating Between Part-Time and Full-Time

One common pitfall among RV owners is the failure to distinguish between a full-time and a part-time RV usage policy. Getting this right will ensure your policy adequately caters to your specific needs.

Special Considerations for Self-Built RVs

If you’ve constructed your own RV, be aware that it poses different issues for insurance companies. Self-built vehicles typically have additional insurance concerns and may not be as straightforward to insure as standard RVs. It’s important to bear this in mind when deliberating over potential modifications to your RV.

Importance of RV Insurance Emergency Expense Coverage

Emergency expenses are a vital consideration for any RV policy. Emergency coverage should be top of mind whether you use your RV full-time or part-time and whatever belongings you need to insure. This type of coverage will offer you the security of being prepared for any unexpected expenses that may come up.

At Shield Insurance Agency, we are eager to answer all your questions about RV insurance policies. Michigan RV owners are invited to call or visit us anytime to learn more. We’re here to assist with your RV insurance needs, enabling you to hit the road confidently.

Give us a call or stop by our home office at 3214 Chicago Dr, Hudsonville, MI 49426 Our phone is 616-896-4600 or you can fax your current policy to us at 616-896-4601. And of course, we can be reached via email at ContactUs@shieldagency.com

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Young Drivers and worried about insurance costs? Here's what you need to know! 🚘

Young Drivers and worried about insurance costs? Here’s what you need to know!

Posted on by Shield Insurance Agency

Shield Insurance Agency Blog | Young Drivers | Auto Insurance | Start A Quote!

Young drivers have heard horror stories about the exorbitant insurance premiums that young people have to pay. It’s a common belief that insurance costs for young individuals are sky-high, making it difficult for them to afford coverage. But is this really true? In this blog post, we will explore the cost of insurance for young people and debunk the myth of high premiums. We will also provide you with some tips on how to find affordable insurance options tailored to your needs.

The Cost of Insurance for Young Drivers: Separating Fact from Fiction

When it comes to insurance costs for young people, there are many misconceptions that need to be addressed. While it’s true that young drivers are statistically more likely to be involved in accidents, insurance companies take various factors into account when determining premiums. These factors include driving record, type of vehicle, location, and even credit score. Therefore, it’s not fair to assume that all young individuals will automatically face high insurance rates.

Finding Affordable Insurance Options for Young Drivers

Contrary to popular belief, there are several ways for young adults to find affordable insurance options. One of the most effective ways is to shop around and compare quotes from different insurance companies. Shield Insurance Agency, for example, represents over 45 insurance companies, giving you a wide range of options to choose from. By contacting Shield Insurance Agency at (616) 896-4600 or visiting their website, you can get a free quote tailored to your specific needs.

Tips for Reducing Insurance Expenses for Young Drivers

While insurance rates for young policyholders may be higher compared to older individuals, there are steps you can take to reduce your premiums. Here are some tips for young drivers looking to save on insurance costs:

1. Maintain a clean driving record: Avoid traffic violations and accidents to demonstrate responsible driving behavior. Insurance companies reward safe drivers with lower premiums.

2. Take a defensive driving course: Completing a defensive driving course can not only improve your driving skills but also make you eligible for discounts on your insurance premiums.

3. Opt for a safe and practical vehicle: Insurance rates for young adults can be influenced by the type of vehicle they drive. Choosing a safe and practical car with good safety ratings can help lower your insurance costs.

4. Consider bundling your insurance policies: If you have multiple insurance needs, such as auto and renter’s insurance, bundling them with the same insurance company can often lead to discounts.

Contrary to popular belief, young adults do not necessarily have to pay exorbitant insurance premiums. While insurance rates for young drivers may be higher compared to older individuals, there are ways to find affordable options tailored to your needs. By shopping around, comparing quotes, and taking advantage of discounts, you can reduce your insurance expenses. Remember, Shield Insurance Agency represents over 45 insurance companies and can provide you with a free quote to help you find the best coverage at the best price. Contact Shield Insurance Agency at (616) 896-4600 or visit their website to start the quoting process today. Don’t let the myth of high insurance premiums deter you from getting the coverage you need.

