Millions of Americans will be traveling this holiday season, and if it’s anything like previous years, a lot of that travel will be on the road. Last year, AAA estimated that more than 100 million Americans were planning a trip of more than 50 miles during the holidays and that was just between Dec. 23 and Jan. 1.
Of course, winter weather creates a unique set of challenges on local roadways, too. So even if you’re not headed out of town, these safety tips can help you make it through the season safely.
Make sure your car is ready
Before winter arrives, and before any long trip, give your car a thorough check-up. Do wipers need to be replaced? Are your fluid levels where they should be? How are the radiator and cooling system?
If you live in an area (or visit one often) where temperatures regularly drop below 45 degrees, it’s a good idea to get a set of winter tires-they’re better suited for the cold than all-season tires, because they’re designed to provide the best traction and handling in ice and snow. Whatever you’re driving on, however, make sure your tires are inflated properly and that they have enough tread.
Your car should have an emergency kit, too. Pack it with jumper cables, blankets, a first-aid kit, flares, food and water, a flashlight, and other safety gear. A shovel and cat litter or sand are nice to have as well; they can provide traction should you get stuck.
Before you leave
If you’re going on a trip, make sure you check weather conditions along your route and take printed maps-you might not always have cell reception. Let someone know your itinerary so that if you don’t arrive on time, officials know where to look for you.
Every time you drive somewhere, even if it’s just a quick trip to the store, clear snow and ice off your car; it can be a hazard to other drivers. And don’t forget to clear your headlights and other lights.
When you’re on the road
Are roads snowy or icy? Take it slow. Take it slow. Take it slow. Give yourself extra time to get to your destination, and make sure you leave extra room between your vehicle and others. Watch for ice patches on bridges, overpasses, and shady spots. And remember, having four-wheel or all-wheel drive does not mean your car will stop (or steer) better on ice.
If you’re caught in a storm that seems like it’s too much for you to handle, seek refuge as soon as you can. Sometimes it’s best not to drive in snow and ice at all if it looks bad out there, stay home if possible.
If your vehicle becomes disabled or you get in an accident
Car trouble and accidents affect thousands of people every winter. If your vehicle is disabled, be sure to stay with it. Run your engine and heater for short intervals, and open one of your windows slightly to prevent carbon monoxide build-up. Light two flares (remember that vehicle emergency kit? Now’s the time to use it) and place one a safe distance from both the front and rear of your vehicle. Note your location with mileposts, exit numbers or cross streets and call the authorities or a tow truck.
If you’re in a crash, be careful-the aftermath of a car accident can be dangerous, especially in winter when visibility might be reduced and conditions might be slick. Check everyone involved for injuries and call 911 if necessary. After minor accidents, have everyone pull well off the road. Put out flares and turn on your hazard lights.
When you can’t move your car, stay inside unless traffic is completely clear. It’s far better for another vehicle to hit your car, even with you in it, than to hit you directly.
Wherever you may be headed this winter, we hope you enjoy the season with friends and family. Here’s to a healthy and happy holiday!
Source: https://www.safeco.com/blog/safe-winter-driving
Make Your Beach Day SAFE!
Ahh – The beach! We love the water, the sand, the sun and the family time to unwind and have FUN!
Staying safe at the beach is very important. Weather and water conditions can change rapidly. In the blink of an eye someone could be caught in a rip-current.
Be sure to:
● Follow all beach rules and regulations.
● Swim only in areas where there are life guards.
● Avoid drinking or the overconsumption of alcohol, especially if you’re swimming or boating.
● Keep an eye on your children at all times.
● Safely secure all umbrellas in place to prevent injury to yourself or others.
At the beach, it’s important to find and follow posted signs and flags. This is for your safety. And as your insurance agent, we strongly encourage you to do so!
There may be lifeguards or other beach patrol officers on duty. They may make announcements over a loudspeaker, or you can ask them about beach conditions.
Follow their guidance and instructions. This applies to when you’re on the sand or in the water. They are there to help keep your family safe and ensure everyone has a good time.
