Insurance News

Safety Tips for Summer Thrill Seekers

Tue, 26 Jul 2016 18:00:00 GMT

The family summer vacation is a time-honored tradition, and it often includes a trip to one of our country’s incredible amusement parks.

But, while the rides and other attractions at these parks are typically safe, it pays to be vigilant, particularly if you’re visiting with children. Here are some things to keep in mind that will help make sure your family vacation is full of fun, instead of worry.

Amusement Park Ride Safety

According to the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA), the majority of injuries on rides happen because guests have a pre-existing medical condition or don’t follow posted guidelines. IAAPA recommends that you:

Always obey posted restrictions, including those for age, height, weight and health issues.
Follow all instructions from park staff, as well as recorded announcements.
Make sure children understand appropriate and safe behavior.
Keep hands, arms, legs and feet inside rides at all times, and use the safety equipment that is provided. Don’t ever try to loosen or get free from restraints.
Refrain from pressuring others into going on rides that make them uncomfortable.
Report any unsafe behavior or conditions to a supervisor or manager at the park.

Water Park Guidelines

The potential for danger can increase significantly when you bring water into the equation, so the IAAPA recommends some special precautions for parks with water rides:

Those who cannot swim and weak swimmers should wear a life vest approved by the Coast Guard; children under 4 feet tall should as well.
As with all rides, obey posted restrictions and instructions from lifeguards and other park staff. Signal an employee or lifeguard if you see anyone who appears to be struggling.
Children who need diapers should wear waterproof swim diapers.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control has additional recommendations regarding hygiene:

Anyone suffering from diarrhea should not swim.
Try to avoid getting pool water in your mouth or swallowing it.
Always shower before and after swimming, and wash hands thoroughly after using the restroom or changing diapers.

General Welfare Tips

No matter what kind of park you’re visiting — or even if you’re simply attending a public event — the following tips can help ensure your safety and good time:

Set up an emergency meeting place, and use the buddy system. This can help in case someone gets separated from your group, and make sure children are never alone. Even if kids typically use the restroom by themselves, the unfamiliar area combined with the crowds and chaos may be too much for them to handle.
Memorize phone numbers. Don’t rely on your mobile phone’s contact list. Commit at least one party member’s phone number to memory in case you’re lost without your phone or after your battery’s been drained. Have children do the same.
Beat the heat. Monitor how much time children spend in the sun, bring (and use) sunscreen and drink plenty of fluids throughout the day to stay hydrated. Hats and sunglasses may help further.
Dress for comfort. It’s easy to log several miles while exploring a large amusement park by foot. Comfortable shoes are a must, as is weather-appropriate attire. Bags should be comfortable enough for day-long use and have several straps to help distribute the load.
Watch where you’re going. Amusement parks often are crowded, so always be aware of what’s around you — both for your safety and that of others. Never go into restricted areas, and keep a close eye on your belongings.

Perhaps the most important tip of all is this: Know your limits — and those of the people with you. Are there health conditions you need to consider? Even high blood pressure can impact your ability to safely enjoy a ride. Does someone in your group have a disability? They may face certain restrictions, but there also might be special seats available on specific rides. Ask park staffers for assistance and guidelines.

No matter your situation, a trip to the amusement park can become a cherished family memory, so long as you don’t try to overdo it. Because having fun is what summer is all about!

Reposted with permission from the original author, Safeco Insurance.

Read the full article at www.beinsured.com

4 Ways to Help All Children Have a Great School Year

Fri, 04 Sep 2015 18:43:56 GMT

It's back-to-school time, and, if you have school-age children, your household is likely bustling with activity and filling up with books and backpacks. There are other households and school districts in your community, however, that have limited resources and could use some help gearing up for the school year.

Are you able to provide that help? Besides the satisfaction you'll derive, the example you set for your children could be among the most important lessons they learn this school year.

Here are a few ideas and resources to help you give back to your community as school gets under way:

Donate Backpacks and Supplies
Remember the thrill of stepping off the bus with a pristine new backpack – filled with supplies – at the start of a new school year? You can help other children experience that same feeling by participating in or organizing a backpack donation drive. Check with area school districts, charities or TV and radio stations to locate one, or with your local Volunteers of America or Salvation Army outpost. To conduct your own, enlist members of your HOA, knitting circle, golf club or church group and follow this handy start-to-finish guide from the Hands On Network.