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This Elementary School Is Fundraising With A Twist - SERVING Instead Of Selling

This Elementary School Is Fundraising With A Twist – SERVING Instead Of Selling

Posted on by Shield Insurance Agency

SunnySkyz.com | March 27, 2024 | Serving Instead of Selling | Visit the Shield Blog

Today’s good news story comes from Dover, Ohio.

In a world often dominated by sales pitches and fundraising campaigns, one elementary school in Ohio is rewriting the script by spreading kindness instead of selling goods. Dover Elementary’s Parent Teacher Group (PTG) has initiated a heartwarming fundraising campaign where acts of kindness take center stage.

Led by PTG President Ericka Koffa, the school community has embraced the concept of “serving instead of selling.” Instead of the typical cookie dough or gift wrap sales, students are encouraged to engage in planned and spontaneous acts of kindness both within the school grounds and beyond.

Serving Instead of Selling

Koffa elaborated on the initiative, emphasizing the importance of giving back to the community. “We’re serving instead of selling. Getting our kids out into the community [and] giving back,” she stated. “The concept is they’re paying the community’s generosity forward by completing acts of kindness at home, at school, and in the community.”

Fifth-grader Aaliyah Garner shared her understanding of kindness, highlighting the various ways students contribute to the initiative. “We help around the school by doing random acts of kindness like giving out morning greetings and cards sometimes. Being kind to everybody in the school and never being rude to anyone, and helping people when they need it.”

The acts of kindness orchestrated by Dover Elementary students encompass a wide range of gestures, from writing letters to those in need to distributing kindness cards and lending a hand to the elderly. With QR codes facilitating donations, the impact of these acts extends far beyond the school’s walls.

“I’ve just seen so many of our kids light up when people are calling out their kindness and noticing them for being kind,” remarked Koffa. “We feel like we’re on the verge of changing some lives.”

Click here for the full story…

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Unveiling the Mystery Behind Insurance Audits: What You Need to Know

Unveiling the Mystery Behind Insurance Audits: What You Need to Know

Posted on by Shield Insurance Agency

Shield Insurance Blog | Insurance Audits | Business Insurance | Contact Shield

Understanding the Annual Insurance Audits Process

As a business owner, you may wonder why your insurance company conducts an annual audit of your business. The annual audit is a standard procedure that insurance companies use to assess the risk associated with insuring your business. It involves a thorough review of your business operations, financial records, and compliance with insurance policies. Understanding the audit process can help you prepare and ensure a smooth and successful audit.

The Importance of Business Compliance with Insurance Audits

One of the main reasons insurance companies conduct annual audits is to ensure that your business is in compliance with the terms and conditions of your insurance policy. Compliance with insurance policies is crucial because it helps protect both you and the insurance company. By conducting an audit, the insurance company can verify that you are following the necessary safety protocols, maintaining proper documentation, and adhering to any other requirements outlined in your policy.

Assessing Risk and Insurance Coverage

Another key aspect of the annual audit is to assess the risk associated with insuring your business. Insurance companies need to evaluate the potential risks your business faces to determine the appropriate coverage and premium rates. During the audit, the insurance company will review your business operations, risk management strategies, and any changes that may have occurred since the last audit. This assessment helps the insurance company ensure that you have adequate coverage and that the premium rates accurately reflect the level of risk.

The Financial Review

A significant part of the annual audit is the financial review. The insurance company will examine your financial records to assess your business’s financial stability and determine the appropriate coverage and premium rates. They will review your income statements, balance sheets, tax returns, and any other relevant financial documents. This review helps the insurance company understand your business’s financial health and make informed decisions regarding your insurance coverage.