You can typically find beach rules posted at the entrance or near the lifeguard stand or tower. The following are rules that you may see posted:
● Look for flags set up on the beach
● Know where lifeguard stations are
● Look for signs and postings near the entrance or lifeguard tower
● Talk with lifeguards for tips and information about the beach and water conditions
Everyone in your party should be a strong swimmer. They should also have experience swimming in the ocean or other large body of water before entering the water.
Beach safety swimming courses may be available at your local Red Cross chapter or YMCA.
When you enter the water, always go in feet first. Avoid diving. Don’t dive off of cliffs, bridges, or other high surfaces.
Swimming in the ocean or a large body of water is different than swimming in a pool or most small lakes. You’ll need to watch out for:
● tides and undercurrents
● unexpected changes
● water depths at drop-offs
● rocks, debris, and other hazards and obstacles
● whether there’s local marine life that can sting or bite
● boats, ships, and other watercraft that may be in the water at the same time
● bad weather in the area, such as lightning or thunderstorms
● tsunami warnings
Please watch these Beach Safety Tips from the American Red Cross!
Whether you live close or far from the beach, swimming in the ocean is almost certainly part of most families’ summer plans. While some prefer to stay in the sand, many of those visiting the beach plan on going for a swim in the salty waves. The ocean can be a great time filled with laughter and fun if you follow the proper safety guidelines. Engaging in unsafe or reckless behavior could put you or a family member in a potentially disastrous situation.
If you decide to purchase a home at the beach, we can insure it. If you decide to take a trip to the beach, we can insure your trip. Have a great, fun, summer!
Source: https://www.healthline.com/health-news/going-to-beach-pool-what-to-know-covid19-risk and https://www.guard.com/blog/2019/07/17/beach-safety/
National Safe Boating Week: Staying safe on the waters this Memorial Day
Water Safety: How to Stay Safe in Pools, Lakes, and Oceans
Water can be a great source of fun and relaxation, but it can also be dangerous if you don’t take proper precautions. Whether swimming in a pool, lake, or ocean, it’s important to be aware of potential hazards and to take steps to stay safe. Here are some tips for water safety that you should keep in mind.
1.Learn to Swim
The first and most important step to staying safe in the water is to learn to swim. Everyone should learn to swim, regardless of age or ability. If you need to learn how to swim, enroll in a swim class to learn the basics. Even if you’re already a strong swimmer, it’s a good idea to brush up on your skills and take a refresher course occasionally.
2.Never Swim Alone
Never swim alone, whether in a pool, lake, or ocean. Always have someone with you who can keep an eye on you and call for help if necessary. If you’re swimming in a public place, make sure there’s a lifeguard on duty.
3.Know Your Limits
It’s important to know your limits when it comes to swimming. Don’t push yourself too hard or try to swim too far if you’re not a strong swimmer. If you’re tired, take a break and rest. Please don’t drink alcohol before swimming, as it can impair your judgment and reaction time.
4.Check the Water Conditions
Before swimming, always check the water conditions. If you’re swimming in a pool, make sure the water is clear, and the pool is properly maintained. If swimming in a lake or ocean, check for signs of pollution, strong currents, or dangerous marine life. Don’t swim in areas that are marked as off-limits.
5.Wear a Life Jacket
If you’re boating or kayaking, always wear a life jacket. Even if you’re a strong swimmer, a life jacket can help you stay afloat if you become tired or injured. Make sure your life jacket fits properly and is in good condition.
6.Stay Hydrated
Staying hydrated is essential when you’re swimming, especially in hot weather. Drink plenty of water before, during, and after swimming to avoid dehydration. Please don’t drink alcohol or caffeine, as they can dehydrate you.
7.Know What to Do in an Emergency
Finally, it’s important to know what to do in an emergency. If someone is in trouble in the water, call for help immediately. If you’re a strong swimmer and you feel comfortable doing so, try to help the person while you wait for help to arrive. If you’re not a strong swimmer, don’t attempt a rescue yourself, as you could put yourself in danger.