Donate Books
Passionate about reading? Then why not help stimulate young minds by donating books to area families, schools, libraries or community groups in need? You may find an organization near you that collects and distributes book donations. Or, donate to a similar organization, such as First Book in Washington, D.C. or Page Ahead in Washington state, online. To organize your own book drive, contact a school district, library or community group near you and ask what types and levels of reading materials would be most beneficial.

Volunteer
It’s not all about donating things, of course. Volunteering your time to reading and tutoring programs puts you front and center for making a difference in your community. Start by calling local school districts and libraries or contacting community groups that run after-school programs. They'll likely have an existing program you can participate in, or would be thrilled to find a new project for you. Or, look for volunteer opportunities online. Reading Partners recruits volunteers in 10 states to provide one-on-one reading instruction to elementary school students who read below grade level. And, VolunteerMatch brings together volunteers and nonprofits nationwide.

Help in Other Ways
Finally, these programs and websites may help ignite your giving spirit:
- Operation School Bell: This Assistance League program provides books, clothing, backpacks and other necessities to needy schoolchildren in scores of cities nationwide.
- DonorsChoose.org: Public school teachers across the country use this innovative charity to create and post classroom project requests. Donors can give any amount to a project they like. Similarly, AdoptAClassroom.org allows you to donate to registered classrooms nationwide.
- National PTA: Start here to find a local PTA chapter near you, and a handy fundraising marketplace of vendors and services, as well as helpful advice on organizing successful fundraisers.

Of course, back-to-school isn’t the only time that less-fortunate children could benefit from a little support. So, consider donating supplies or volunteering any time during the school year. Just think of the wonderful impact you could make on the promising young minds in your area!

Reposted with permission from the original author, Safeco Insurance.

Read the full article at www.beinsured.com

Keep Cool While Keeping Your Energy Costs Down

Fri, 07 Aug 2015 19:02:35 GMT

Two thirds of households in America have air conditioners, according to the U.S. Department of Energy — and they spend a total of $11 billion each year running them.

Our guess is that most of those households (which may include yours) wouldn’t mind spending a little less to keep their homes cool. Because, as great as it feels to escape the heat of summer, having some extra money in your pocket might feel even better.

Here are five tips to help you beat the heat without having the AC on — and the meter running — all day long:

Ventilate, ventilate, ventilate. The Department of Energy says that ventilation is the least expensive and most energy-efficient way to cool your home. One of the best ways to do this is to open windows to create a cross-wise breeze indoors. It’s best to do this in the mornings or evenings when the outside air is coolest. After all, flooding your home with hot afternoon air isn’t going to appease anyone.
Get those fans going. Ceiling fans can provide enough cooling power for you to raise the thermostat a few degrees without noticing the difference. Smaller ones can help as well, but make sure you turn fans off when you’re not around — they cool people, not rooms. Finally, whole-house fans, which bring in air and exhaust it through the attic, can help cool things down even on the hottest days. They should be installed by a professional, though.
Don’t unwittingly turn the ‘heat’ on. Are you making something in your oven? Cooking something on the stove? You’re also adding heat to your house. Even clothes dryers and dishwashers can create unwanted warmth, so use those appliances in the morning or evening. When it’s time to cook, try grilling outside — or eating more cold foods. They can help lower your internal body temperature.
Remember the little things — they add up. Keep your curtains closed on the sunny side of your home. Turn off lights whenever you can, because they produce heat. And, if it’s warmer outside than inside, keep your windows closed.
Bigger projects can have big benefits, too. Make sure your attic and walls are insulated well, with cracks and openings sealed so warm air doesn’t leak into your home. Check your ducts, too. Air loss through ducts can account for as much as 30 percent of a cooling system’s energy consumption, according to the Department of Energy. And, if you don’t already have a programmable thermostat, installing and setting one can help you save up to 10 percent on heating and cooling costs, says the Department of Energy.