The Benefits of Risk Assessment and Management

The annual audit provides an opportunity for both you and the insurance company to assess and manage the risks associated with your business. By conducting a thorough risk assessment, the insurance company can identify potential hazards, vulnerabilities, and areas for improvement. This assessment allows them to offer valuable risk management advice and recommendations to help you mitigate risks and prevent potential losses. By implementing these risk management strategies, you can enhance the safety and security of your business, ultimately reducing the likelihood of insurance claims.

In conclusion, the annual audit conducted by your insurance company is a necessary process to assess the risk associated with insuring your business. It helps ensure that you are in compliance with your insurance policy, assesses your business operations and financial stability, and provides valuable risk assessment and management advice. By understanding the audit process and its importance, you can better prepare for the annual audit and maintain a successful relationship with your insurance company.

Shield Insurance Agency represents over 45 insurance companies and can provide you with the best coverage options tailored to your business 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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Invaders from underground are coming in cicada-geddon.

Invaders from underground are coming in cicada-geddon.

Posted on by Shield Insurance Agency

WTOP News | Cicada | Home Insurance | Visit the Shield Insurance Quoting portal

The largest geographic brood in the nation — called Brood XIX and coming out every 13 years — is about to march through the Southeast, having already created countless boreholes in the red Georgia clay. It’s a sure sign of the coming cicada occupation. They emerge when the ground warms to 64 degrees (17.8 degrees Celsius), which is happening earlier than it used to because of climate change, entomologists said. The bugs are brown at first but darken as they mature.

Soon after the insects appear in large numbers in Georgia and the rest of the Southeast, cicada cousins that come out every 17 years will inundate Illinois. They are Brood XIII.

“You’ve got one very widely distributed brood in Brood XIX, but you have a very dense historically abundant brood in the Midwest, your Brood XIII,” said University of Maryland entomologist Mike Raupp.

“And when you put those two together… you would have more than anywhere else any other time,” University of Maryland entomologist Paula Shrewsbury said.

Cicada found in the Eastern US

These hideaway cicadas are found only in the eastern United States and a few tiny other places. There are 15 different broods that come out every few years, on 17- and 13-year cycles. These two broods may actually overlap — but probably not interbreed — in a small area near central Illinois, entomologists said.

Trillions of evolution’s bizarro wonders, red-eyed periodical cicadas that have pumps in their heads and jet-like muscles in their rears, are about to emerge in numbers not seen in decades and possibly centuries.

Crawling out from underground every 13 or 17 years, with a collective song as loud as jet engines, the periodical cicadas are nature’s kings of the calendar.

These black bugs with bulging eyes differ from their greener-tinged cousins that come out annually. They stay buried year after year, until they surface and take over a landscape, covering houses with shed exoskeletons and making the ground crunchy.

Cicada Geddon begins in the Spring

This spring, an unusual double dose is about to invade a couple parts of the United States in what University of Connecticut cicada expert John Cooley called “cicada-geddon.” The last time these two broods came out together in 1803 Thomas Jefferson, who wrote about cicadas in his Garden Book but mistakenly called them locusts, was president.

“Periodic cicadas don’t do subtle,” Cooley said.

If you’re fascinated by the upcoming solar eclipse, thy are weirder and bigger, said Georgia Tech biophysicist Saad Bhamla.

“We’ve got trillions of these amazing living organisms come out of the Earth, climb up on trees and it’s just a unique experience, a sight to behold,” Bhamla said. “It’s like an entire alien species living underneath our feet and then some prime number years they come out to say hello.”

Cicada or Voracious?

At times mistaken for voracious and unrelated locusts, periodical cicadas are more annoying rather than causing biblical economic damage. They can hurt young trees and some fruit crops, but it’s not widespread and can be prevented.

The largest geographic brood in the nation — called Brood XIX and coming out every 13 years — is about to march through the Southeast, having already created countless boreholes in the red Georgia clay. It’s a sure sign of the coming cicada occupation. They emerge when the ground warms to 64 degrees (17.8 degrees Celsius), which is happening earlier than it used to because of climate change, entomologists said. The bugs are brown at first but darken as they mature.