In conclusion, water can be a great source of fun and relaxation, but it can also be dangerous if you don’t take proper precautions. By following these tips for water safety, you can help ensure that you and your loved ones stay safe in the water. Always be aware of potential hazards and take steps to stay safe.
Home Fire Escape Plans
Fire can spread rapidly through your home, leaving you as little as one or two minutes to escape safely once the smoke alarm sounds. Your ability to get out of your home during a fire depends on advance warning from smoke alarms and advance planning.
Why do you need a home escape plan?
In the event of a fire, time is the biggest enemy and every second counts. In less than 30 seconds, a small flame can turn into a major fire. Having an escape plan will help you and your family to get out of your home quickly. Practice E.D.I.T.H. — Exit Drills in the Home — with your family.
A closed door may slow the spread of smoke, heat, and fire. Install smoke alarms in every sleeping room and outside each separate sleeping area. Install alarms on every level of the home. Walk through your home and inspect all possible exits and escape routes. Pull together everyone in your household and make a plan. Below are guidelines on how to write your home fire escape plan. As your insurance agent, we strongly encourage you to follow these steps and create a plan for your own home.
meeting place.
According to an NFPA survey, only one of every three American households have actually developed and practiced a home fire escape plan. While 71% of Americans have an escape plan in case of a fire, only 45% of those have practiced it. One-third of American households who made an estimate thought they would have at least 6 minutes before a fire in their home would become life-threatening. The time available is often less. And only 8% said their first thought on hearing a smoke alarm would be to get out!
Taking time to review these safety precautions and write your home fire escape plan might just save a life! We look forward to helping keep you and your family safe by providing the insurance coverage for all your home needs. You can reach us by phone or online. A.C. Marmo & Sons at https://www.acmarmo.com/homeowners-renters-condo-insurance/ or call us at Fairfield Office at (973) 340-9100 or Lavallette Office at (732) 793-7530
Source:
https://www.nfpa.org/-/media/Files/FPW/Educate/2019/FPW19Grid.ashx
https://fire.arlingtonva.us/safety/escape-plans/
https://www.nfpa.org/Public-Education/Staying-safe/Preparedness/Escape-planning
https://www.gohealthuc.com/library/does-your-family-have-fire-escape-plan
https://www.mass.gov/service-details/create-and-practice-a-home-escape-plan
What is Business Owner’s Insurance and When Do You Need It?
Your company may need insurance to survive certain unexpected—but possible—challenges. Nobody likes buying insurance. It can be confusing and expensive, and you won’t see any benefit unless you have a loss, accident, or claim. But insurance can make or break your business. Without the right insurance, a theft or fire can cause devastating losses. A personal injury lawsuit can leave you struggling just to pay the legal fees and yet many small business owners don’t take the time to evaluate their needs and get appropriate coverage.
Business Owner’s Insurance, also known as a business owner policy (BOP), combines protection for all major property and liability risks in one insurance package. This type of policy assembles the basic coverages required by a business owner in one bundle. However, it is usually sold at a premium that is less than the total cost of the individual coverage. BOPs include:
BOPs do NOT cover professional liability, auto insurance, worker’s compensation, or health and disability insurance. You’ll need separate insurance policies to cover professional services, vehicles, and your employees. To decide whether you need business insurance, ask yourself two questions:
If you answered “yes” to either of these questions, business insurance will help you minimize your risks.
However, not all businesses qualify for business owner’s policies. Eligibility requirements differ among providers. Insurance providers may have requirements regarding business location, the size of the location, revenue, and class of business. Typically, businesses classes eligible for BOPs include retail stores, apartment buildings, small restaurants, and office-based businesses.
The key takeaways to BOPs:
Contact A.C. Marmo & Sons at https://www.acmarmo.com/business-insurance/ or call us at Fairfield Office at (973) 340-9100 or Lavallette Office at (732) 793-7530 today to discuss your Business Insurance needs with an agent!