If you’re already following all of these tips and you’re still too hot, here are a couple more options: Put on a cool, damp shirt or apply a cold pack (a sandwich bag of ice cubes or a bag of frozen vegetables inside a towel work well) to your forehead and wrists.

Of course, you could just bite the bullet and turn the AC back on. We won’t judge — we promise. Just be sure you’ve replaced the air filter and serviced your unit so it’s running efficiently.

Reposted with permission from the original author, Safeco Insurance.

Read the full article at www.beinsured.com

Tips for a Safe Fourth of July — From Food to Fireworks

Thu, 02 Jul 2015 14:26:42 GMT

Memorial Day might be the unofficial start of summer, but Independence Day is when the season truly kicks into high gear. July 4 is a holiday that has something for everyone, whether you like to host (or attend) backyard barbecues, get out on the water or just hang out at home and watch the “bombs” bursting in air once the sun sets.

As you celebrate America this year, however, keep safety in mind — those fireworks aren’t the only holiday staple that can be dangerous. So, along with using plenty of sunblock and staying hydrated, follow these tips to help ensure that you, your loved ones and your friends all have a great Fourth.

Food Safety
Whether you’re hosting a gathering or attending one, you’ll want to make sure the food you’re serving — and eating — is safe. The following U.S. Department of Agriculture guidelines can help:

Cook food thoroughly. Steaks, chops and roasts (beef, pork or lamb) should have a minimum internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit before being removed from the heat source. Ground meats need to be at 160 degrees and poultry at 165.
Keep hot food hot and cold food cold. You can keep cooked meats warm by placing them to the side of the grill rack, in a warm oven or in a chafing dish. Place dishes holding cold foods on ice.
Bringing food to the party? Use an insulated cooler with ice or ice packs to minimize the growth of bacteria.

On the Road According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the July 4 holiday period ranks as the nation’s deadliest in terms of people killed by drunk drivers. So, if you’re heading somewhere to enjoy the fireworks or just driving to a friend’s get-together, plan ahead: Have a designated driver or don’t drink at all.

On the Water Spending the holiday on a boat? Lucky you. Just make sure all equipment is operating properly and that you have the right supplies on board. Here are two more recommendations from the Coast Guard:

If you’re driving the boat, don’t drink or use drugs. That should go without saying, but it’s still a problem — alcohol use is involved in about a third of all recreational boating deaths.
Everyone needs a life jacket. A boat needs a Coast Guard-approved life jacket for each person aboard. Kids need their own — adult-sized jackets will not work for them.

Fireworks Thousands of people are hurt each year by fireworks. In the month around the July 4 holiday, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, 240 people go to the emergency room daily with a fireworks-related injury. Don’t be one of them. If fireworks are legal in your area and you intend to set some off (or to be around when others are doing so), check out these quick tips for some general guidelines:

Find a safe place, and be prepared. Always have a bucket of water or a garden hose at the ready. And never point fireworks at a person, animal, home, tree or car.
Make sure adults are present. Kids should never play with fireworks.
Don’t stand too close. The most injured body parts in fireworks accidents are the hands and fingers (36 percent), head, face and ears (22 percent) and eyes (16 percent), the commission says. All are pretty important, don’t you think?

While these tips are great, perhaps the best thing about them is this: You can follow them and still have a wonderful holiday with family and friends. Here’s to America — and to you!

Reposted with permission from the original author, Safeco Insurance.

Read the full article at www.beinsured.com

Commuting by Bike: How to Get to the Office on Two Wheels

Fri, 05 Jun 2015 18:39:23 GMT

There are plenty of great reasons to bike to work: Commuters who ride save money on gas and car insurance, stay fit and help the environment (they don’t get stuck in traffic, either). And they even have fun — as long as they keep safety in mind at all times, that is.

If you’re just getting started on two wheels — or even if you’re a seasoned rider — it pays to be prepared. So, don’t just hop on your bike and hit the streets. Follow these tips to make your commute a smooth one.

(And drivers: We didn’t forget about you. Below are some tips to help you share the road.)

Plan Your Route

The best way to get to work on your bike may be different from the route you take in your car. So take a few test rides to determine on which streets you feel most comfortable. This will also help you gauge your timing. If you need some help, stop in at a local bicycle shop to ask for tips and possibly purchase a map of bicycle-friendly streets and trails.

