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Preventing Wildfires

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Preventing Wildfires and Staying Safe from the Risk

According to the National Interagency Fire Center, 63,546 human-caused wildfires burned nearly 5 million acres in 2017. To put this into perspective, consider the size of New York City. At 92,781 acres, New York City could have burned 54 times over with that amount of acreage!

That’s 5 million acres that didn’t have to burn if the ‘you’ part of the wildfire equation had followed proper burning protocol.

Warm weather increases the wildfire threat to many parts of the country. That warmth and dryness entice many people to clean up their yards and burn the debris. If not properly controlled, these fires will grow to become uncontrollable. Fortunately, most human-caused fires are preventable when proper precautions are taken. Here are just a few things you can do to avoid starting a wildfire:

Staying Safe from the Risk

  • Follow the law. The community you live in may have burning regulations, like requiring permits, restrictions on the times and places for open burning, and restrictions on the items that can be burned. Check with your local officials before burning anything.
  • Watch the weather. Don’t attempt to burn on windy days or during periods of drought. Check with your local fire official to make sure the weather conditions are safe for burning.
  • Choose the right site. The burn site should be surrounded by gravel or dirt for at least ten feet in all directions and kept wet to prevent the fire from spreading.
  • Never leave a fire unattended. Sparks could blow into leaves or grass and spread quickly.
  • Keep water nearby. Keep a garden hose or bucket of water close to help control the fire in an emergency.
  • Extinguish the fire properly. Use water to extinguish the fire completely by dousing the site and stirring until everything is drowned and not emitting any heat whatsoever. Any remaining coals should also be scooped up with a shovel and dunked into cold water. When you are done, everything in the fire pit should be cold to the touch.
  • Consider alternatives to burning. Yard waste can be made into mulch or composted, while newspapers and many other items can be recycled.

Every year, many families lose their homes and possessions to wildfires caused by humans. Don’t be a part of the statistics. Show your commitment to wildfire prevention, because your safety is number one to us!

To help educate your children on preventing wildfires, check out Smokey the Bear, he’s a pretty smart fellow.

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9 Steps to Winterizing Your Collector Vehicle

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Shield Insurance Agency Blog | Winterizing Your Collector Vehicle | Start A Quote Today!

Winterizing Your Collector Vehicle?

In most of the country, cold weather is here to stay, so it’s likely time to prepare your ride for hibernation. And because collector cars don’t live the same life as a vehicle that’s driven every day, it’s important to follow a winterization process thoroughly, to ensure your car survives the cold months.

9 steps to Winterizing Your Collector Vehicle

  1. Fuel stabilizer is the engine’s best friend. As fuel sits, it degrades and coats the inside of the tank and engine parts. Stabilizer in the tank prevents that. Run the engine a little to get the treatment into the carburetor or injectors.
  2. Top off the fuel. This prevents condensation build-up in the tank.
  3. Top off the oil. Make sure the oil level is full. Once spring comes around, you will want to start the car, warm the engine up to operating temperature to burn out the moisture, and then change the oil so you are ready for show season.
  4. Test and top off anti-freeze. Testing the antifreeze is extremely important to preventing freeze damage to the inside of the engine block. Antifreeze testers are available at most auto parts stores.
  5. Clean the car before storage. Cleaning and waxing the exterior before putting a breathable car cover on, will help maintain the quality of the paint, and prevent moisture, that can cause corrosion and mildew.
  6. Tires. Inflate tires properly, and treat them with a good tire gel, both inside and outside walls.  You can also put the car on jack stands to get the weight off of the tires.  This will help prevent flat spots.
  7. Reduce moisture.The interior and exterior of the car need to be protected from moisture.   A damp garage will corrode all bare metals, damage paint, and cause mildew and mold in the interior. A small fan or a shop light with a candescent light bulb under the car will help eliminate moisture. For the interior, DampRid or some sort of moisture absorbing material will keep things clean and dry.
  8. Battery. Use a battery tender that monitors the battery and charges it when needed.
  9. Insurance. Last but not least, check your car’s insurance policy or talk with your insurance agent. Even if you’re storing your ride indoors, it’s still at risk of theft, vandalism, or physical damage.

For informational purposes only and may not be applicable to all situations.

Coverage is subject to policy terms, conditions, limitations, exclusions, underwriting review, and approval, and may not be available for all risks or in all states. Rates and discounts vary, are determined by many factors, and are subject to change. Policies are written by one of the licensed insurers of American Modern Insurance Group, Inc., including American Modern Home Insurance Company d/b/a in CA American Modern Insurance Company (Lic. No 2222-8).

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Who Can I Add to My Auto Insurance Policy?

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Can I add my parents to my auto insurance policy even if they are aged?

Can I keep the kids on my auto insurance even tho they have moved out?

The short answer is NO. 