Source: https://www.iii.org/article/what-does-businessowners-policy-bop-cover and https://www.investopedia.com/terms/business-owners-policy.asp and https://www.legalzoom.com/articles/business-insurance-when-you-need-it-and-when-you-dont
How to Change a Tire
Knowing how to change a tire is a necessary skill for all drivers. You might be thinking, “I pay for a AAA membership so that I get roadside assistance and don’t have to worry,” or “I have a cell phone, I can just call someone to help.” Even if this is the case for most situations, there are still plenty of situations where these reasons don’t cover you. At A.C. Marmo & Sons, your friends, and your family’s safety on the road is very important to us.
WHY SHOULD YOU KNOW HOW TO FIX A FLAT TIRE?
In this day and age, we depend heavily on our cell phones, but cell service doesn’t always cover what it says it will. Landscape, weather, the locations of antennas and the cell network capacity all play a factor in you getting your service when you need it.
Even more serious would be finding yourself in a remote, secluded area with a flat tire. People can be dangerous, so we recommend getting help from a source you trust, if possible, like your roadside assistance. But sometimes roadside assistance cannot reach you within a reasonable amount of time. If you’re out on the road, it may take several hours to get help. In the meantime, you are putting yourself at risk by staying in this spot.
Other danger factors include weather conditions and where you had to park your vehicle (like a spot that slows down or blocks traffic). This isn’t to mention if you are in a rush: say you are on the way to an important meeting or need to catch a flight – knowing how to change the tire yourself can get you back on the road quickly.
Aside from saving time, you might save yourself some money. If you don’t have roadside assistance or a friend who can help, your only other option may be to call a towing company to take it to a nearby repair shop. Needless to say, this is much more time and money than simply doing the job yourself.
Thankfully, changing a tire isn’t all that hard! Just adhere to the following guidelines to be prepared in case you have a flat.
ITEMS YOU’LL NEED TO FIX A FLAT TIRE
These items should have come with your vehicle: jack, lug wrench, fully inflated spare tire, and a vehicle owner’s manual.
If you have misplaced any of these items, or if your car did not come with these items, you should purchase new ones right away. And be sure you’re regularly inflating the spare tire to your vehicle manufacturer’s recommended PSI. You should check the spare’s air pressure every time you check your other tires. Remember to check pressure every month and before long trips or carrying extra load.
Here are some items that don’t come with your vehicle but that you should stow in your trunk or glove box in case you have to change a flat tire: flashlight with working batteries, rain poncho, small cut of 2″x6” wood to secure the jack, gloves, and wheel wedges.
HOW TO CHANGE A TIRE
The long and short of this process can be found in the list below. For a full video on step-by-step directions, visit Bridgestone Tires.
At A.C. Marmo & Sons, your road safety is very important to us. Call us at Fairfield Office (973) 340-9100 Lavallette Office (732) 793-7530 or visit our website at https://www.acmarmo.com/auto-insurance/ to discuss your auto insurance needs. We can provide coverage from many insurance carriers so you receive the insurance for your budget and needs!
Source: https://www.bridgestonetire.com/tread-and-trend/drivers-ed/how-to-change-a-flat-tire#
Why It’s Important to Replace Your Roof for Your Homeowners Insurance
Whether it’s raining, hailing, or windy outside, your roof takes the brunt of all the harsh elements. However, if your roof has been neglected and isn’t in tip-top shape when bad weather hits, then you could be putting your home at risk for leaks or other potential severe damage. If your roof is old, faulty, or on its last leg, your home may be categorized as high risk. This also means you may be paying a higher premium for your policy. Here, we’ll review what’s typically covered for roof damages and why a new roof could decrease your homeowners insurance.
Keeping your roof well-maintained is a general best practice to avoid extensive repairs or premature replacements of your roof. Typically, insurance policies may cover the following roof damages:
• Rain
• Hail
• Wind
• Fire
• Fallen objects
• Hurricanes
• Tornadoes
Some insurance companies will provide discounts to homeowners after they’ve installed a new roof. An asphalt shingle roof that’s 15 years old is more prone to leaks simply due to the fact that it’s near the end of its lifespan and has taken the brunt of 15 years of weather. For this reason, older roofs can be categorized as high-risk since homeowners are more likely to file a claim for damage, which results in a higher insurance premium.