In general, when planning your bicycle commute, try to stick to streets with bike lanes and try to stay off sidewalks – you may be fined for riding your bike on a pedestrian-only walkway.

Ride With Care

Riding in the same lanes as traffic can be intimidating — and dangerous. But, you can make it less so by following the law (yes, traffic laws apply to bicyclists, too) and the best practices promoted by the League of American Bicyclists (LAB). Here are some of the organization’s tips on being a safe and responsible cyclist:

Ride on the right. Always ride with the flow of traffic, using the rightmost lane while giving yourself room to maneuver. Don’t swerve or make sudden movements. Instead, when it’s time to turn, scan your surroundings, signal clearly and move into the lane that leads to your destination. Remember, making eye contact with drivers confirms that you can see each other.
Use the proper gear for visibility and safety. A helmet, of course, is mandatory. It’s also a good idea to wear bright clothing during the daytime and reflective gear at night. You can also increase your visibility by using a white light on the front of your bike and a red light on the back, as well as plenty of reflectors. In inclement weather, you need a proper base layer to keep you warm, along with waterproof shoes, pants, a jacket and a bag. You’ll also need to adjust your speed and riding style to account for slick roadways.
Ride alert. Many motorists do not expect to see riders in the roadway, so it’s important to be vigilant. Always be aware of your surroundings and anticipate what others around you will do next. Watch out for vehicles that are turning, and give parked cars a wide enough berth to avoid being hit by an opening door. Don’t ride directly next to another vehicle unless you are passing, and remember, if you can’t see bus, truck or car mirrors, the drivers can’t see you.

Protect Your Bicycle

A proper lock – and proper usage of that lock – can help keep your bike secure when you’re not on the road. But, the fact is bicycles are easy to steal – no key required. So take these extra steps to help protect your mode of transport:

Register your bicycle with your local police and with the National Bike Registry.
Add photos of and details about your bike to the home inventory you keep for insurance purposes. If your bike is stolen, your personal property coverage from your homeowners insurance or renters insurance may come to your aid, assuming the bike cost more than your deductible.
Consider scheduling a high-end bike on your insurance policy for broader coverage.

Share the Road With Bicycle Commuters

As harrowing as it sometimes is to ride in traffic, driving around cyclists isn’t always a picnic, either. The fact that your car is so much heavier and more powerful than a bicycle means that mistakes can be deadly.

Here are a few tips from Yield to Life, a cycling safety organization started by professional cyclist David Zabriskie (who has been hit three times while on his bike):

Expect to see cyclists on the road. Treat them as you would any other slow-moving vehicle.
Be patient. Wait to pass until it’s safe, and don’t tailgate.
Watch the turns. Whether you’re going right or left, it can create a dangerous situation when a cyclist is behind you.
Mind your doors. After you parallel park, check your mirrors and look behind you before opening your door.
Finally, be respectful. Remember that cyclists have as much of a right to the road as you do.

We can’t guarantee that you’ll always arrive on time, whether you drive or bike to work. But making an effort to share the road will help ensure that everyone arrives in one piece.

Reposted with permission from the original author, Safeco Insurance.

Read the full article at www.beinsured.com

Getting Your Boat Out of Storage and Into the Water

Fri, 01 May 2015 18:45:44 GMT

Spring is here, and you’re ready to get out on the water. But is your boat ready?

Even if you’ve kept it properly stored for the winter and protected from the elements, there are still a number of things you need to do before hitting the local lakes and rivers.

While much of your focus will be on the boat itself, don’t forget other important things, such as your trailer, your vessel registration and, of course, your insurance coverage. We can help you with that. As far as the boat and trailer, check out these tips from Discover Boating, which provides boating information and public outreach on behalf of the National Marine Manufacturers Association.

Engine and Electric

Your boat’s been sitting for a few months, so it’s not ready to zip across the water just yet. Here are a few things to check before firing up the ignition:

Make sure fuel hoses are not soft, brittle or cracked and check the system for leaks or damage. Also verify that fittings and clamps are secure.
Check all other belts, hoses and cables as well. Replace if needed.
Inspect electrical connections for corrosion and verify your battery is holding a charge.
Check all fluid levels and change or top off as needed.
Test for proper ventilation.