Soon after the insects appear in large numbers in Georgia and the rest of the Southeast, cicada cousins that come out every 17 years will inundate Illinois. They are Brood XIII.

“You’ve got one very widely distributed brood in Brood XIX, but you have a very dense historically abundant brood in the Midwest, your Brood XIII,” said University of Maryland entomologist Mike Raupp.

“And when you put those two together… you would have more than anywhere else any other time,” University of Maryland entomologist Paula Shrewsbury said.

These hideaway cicadas are found only in the eastern United States and a few tiny other places. There are 15 different broods that come out every few years, on 17- and 13-year cycles. These two broods may actually overlap — but probably not interbreed — in a small area near central Illinois, entomologists said.

Click here for the full story…

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Insurance Policies Decoded: Unraveling the Magic of Additional Interests

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Shield Insurance Agency Blog | Additional Interests | Shield Insurance Agency

Insurance policies are designed to protect us from unexpected events and provide financial security in times of need. However, there are situations where a standard insurance policy may not provide adequate coverage. This is where an additional interest on your insurance policy comes into play. In this blog post, we will explore what an additional interest is, when you may need it, and how it can benefit you.

What is additional interests?

An additional interest, also known as an additional insured or a loss payee, is a person or entity that is not the policyholder but has an insurable interest in the property or person covered by the insurance policy. By adding an additional interest to your policy, you are extending coverage to someone else or ensuring that a specific party is protected in the event of a claim.

When do you need additional interests?

There are several situations where adding an additional interest to your insurance policy is necessary. Let’s take a look at some common scenarios:

1. Renting out your property: If you own a rental property, it is essential to add your tenant as an additional interest on your insurance policy. This ensures that both you and your tenant are protected in case of any damages or liability claims that may arise.

2. Borrowing money: When you borrow money to purchase a vehicle or a home, the lender may require you to add them as an additional interest on your insurance policy. This protects their financial interest in the property and ensures that they will be compensated in the event of a loss.

3. Leasing equipment: If you lease equipment for your business, the leasing company may require you to add them as an additional interest on your insurance policy. This protects their investment in the equipment and ensures that they will be compensated if any damage or loss occurs.

4. Co-owning property: If you co-own a property with someone else, such as a business partner or a family member, it is advisable to add them as an additional interest on your insurance policy. This ensures that both parties are protected and can file a claim if necessary.

5. Hiring contractors: When hiring contractors to work on your property, it is crucial to add them as an additional interest on your insurance policy. This protects both you and the contractor in case of any accidents or damages that may occur during the project.

Benefits of adding interest to an insurance policy

Adding additional interests to your insurance policy offers several benefits:

1. Enhanced protection: By extending coverage to additional parties, you are ensuring that everyone involved is adequately protected in case of a claim. This can provide peace of mind and financial security for all parties.

2. Compliance with contractual obligations: In many cases, adding additional interests is a requirement outlined in a contract or agreement. By complying with these obligations, you can avoid any legal or financial consequences that may arise from non-compliance.

3. Streamlined claims process: When an additional interest is added to your policy, they have the right to file a claim on your behalf. This can help expedite the claims process and ensure that everyone involved receives the necessary compensation in a timely manner.

4. Cost-effective solution: Adding an additional interest to your policy is often more cost-effective than purchasing a separate insurance policy for each party involved. This can help save money while still providing the necessary coverage.

In certain situations, a standard insurance policy may not provide adequate coverage for all parties involved. Adding interest to your policy can help bridge this gap and ensure that everyone’s interests are protected. Whether you are renting out a property, borrowing money, or co-owning property, it is essential to consider adding an additional interest to your insurance policy.

Shield Insurance Agency represents over 45 insurance companies, offering a wide range of coverage options to meet your specific 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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Insider Knowledge: The Crucial Role of Being the First Named Insured on Your Insurance Policy!

