Halloween Insurance Tips

It's October and that means that Halloween is on it’s way!  We love any excuse to celebrate around the office. However, I wouldn't be a good insurance agent if I didn't give a few good liability insurance tips too.

You've heard most Halloween advice over and over.

Pack a flashlight for when it gets dark.

Put reflective tape on children's costumes.

Check the kid's candy before letting them eat any.

But what about the risks at your home?

Your Homeowners Insurance covers you if someone is injured on your property. But there are a few things you can do to prevent accidents before they happen!

1. Change your lightbulbs. Is your porch light burned out? What about lights along sidewalks? Good lightning will help prevent children (and adults) from tripping.

2. Clear hazards. Tree limbs in your yard? A hole you've been meaning to fill? These are all potential hazards that could cause an injury and subject you to a liability claim. Clean them up before you have people trick-or-treating at your home!

3. No open flames. While candle filled pumpkins are fun to make, they can be dangerous too. If you use any open flame candles, make sure they are up high and away from any loose costume pieces.

And the easiest way to protect yourself? Make sure you have plenty of liability insurance! Call us today to schedule a free review and detailed explanation of how we can keep your home and family protected.

The Snowbird’s Guide to Winterizing Your Home

Before we know it will be that time of year to pack up and go south for the winter to escape the New England winter’s fury. Here are some tips to start thinking about before you leave for securing your home while you’re gone:

•Turn the heat down but keep it high enough so that you won’t end up with frozen pipes that could burst

•Set programmable timers for the lights and television so that it appears that you are still living in the home

•Lock all windows and doors, including the inside garage door to the house, and place steel bars in slider doors

•Give a trusted friend or neighbor a key and ask them to check the house periodically

•Arrange to have the snow cleared from your sidewalk and driveway

•Ask your neighbor to park in your driveway periodically

•Add motion-detecting security lights outside

•Make sure your gutters are cleaned to prevent ice damns damage while you’re gone