Propellers and Hulls

Damage to your propeller or hull can make for an unpleasant day on the water. Here are some things to look for:

Propellers that have dings or distortion. This can lead to not only an unpleasant ride due to vibration but can also damage your drive train. While securing your propeller, check that the bearings are not worn out.
Hulls with blisters or cracks. Cleaning the hull (use an environmentally safe solution) gives you a good opportunity to check for damage. While you’re at in, clean above deck, too.

Trailer

You should treat your trailer with as much care as your boat. After all, you can’t go boating if you can’t get your boat to the water.

Inspect the grease fittings on the hubs and reapply grease as needed.
Test the lights on your trailer each time before you get out on the road.
Rinse thoroughly after exposure to salt water.
Ensure your car jack will work to lift the trailer and that you will be able to loosen and tighten the lug nuts. You don’t want to be surprised when you’re on the side of the road.
Look over the trailer bunks once your boat is in the water to ensure the padding isn’t worn.

Safety Equipment

No matter how well your boat runs, you should never run it without the proper safety equipment. So take inventory of what’s on board to be sure you have:

Enough life jackets for all potential passengers. Make sure they’re in good condition, too.
Fire extinguisher. Be sure it’s the correct classification for your boat and is in working order.
Emergency position-indicating radio beacon (EPIRB) so you can be found if you get lost.
Carbon-monoxide detector if there’s an enclosed area on your boat.
Working navigation lights.

Proper preparation can mean the difference between a great day on the boat and a disastrous one. So take a little time to make this boating season a happy and safe one. Hope to see you out on the water!

Reposted with permission from the original author, Safeco Insurance.

Read the full article at www.beinsured.com

Spring Into Home Maintenance Mode in Arizona

Fri, 03 Apr 2015 15:44:26 GMT

Spring is a time for rejuvenation, and, as the weather gets warmer here in Tucson, Arizona, and the days grow longer, there's a positive energy in the air. Many people decide it's the perfect time for reorganizing and refreshing their homes, while others eagerly get to work in the yard and garden.

While it's easy to get caught up in spring cleaning and planting, this is also one of the most important times of the year for home maintenance. The beginning of Daylight Saving Time is a great time to change the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, so if you haven't done that yet, here's your reminder. It's a good idea to do a basic checkup in some other key areas, too. After all, winter can be rough on your home.

These tips, from the Department of Housing and Urban Development and others, can help. Call it "spring training" for homeowners.

Yard and Exterior

Check for signs of rodents, roaches, termites, etc.
Clean gutters and downspouts.
Trim tree branches and shrubs that are hanging too close to your home or to utility wires, and remove dead trees.
Examine your deck and/or balconies for loose boards or railings, as well as any rot.
Ensure that mulch and soil isn't in contact with your home’s siding.

Roof, Siding, Windows

Check for damage to your shingles, including mildew and algae; have a professional inspect and repair your roof, if necessary.
Go into the attic to check for signs of roof leakage, such as visible moisture or discoloration.
Look for peeling paint. Remember, paint is about more than appearance. A good paint job also protects against the effects of weather.
Check for leaks around window and door sills. Properly sealed windows and doors can help prevent damage and lower your energy costs.

Interior and Appliances

Examine your basement and/or crawlspace for any signs of standing water or dripping. Take action immediately, if needed, to avoid mold.
Clean your dryer exhaust hose and vent. Lint build-up in this area is a common cause of fires, so do a thorough job by moving the dryer and disconnecting both ends of the hose.
Clean exhaust fan outlets and screens.
Check all air filters and replace, if necessary.
Vacuum refrigerator/freezer coils to help your unit run efficiently.

These tasks will help keep you and your family safe, and they also can save you from costly repairs or homeowners insurance claims. So remember, when spring rolls around, there’s a lot more to do than cleaning and changing your clocks.

Contact Us!

At BeInsured.com, we can work with you to make sure you've got the coverage you need, while at the same time using all possible credits and discounts to make that coverage affordable.