Who pays the MEDICAL BILLS? Covered by PIP BeforeCovered by PIP Now
Named InsuredYESYES
Spouse of named insuredYESYES
Household relatives of named insuredYESYES
Household drivers who are not related to Named InsuredYESNO
Non-Household relatives of named insured listed as driversYESNO
Other passengers or pedestriansNONO

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What to Know About Buying a Vacant Home

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

Professional Inspection

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

Critters

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

Plumbing

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

Appliances

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

Molds

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

Unanticipated Repairs

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

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

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Grilling Safety Tips for Your Cookout

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Grilling Safety Tips

If you are planning a cookout at your house, it’s important to be extremely cautious and alert at all times! According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), July is the peak month for grill fires. To avoid fires or unwanted burns, review the tips below to have a happy and safe holiday.

  • If you are using a propane grill, make sure the lid is open before lighting it. If you’re using a charcoal grill, remember to use the correct starter fluid.
  • Place the grill at least 10 feet away from your home, deck railings and overhanging branches.
  • If you are using a charcoal grill and the fire is low, revive it with some kindling and more charcoal. Avoid using liquid fuel as this can cause a flash fire.
  • Keep children and pets away from the grill area. If that is unavoidable, make sure they are at least 3 feet from the grill.
  • Never leave your grill unattended.
  • Keep your grill away from windy areas.
  • If you smell gas while grilling, step away from grill immediately and call your fire department.
  • When you’re done grilling, scrape off any grease or fat buildup that’s left over and in the trays below the grill. If you’re using a charcoal grill, make sure the coals are completely cool before disposing in a metal container.

Once you clean off your grill, it will be good as new and ready for your next cookout. From all of us at Foremost: Have fun and be safe!

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Do You Know Your Flood Risk?

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Are you in a flood risk zone?

According to the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), everyone lives in a flood risk zone. Even those who don’t live near water are at risk because anywhere it rains, it can flood. Heavy rains, clogged or insufficient drainage systems, nearby construction projects, broken water mains, and inadequate levees and dams can cause flooding that puts your home and belongings at risk.

Your home is one of your greatest investments. It’s important to prepare ahead should a disaster occur. Here are three simple steps to help make sure you’re ready in the event of a flood risk.

  • Create a “flood file” and keep it in an accessible waterproof and fireproof container. It should contain a personal property inventory of your home, a copy of your insurance information, copies of any critical personal documents (e.g. social security cards, titles and deeds), and a CD backup of computer documents and digital photos.
  • Prepare your home by making sure your sump pump works and has a battery backup, your gutters and downspouts are clear, your electronics and appliances are elevated, and any valuables and keepsakes are moved to a higher level.
  • Develop an emergency plan that includes evacuation routes from home, work and school. Make sure that plan includes an out-of-town contact list that all family members can call in case you get separated. Also, create an emergency kit with extra drinking water, non-perishable food, first-aid materials, blankets, a battery-powered radio, a flashlight, and extra batteries that can be grabbed easily if you need to evacuate.

It’s important to know that most home policies don’t cover flooding and just a few inches of water damage can cost thousands. To find out if you live in an area that is at risk for flooding, type in your address in the FEMA Flood Map Service Center and use this interactive tool to learn more.

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What To Do After A Flood

Posted on by Shield Insurance Agency

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

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

Tips for staying safe upon return:

  • Check for structural damage and use extreme caution. One way to do this is to check if the walls are vertical and straight.
  • Turn off the electricity in your home at the main breaker or fuse box. Make sure you stand in a dry spot to do this! If you can’t stand in a dry spot, call an electrician who will take care of the risk.
  • Turn off the gas. If you smell something unusual, leave immediately and call your gas company from another location.
  • Check your sewage system. Repair damaged septic tanks, cesspools, pits, and leaching systems as soon as possible. These are serious health hazards.
  • Take precautions when inspecting your home. Your home may have sagging ceilings and areas that are still flooded. Also beware of critters like snakes, spiders, and rodents that may have taken refuge in your home!

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

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

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

Tips for inspections:

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

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

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

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Preparing For Severe Weather

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Are you ready for Severe Weather?

Try and put yourself in the shoes of those who have gone through a natural disaster, and imagine this: Before a severe weather event hits – you hear the warnings from state officials and your local news, but might not take them too seriously. They’re urging the public to stock up on food and supplies, fill up on gas – or – worst-case scenario, they tell you to evacuate the area immediately. As the storm system nears, you realize this is serious. But, by the time you make it to the grocery store for important supplies and water– everything is sold out. It’s at that moment you might be asking yourself, “How did I let this happen?”

Severe weather can strike anywhere in the U.S., and if a disaster hits in your area, you may not have access to food, water, or electricity for days. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly half of adults in the U.S. do not have the resources or plans in place for an emergency – that’s a big number! Always remember – there’s no such thing as being “too prepared,” and it’s better to start preparing now than later when the store shelves are empty!