On the other hand, a newer roof is less likely to be susceptible to weather damage simply due to the fact that it’s new. Different states and different insurance companies have their own discounts for new roofs, so you’ll want to consult with your insurance agent to determine how much of a discount you can receive as each insurance company has its own set of requirements for what qualifies for a new-roof discount.
Getting homeowners insurance will allow you to protect your home in the case of unexpected damages during storms or inclement weather. However, the price of protection can be hefty if you have an older roof. Some insurance companies will offer discounts for new roofs simply because it’s a new roof that hasn’t taken the brunt of ever-changing weather. In addition, some insurance companies will offer discounts for impact-resistant roofs. Fortunately, new technological advances in the roofing industry have allowed manufacturers to develop roofs that can withstand high winds, are resistant to moisture-related growth, and are resistant to impact from falling tree branches. Contact (Agency Name) at (phone number) or visit our website at (homeowners insurance link) to see how your homeowners insurance policy is affected if you decide it’s time to get a new roof.
Source: https://www.stateroofing.com/blog/roofing/why-a-new-roof-will-decrease-your-homeowners-insurance/
Safe Driving in Winter Weather
Millions of Americans will be traveling this holiday season, and if it’s anything like previous years, a lot of that travel will be on the road. Last year, AAA estimated that more than 100 million Americans were planning a trip of more than 50 miles during the holidays and that was just between Dec. 23 and Jan. 1.
Of course, winter weather creates a unique set of challenges on local roadways, too. So even if you’re not headed out of town, these safety tips can help you make it through the season safely.
Make sure your car is ready
Before winter arrives, and before any long trip, give your car a thorough check-up. Do wipers need to be replaced? Are your fluid levels where they should be? How are the radiator and cooling system?
If you live in an area (or visit one often) where temperatures regularly drop below 45 degrees, it’s a good idea to get a set of winter tires-they’re better suited for the cold than all-season tires, because they’re designed to provide the best traction and handling in ice and snow. Whatever you’re driving on, however, make sure your tires are inflated properly and that they have enough tread.
Your car should have an emergency kit, too. Pack it with jumper cables, blankets, a first-aid kit, flares, food and water, a flashlight, and other safety gear. A shovel and cat litter or sand are nice to have as well; they can provide traction should you get stuck.
Before you leave
If you’re going on a trip, make sure you check weather conditions along your route and take printed maps-you might not always have cell reception. Let someone know your itinerary so that if you don’t arrive on time, officials know where to look for you.
Every time you drive somewhere, even if it’s just a quick trip to the store, clear snow and ice off your car; it can be a hazard to other drivers. And don’t forget to clear your headlights and other lights.
When you’re on the road
Are roads snowy or icy? Take it slow. Take it slow. Take it slow. Give yourself extra time to get to your destination, and make sure you leave extra room between your vehicle and others. Watch for ice patches on bridges, overpasses, and shady spots. And remember, having four-wheel or all-wheel drive does not mean your car will stop (or steer) better on ice.
If you’re caught in a storm that seems like it’s too much for you to handle, seek refuge as soon as you can. Sometimes it’s best not to drive in snow and ice at all if it looks bad out there, stay home if possible.
If your vehicle becomes disabled or you get in an accident
Car trouble and accidents affect thousands of people every winter. If your vehicle is disabled, be sure to stay with it. Run your engine and heater for short intervals, and open one of your windows slightly to prevent carbon monoxide build-up. Light two flares (remember that vehicle emergency kit? Now’s the time to use it) and place one a safe distance from both the front and rear of your vehicle. Note your location with mileposts, exit numbers or cross streets and call the authorities or a tow truck.