Call us at 520-321-1818 or send us a note at info [at] beinsured [dot] com. We want to help you meet your goals, and make sure what's important to you is protected!

Reposted with permission from the original author, Safeco Insurance.

Read the full article at www.beinsured.com

How to Create Your First Garden This Spring

Fri, 06 Mar 2015 19:59:29 GMT

From genetically modified crops to the environmental and health effects of pesticides, more and more Arizona residents are questioning whether they should grow what they eat.

Wherever you stand on the issues surrounding today’s food supply, however, there are several good reasons to start your own garden:

You’ll know exactly where your food was grown, and what went into growing it.
You and your family can enjoy great-tasting vegetables — better than store-bought, some believe.
Many people find gardening provides both physical and mental benefits and gives them an opportunity to enjoy the outdoors.
Finally, there’s that sense of satisfaction that comes with eating food that you have grown yourself!

Clearly there are plenty of benefits to gardening. But, how do you get started?

Here are some important tips from the Oregon State University (OSU) Extension Service, which, like similar services around the country, provides helpful community resources on agriculture and other topics.

Pick the Right Site

“Choosing a garden site is as important as selecting the vegetables to grow in it,” according to the OSU Extension website. “All vegetables need sunlight and fertile, well-drained soil, and they will contract fewer diseases if the site has good ventilation.”

Here’s what to consider before marking your garden plot:

Sunlight. Look for a shade-free site. Vegetables need a minimum of six hours of sunshine a day.
Soil. How is the natural vegetation? If weeds and grass are healthy on the site, the soil will probably be good for vegetables, too.
Surroundings. The roots of trees and large shrubs can suck nutrients away from your vegetables.
Proximity. Make it easy on yourself, with water access nearby. Otherwise, you might be less enthusiastic about caring for your garden.

Choose What to Plant

Check with a local gardening organization or search the Web for what vegetables are best for your specific situation and climate. Here are three factors to keep in mind when you’re getting ready to plant, according to the OSU extension:

Season. Plant your seeds at the right time to avoid damage from temperatures that are too hot or too cold. Follow the instructions on the seed packet.
Depth. If you plant your seeds too shallow, they can wash away or dry out, but if they’re too deep, they might not come up at all.
Spacing. Each plant needs its share of sunlight, nutrients and water. Don’t make them fight for it! Putting seeds too close together usually results in smaller vegetables, too.

Water Wisely

The best way to water is by monitoring your garden, rather than simply adhering to a set schedule. Follow guidelines for your specific plants, and avoid these common problems:

Frequent, shallow watering. This can promote root development in surface layers of the soil, making plants very susceptible to stress and damage.
Overwatering. Yes, you can “drown” plants; too much water can leave little to no oxygen in the soil.
Postponing watering. Check your plants regularly. If they appear to need water, don’t wait.

For more specific advice on gardening in Arizona, check with the local university extension program. And, don’t worry; you don’t have to be an expert to enjoy homegrown food. You just need to be willing to put in a little time and effort — and get your hands dirty!

Read the full article at www.beinsured.com

Helping Seniors Have a Wonderful Winter

Fri, 06 Feb 2015 20:03:42 GMT

Slippery sidewalks. Freezing temperatures. Power outages. Winter isn't always a wonderland. If you regularly lend a hand to a senior friend or family member here in Arizona, it may be a good time of the year to provide some extra support. Read on to learn some ways you may be able to help.

Preventing Falls

Falls are a serious concern for everyone when conditions are slick, but especially for seniors. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one in three adults over the age of 65 falls once a year, and 20-30 percent of those falls result in decreased mobility.

That means keeping walkways—both inside and out—as clear as possible. Indoors, keep clutter and electrical cords tucked away, and provide loved ones with non-slip socks, slippers and mats.

Outdoors, keep sidewalks and driveways shoveled and de-iced. If you aren't able to do it yourself, hire someone, and check to be sure it's done in a timely manner.

If you're still worried about falls, consider having loved ones wear an electronic emergency call device.

Staying Safe at Home

Drops in body temperature or being overly hungry or thirsty can impose risk.