Insider Knowledge: The Crucial Role of Being the First Named Insured on Your Insurance Policy!

Posted on by Shield Insurance Agency

Shield Insurance Agency Blog | First Named Insured | Shield Insurance Agency

In the world of insurance, being the first named insured on a policy holds significant importance. This designation comes with a range of benefits and responsibilities that can greatly impact your coverage and claims process. Understanding the role of the first named insured is crucial for anyone seeking insurance protection. In this blog post, we will delve into the reasons why being the primary policyholder matters and how it affects your overall insurance experience.

Understanding the Significance of Being the First Named Insured

Being the first named insured means that you are the primary policyholder and hold the highest level of responsibility in an insurance contract. This designation is typically given to the person who purchases the policy or has the most significant insurable interest in the insured property or individual. The first named insured is the one who initiates the policy and is legally bound to fulfill its obligations.

As the first named insured, you have the authority to make changes to the policy, such as adding or removing additional insureds, adjusting coverage limits, or making modifications to the policy terms. This level of control ensures that you have the power to tailor the policy to your specific needs.

The Benefits and Responsibilities of Being the Primary Policyholder

Being the first named insured comes with several benefits. Firstly, you have the right to receive policy documents, including renewal notices, policy endorsements, and claim-related correspondence. This ensures that you are always up to date with any changes or updates to your coverage.

Secondly, as the primary policyholder, you have the authority to file claims and receive claim payments directly. This eliminates the need for any intermediaries and allows for a smoother and more efficient claims process.

Additionally, being the first named insured grants you the ability to designate additional insureds. This is particularly important for businesses or individuals who want to extend coverage to others, such as employees or family members. By having control over who is added as an additional insured, you can ensure that the policy adequately protects those who matter most to you.

However, with great benefits come great responsibilities. As the first named insured, you are responsible for paying the premiums on time to maintain coverage. Failure to do so may result in a lapse in coverage, leaving you vulnerable to financial risks.

How Being the First Named Insured Affects Coverage and Claims

Being the first named insured has a direct impact on the coverage and claims process. When you are the primary policyholder, the policy is tailored to your specific needs and circumstances. This means that the coverage limits, deductibles, and policy terms are all based on your requirements.

Furthermore, in the event of a claim, being the first named insured ensures that you are the primary point of contact for the insurance company. This allows for a more streamlined and efficient claims process, as you have direct communication with the insurer. You can provide all the necessary information and documentation required to process the claim promptly.

Moreover, being the first named insured gives you the authority to make decisions regarding the settlement of a claim. This includes negotiating with the insurance company, hiring legal representation if necessary, and ultimately deciding whether to accept or reject a settlement offer.

Being the first named insured on an insurance policy is of utmost importance. It grants you numerous benefits, such as control over policy modifications, direct communication with the insurer, and the ability to designate additional insureds. However, it also comes with responsibilities, including paying premiums on time to maintain coverage. Understanding the significance of being the primary policyholder ensures that you make informed decisions regarding your insurance protection. So, whether you are purchasing a new policy or reviewing an existing one, remember the importance of being the first named insured and the impact it has on your coverage and claims process.

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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Amber Venaglia

Amber Venaglia, Liberty University Online Academy Student, Excels and Inspire as a Performer

Posted on by Shield Insurance Agency

Poplin Amazing Kids.com | Amber Venaglia | | Shield Insurance Blog | Start An Insurance Quote Here

Amber Venaglia
2023 Amazing Kids – Portland
Age: 10
School: Liberty University Online Academy
Hometown: Portland, Or
WHY SHE IS AMAZING: Through Amber’s determination and hard work, she excels as a performer and uses her skills to inspire other young people.		PROUDLY SPONSORED BY:

OregonTech-Text

Amber Venaglia first picked up a mic when she was just two years old.

Before she could even talk, she went on stage after a church service and started humming to a piano tune in front of hundreds of people.

That’s when her parents knew she had a gift.