If you’re in a crash, be careful-the aftermath of a car accident can be dangerous, especially in winter when visibility might be reduced and conditions might be slick. Check everyone involved for injuries and call 911 if necessary. After minor accidents, have everyone pull well off the road. Put out flares and turn on your hazard lights.
When you can’t move your car, stay inside unless traffic is completely clear. It’s far better for another vehicle to hit your car, even with you in it, than to hit you directly.
Wherever you may be headed this winter, we hope you enjoy the season with friends and family. Here’s to a healthy and happy holiday!
Source: https://www.safeco.com/blog/safe-winter-driving
Homeowners Insurance Facts
When you decide you want to buy your first home, homeowners insurance may not be the first thing you think about. However, most mortgage lenders require you to have homeowners insurance before they will approve your loan. There are a few things you should know about homeowners insurance.
Certain losses are excluded from most homeowners insurance policies. Standard homeowners insurance policies don’t cover floods or earthquakes. If you want coverage for flood or earthquake damage, you will need separate policies for those. If you are in a flood zone, your mortgage lender may require you to purchase flood insurance.
We all know that our credit score is important for many things. Did you know it can also affect your homeowners insurance premium? Some states have banned this practice; however, in most cases your credit score can affect your insurance premium. The better your credit rating, the lower your premium. So while you’re spiffing up your credit rating to get a good deal on your mortgage loan, you should maintain a good rating to save money on your homeowners insurance.
Poor home maintenance may cause a claim to be denied. Not all damages are covered by homeowners insurance. If the damage that occurred to your home is due to your failure to properly maintain your home, your claim may be denied. When it comes to home maintenance, don’t be a procrastinator!
While you are living in your new home, you will acquire new valuables, personal possessions, and may do some home improvements. You should always report these to us right away so we can ensure your coverage is sufficient for your investment. Enjoy your new home, you deserve it!
Source: https://www.hsh.com/first-time-homebuyer/facts-about-home-insurance.html
Rideshare Insurance for Uber and Lyft Drivers
On average, the roughly 1.5 million to 2 million people in the U.S. who drive for both Uber and Lyft earn $18.15 an hour before expenses. Just one car accident, though, could easily eat up that money—and more. That’s why Uber and Lyft drivers likely need separate rideshare insurance to supplement both personal auto insurance and the coverage that’s automatically provided by rideshare companies. A driver’s financial stability could ride on whether they’ve got rideshare insurance.
To understand the insurance for rideshare driving, it’s important to know the three phases while a rideshare app is on:
1. Available: The driver is available to pick up a passenger.
2. En route: The driver has accepted a ride and is on the way to pick up the passenger.
3. On the trip: The driver has picked up the passenger and is on the way to the passenger’s destination.
When an Uber or Lyft driver’s rideshare app is off, their personal auto insurance applies. But when the app is on, Uber and Lyft provide some coverage on the driver’s behalf. Personal auto coverage typically excludes rideshare trips. That’s because your auto insurance company has priced the policy assuming you’re driving yourself, relatives and/or friends, and that you aren’t earning money from private trips and putting a lot of extra miles on your car.
As a result, a rideshare driver’s personal auto policy typically won’t supply coverage while you’re making rideshare trips. A rideshare driver might be happy with the insurance provided by the rideshare company, especially if the driver carries only the minimum personal auto insurance required by the state. In those cases, a million dollars in liability coverage from Uber can look like a major bonus.
But, there can still be gaps, which is where rideshare insurance comes in. For example, rideshare companies don’t provide collision or comprehensive insurance when the app is on and the driver is waiting for a ride request. And a personal auto policy that includes collision and comprehensive likely won’t cover that period. So, if you accidentally back into a pole, you’d have no insurance for the damage. Without additional rideshare coverage from their personal auto insurer, drivers may find their existing coverage may not apply to a loss that occurs while they are acting as a rideshare driver.
We can provide coverage from many insurance carriers so you receive the insurance for your budget and needs!
Source: https://www.forbes.com/advisor/car-insurance/rideshare-insurance/