You can help by regularly monitoring the heat settings in seniors' homes to ensure they are warm and comfortable. Keep all furniture, decorations, blankets, newspapers and other items away from heat vents, radiators and other heat sources. And, remember that improper use of a space heater can be dangerous. Also test that fire alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are working properly, have fresh batteries, and are loud enough to hear.

When it comes to the pantry, make sure it's stocked with food and water that's within easy reach. Keep an eye on these supplies to ensure meals aren't being skipped.

In case of emergencies, also make sure non-perishable food, water, extra medications, blankets, flashlights and batteries are on hand.

Riding Out the Storm

If a storm is coming and a loved one is either physically disabled or has an impaired memory, stay overnight or arrange for someone else to do so. When it's not possible to be there physically, check in often by phone.

Staying inside during and after a winter storm is the ideal scenario for seniors, who—like most of us—shouldn't drive when it's snowy and icy. If they do require transportation, arrange it for them.

If the power goes out, be sure loved ones have a safe way to stay warm or a safe place to go.

Above all, keep in mind that the type of support your loved ones need this winter may be different from the past winter. If their health, memory, mobility or eyesight has changed dramatically in recent months, you'll want to be there for them more often. And, if they spend a lot of time alone or are less active than usual, watch for signs of seasonal affective disorder.

Remember, you know your loved ones and what they need best, so be sure to cater to their individual needs, as well as their overall health and well-being. They'll be thankful you're there for them this winter.

Contact Us!

At BeInsured.com, we can work with you to make sure you've got the coverage you need, while at the same time using all possible credits and discounts to make that coverage affordable.

Call us at 520-321-1818 or send us a note at info [at] beinsured [dot] com. We want to help you meet your goals, and make sure what's important to you is protected!

Reposted with permission from the original author, Safeco Insurance.

Read the full article at www.beinsured.com

The Right Tires for Winter Driving

Fri, 09 Jan 2015 16:30:37 GMT

It's easy to forget about your tires when it comes to vehicle safety. But with winter weather already in many parts of the country, tires are an important aspect you should keep in mind.

Your tires can be the difference between a safe trip and a disastrous one, whether you're driving a routine daily route or are headed to the mountains for some fun on the slopes. This winter tire guide will help you choose the best style of tires for your needs – and help you maintain them properly.

Are winter tires for you?
Winter tires are specially designed to provide the best traction and handling in ice, snow and cold-weather conditions. If you live in an area where temperatures regularly drop below 45 degrees Fahrenheit, it's a good idea to get a set. And note that we said "a set" – using only two winter tires instead of four can create handling issues caused by mismatched traction between the front and rear.

How are they different from all-season tires?
Winter tires have greater tread depth and use siping (slits in the tread) to increase the number of edges that are in contact with the road. They are also made using rubber compounds that stay soft when the weather gets cold, which helps to provide better traction.

What kind of winter tires is best?
There are two main categories: performance winter tires, for light snow and ice, and studless snow and ice tires, which are for severe weather conditions. The latter is the best tire for deep snow and heavy ice, says auto site Edmunds.com, unless studded tires are allowed in your area. But, while studded tires provide excellent traction on ice, you can likely get the same benefits by using chains, when necessary. And, your chains won't cause damage to the roadway like studs do, either.

How do I maintain them?
At any time of the year, tires require regular monitoring and maintenance for the best performance. But, when you're counting on them to get you through snow and ice, tire maintenance is even more important. Here are two important things to check regularly:

Pressure: Your tire pressure should be checked once a week to insure you aren't under- or over-inflated. In winter conditions, under-inflated tires increase your risk of having a blowout, and over-inflated tires can result in your car having virtually no traction.
Tread: Check your tread regularly using the "Lincoln test." Insert a penny into the groove of the tire, with the top of Lincoln's head going in first. Can you see only some of his hair? The tire has enough tread. If you see all of his hair, however, you need new tires immediately. Of course, if you're iffy on whether your tires are up for winter weather, you might just consider replacing them now – after all, the bare minimum isn't a good option unless the roads are bare, too.

As the old Michelin advertising slogan goes, "So much is riding on your tires." Take that to heart this winter, and you won't be left out in the cold.

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Reposted with permission from the original author, Safeco Insurance.

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