Amber Venaglia is only 10 years old

Now 10 years old, Venaglia ’s versatility is seen through her singing, dancing, acting, and her latest hobby — playing the piano. She said playing the piano is now her favorite because she likes learning new songs and has fast fingers.

She has danced with The Portland Ballet, did theater with Journey Theater Arts, and was awarded the title of World Ambassadress of Aspire Magazine. Her mom says Venaglia quickly excelled at creating music.

“When we found out she could sing, we only trained her for two months, and we were surprised she won the World Championships of Performing Arts — and when she was seven, she won Star of the Year in Hollywood,” she said.

Her dad, Edward, also taught her how to code, and now Venaglia, whose favorite subject is math, is a certified game developer.

Amber Venaglia has no fear

She sang the National Anthem for an NBA Lakers game earlier this year, and said that despite the large venue, she doesn’t get nervous when she goes up and performs. Instead, she is focused on what she’s practiced and feels proud to encourage other kids to do the same. Her mom is especially impressed by her daughter’s courage and focus.

“Most kids have stage fright. She doesn’t have that. She loves performing,” she said.

Venaglia is also proud of her Filipino heritage and is active in the local Filipino community’s youth group. She regularly sings at events and helps them raise funds through her performances. But, according to her parents, one of her most special traits is her determination to stick to something and improve.

“Every time she practices, she gets better and better and better, and she loves what she’s doing,” they said.

Although her talents impress many people, her parents say that at the end of the day, she is still a kid.

She’ll often be backstage hanging out and making friends with other kids, and then she’ll do a breathtaking performance and come right back to playing. Her dad says he makes sure to show how proud he is of her accomplishments.

“When she’s out doing her thing, it’s amazing just to hear her and give her a big hug and congratulate her,” Edward said.

Ultimately, Venaglia wants to inspire other young performers and show them what is possible.

“I’d like to reach out to other kids … and help kids reach their dreams and help be inspiring for them,” Venaglia told the Tribune.

Click here to learn more about Amber Venaglia

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The Ultimate Guide to Group Benefits: Pros, Cons, and Price Breakdown!💰

The Ultimate Guide to Group Benefits: Pros, Cons, and Price Breakdown!

Posted on by Shield Insurance Agency

Shield Insurance Blog | Group Benefits | Business Insurance | Contact Us

Offering a comprehensive group benefits program is a crucial aspect of attracting and retaining top talent in today’s competitive job market. However, it is essential to weigh the pros and cons and understand the costs associated with such programs. In this blog post, we will delve into the various aspects of group benefits, including compensation packages, coverage options, costs, and the advantages and disadvantages they bring to both employers and employees.

Understanding Compensation Packages and Group Benefits

Compensation packages play a significant role in attracting and retaining employees. Benefits coverage is an integral part of these packages, offering employees a sense of security and peace of mind. Group benefits typically include health insurance, dental and vision coverage, life insurance, disability insurance, and retirement plans. By providing these benefits, employers can enhance employee satisfaction and loyalty, leading to increased productivity and reduced turnover rates.

The Cost of Offering Group Compensation

While group benefits are undoubtedly valuable, they come at a cost. Employers must carefully consider the expenses associated with offering these benefits. The cost of offering benefits depends on various factors, including the size of the workforce, the level of coverage, and the insurance provider. It is crucial to strike a balance between providing comprehensive coverage and managing costs effectively. Consulting with an experienced insurance agency, such as Shield Insurance Agency, can help employers navigate the complexities of group plans and find the best options for their budget.

Pros and Cons of Group Benefits

Like any other workplace benefit, benefits have their advantages and disadvantages. On the positive side, group benefits can attract top talent, improve employee morale, and increase job satisfaction. They also provide a safety net for employees in times of illness or injury. However, group benefits can be costly for employers, especially for small businesses. Additionally, managing and administering these benefits can be time-consuming and complex. Employers must carefully evaluate their specific needs and weigh the pros and cons before implementing a group benefits program.