Below are some important items to include in an emergency preparedness kit:

  • Food and water. A three-day supply of non-perishable goods, and have one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days. (Also have a manual can opener on hand!)
  • Prescription medicines. Have at least a three-day supply on hand.
  • Personal care items. Items like soap, toothbrush, toothpaste and contact lenses.
  • First aid kit. Your local store should have them in stock. They cost anywhere from $25 to $35.
  • Electronics. Be sure to have battery-powered or solar flashlight, a cell phone with a portable charger and have extra batteries on hand.
  • Important papers. Copies of drivers’ licenses, special medical information, social security cards, etc. Keep them in a waterproof, air tight bag so water doesn’t seep through.
  • Cash. With no power, stores may not be able to take credit cards and ATMs may be out of cash so keep a reasonable amount of cash available so you have it if needed.
  • Basic hand tools. A wrench or pliers to turn off utilities.
  • Pet food and extra water for your pet. Your furry friends also need a three-day supply of food and water!

Depending on the size of your family, you may need additional supplies not included in the list, such as baby formula or games for the kids.

If you do end up losing power, it’s important to think about ways you can keep your food cold temporarily if you don’t have a cooler on hand. One option is your washing machine – just fill it with ice and voila! You won’t have to worry when the ice starts melting since it can drain water. Plus – it has a lid! A second option is to fill your bathtub with ice.

Keeping these items on hand is crucial and could potentially save a life. Place your emergency kit in a designated spot all family members are familiar with and have it ready in case you need to leave your home quickly. From everyone here at Foremost – stay safe and stay prepared!

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Prepare for A Summer Outdoors

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Shield Insurance Blog | Summer Outdoors | Start a Quote Today!

Ready for a great summer outdoors?

The summer is just starting to roll, so what better time to head out with family or friends for a weekend in the great outdoors! Camping at a local campground or state park could be just what you need before school is back in session. The birds chirping, the bugs buzzing and the sun beating down on your tent will remind you to be prepared.

It’s the knowledge that we will share with you here that separates the amateurs from the seasoned campers. You want to be a seasoned camper, don’t you? The prepared one that everyone goes to if they need duct tape, dental floss, or any other random item. We will help you become that go-to guy or gal with this simple checklist and some tips from Foremost.com.

Prepared Camper checklist:

  • Tent, tarp and sleeping bags (I’m sure you already knew that)
  • Extra blankets and towels
  • Waterproof matches, pots, pans and utensils
  • A utility knife and rope
  • Hammer
  • Extra stakes
  • Extra chairs
  • Emergency medical kit
  • Plenty of water (for drinking, cooking and cleaning)
  • Cooler packed full of delicious food, snacks and beverages
  • Dish soap and hand sanitizer
  • Duct tape (you can use this stuff for anything)
  • Dental floss (always handy after a dinner of fresh grilled chicken or steak)
  • Ziploc bags (so useful!)
  • Sunscreen/chap stick with SPF
  • Flashlight
  • Warm hat (80% of heat loss occurs through your head. You never know when you are going to get a chilly night)
  • Layers of clothes (no matter what time of year, it’s the easiest and most effective way to control your body temperature)
  • Playing cards/games (just for fun)

Foremost wants you to safely experience all the adventure you can.

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Safety Tips For Bicyclists

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Cycling has grown significantly in popularity over the past decade. Towns across the country are adding bike lanes to their roads to become more bike-friendly, and more and more people are ditching their cars and using a bike as their primary form of transportation. According to USA Today, larger cities like Portland, Ore., and Minneapolis have more than doubled their rate of bike commuters since 2014 – and as a cyclist, I can’t help but get excited.

Now, with bike riding growing in popularity across the U.S. – it may be a good idea to brush up on some traffic guidelines to avoid any accidents.

When you purchase a bike, you’re likely not required to take a safety class before you ride it. And, for drivers, the instructors touched on bike safety as part of Drivers Ed, but who remembers details from a course they took in their teens?

My point is, adults aren’t given much guidance when it comes to cyclists and cars coexisting on the roads. And as a bicyclist and a driver, I did some research because honestly, I needed a refresher myself.

Safety tips for DRIVERS:

  • Try to be 3 feet or more away from a bike.
  • Try to pass on the left when possible.
  • Blind spots are always lurking, make sure to watch for bikes.
  • Only pass a bicyclist when your passing lane is free and clear.
  • Look in your mirror for cyclists when you’re parking.
  • Always think of cyclists as equals – remember, they have rights on the road too!

Safety tips for BICYCLISTS:

  • Make sure to ride with the flow of traffic.
  • Traffic signs and signals aren’t just for cars. Stop on red to be safe.
  • Use marked bike paths or lanes if they’re available.
  • Use your arm to make turn signals and take advantage of turn lanes so cars are aware of what you’re doing.
  • Consider using a mirror to monitor the cars behind you.
  • If you’re riding at night or in a storm, make sure to use some sort of flashers.
  • Watch for parked cars.
  • And most importantly – stay alert at all times.

If you’re unsure about your city’s or state’s traffic laws, it doesn’t hurt to look them up beforehand. No matter what you drive, be sure to enjoy the roads out there safely!

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