Choosing the Right Group Program

Selecting the right group compensation program requires careful consideration. Shield Insurance Agency, representing over 45 insurance companies, can assist employers in finding the most suitable options for their workforce. By contacting Shield Insurance Agency at (616) 896-4600 or visiting their website, employers can receive a free quote and personalized guidance in choosing the right group compensation. Their experienced agents will ensure that employers find the best coverage at competitive rates, tailored to their specific needs.

Offering a group compensation program can be a valuable investment for employers, providing employees with essential coverage and enhancing job satisfaction. However, it is crucial to understand the costs, coverage options, and pros and cons associated with these programs. By partnering with an experienced insurance agency like Shield Insurance Agency, employers can navigate the complexities of group compensation and find the most suitable options for their workforce. Contact Shield Insurance Agency today for a free quote and start providing your employees with the benefits they deserve.

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A Tornado Can Strike in Seconds. Are You Ready?

A Tornado Can Strike in Seconds. Are You Ready?

Posted on by Shield Insurance Agency

While we can’t prevent tornadoes, we can help you craft a safety plan and prepare.
And know that if a tornado has damaged your property and you need to file a claim,
Shield Insurance Agency is here to help you online or by phone (616-896-4601).

Shield Insurance Blog | Tornado | Home Insurance | Start A Quote Today!

Tornado season is upon us and could bring more storms in the months ahead. In fact,
the U.S. experiences the most tornadoes of anywhere in the world. Last year alone
1,197 tornadoes tore through the country, costing over $1 billion in property damage.

While we can’t prevent tornadoes, we can help you craft a safety plan and prepare.
And know that if a tornado has damaged your property and you need to file a claim,
Shield Insurance Agency is here to help you online or by phone (616-896-4601).

Before a Tornado

Designate a Shelter

The best shelters are sturdy, windowless spaces with room for you, your family,
and pets.
A basement is ideal, though any low‑level, windowless room works, including
closets, hallways, interior stairwells, or a bathtub if you have a heavy blanket or
mattress as cover.

Create an Emergency Kit

Be sure your kit includes:

  • Food and Water for 72 hours, such as canned soup, granola bars, or
  • shelf‑stable goods, plus a can opener
  • Whistle or horn to attract attention should you become trapped
  • Battery or generator‑powered lights to conserve mobile phone power
  • First aid kit that includes bandages, antiseptic, and essential medicines
  • Battery or crank radio because cell towers may be down
  • Important documents, including copies of your ID, insurance
  • information, Social Security cards, a small amount of cash, and other
  • legal documents, such as wills
  • Extra pet food if needed

Know the signs of a tornado:

  • Dark green or sickly‑looking sky
  • Large hail
  • Low clouds, especially if they’re rotating
  • A roar often compared to a train whistle

What to Do:

  • If you hear or see these signs, or there’s a local tornado warning, shelter with family
  • and pets.
  • If you’re far from that shelter, try to find a sturdy community building, such as a church
  • or office building nearby.
  • If you’re in a vehicle and can’t find shelter, stay inside, and cover your head.

After the Tornado

  • Use your horn or whistle, or another implement to attract help if trapped.
  • Check your structure’s integrity. If you see cracks, rubble, or fallen beams,
    exit until it’s deemed safe to return.
  • You may need shelter. If so, text “Shelter” and your zip code to FEMA (43362).
  • Avoid downed powerlines. Even if they look inactive, wires may still carry a
    live current.
  • Avoid using lighters or flames. Even if you don’t smell gas, there may still be
    a leak.
  • Use generators safely. Vent generators outside. Carbon monoxide poisoning
    comes fast and can be deadly.
  • Monitor the radio.
  • Stay informed and safe by tuning your radio to reliable local news or emergency services.

File your claim from the Shield Insurance Agency website.

Shield Insurance wants to help you get your life back on track as fast as possible. We’ll be there after
a disaster – and anytime you need us. You can reach us 24/7 online or at 616-896-4600.

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